What is a “macchiato” traditionally made of?

A macchiato is traditionally made of a shot of espresso with a small amount of milk or foam. The term "macchiato" itself means "stained" or "marked" in Italian, which reflects the preparation method where the espresso is "marked" with a small amount of milk. This allows the robust flavor of the espresso to remain prominent while still adding a touch of creaminess from the milk or foam. This balance highlights the unique characteristics of the espresso without being overwhelmed by milk, making the macchiato a preferred choice for coffee aficionados who enjoy the distinct taste of coffee.