What characterizes a macchiato?

A macchiato is characterized by being an espresso-based drink that has a small amount of foamed milk added to it. This milk creates a contrast with the strong flavor of the espresso, achieving a balance that enhances the coffee's characteristics without overwhelming them. The term "macchiato" itself means "stained" or "spotted" in Italian, which reflects how just a splash or dollop of milk is added to the espresso.

The option describing espresso with a layer of whipped cream suggests a different type of beverage typically associated with desserts, rather than the traditional macchiato. Brewed coffee with flavored syrup does not align with the espresso-focused nature of a macchiato, as it typically features espresso rather than brewed coffee. Lastly, espresso served in a large mug does not accurately describe the macchiato, which is usually a more concentrated and smaller drink. Thus, the small amount of foamed milk added to the espresso is what distinctly defines a macchiato.