Coffee lovers rejoice! We’ve all been there – wanting to join the ‘espresso club’ but being too intimidated by the sheer number of espresso drinks to order.
And rightfully so! Espresso is being used as a base to create a myriad of delicious and unique drinks. This versatility only adds to its insane popularity, given that 32 percent of coffee drinkers prefer espresso to anything else.
From Americano to cappuccino to Zebra Mocha, this A-Z guide will let you know everything about the different espresso drinks, including how to tell the difference and how to make them yourself.
What Is Espresso?
Simply put, espresso is strong black coffee made from finely ground beans brewed with pressure. But what makes it unique?
It’s all in the process; the brewing system extracts more flavor from the beans than other methods, giving it a bold and intense taste that can be used to create an array of incredible caffeinated drinks.
What are the Different Types of Espresso Drinks?
Are you a coffee connoisseur looking to spice up your life? Or do you just want to know what options are out there? Well, consider this your espresso drinks 101!
You can try them one at a time, then pick your favorites!
Americano
Ah, the Americano— a classic espresso drink that’s been around since at least the 1930s. Those who are fans of a smooth and strong cup of coffee will love this one, as it features two shots of espresso topped with hot water.
To prepare this classic beverage, all you have to do is brew a double espresso shot and add it to a cup of hot water. Don’t forget to add additional flavors for that typical americano feel!
Caffe Latte
Are you a creamy coffee lover? You know, the type who loves some nice, smooth, foamed milk in your cup. Then may we introduce you to the godfather of all creamy coffee drinks, the caffe latte!
So the coffee latte is basically a well-known coffee drink of Italian origin and is made using steamed milk and a shot of espresso.
Here’s how you can prepare a delicious cup of Caffe Latte: How to Make a Latte (Caffe Latte) | Perfect Coffee
Cappuccino
Cappuccino is like a hug in a cup with its creamy foam layer that makes it feel like you’re drinking a warm cloud.
And while you may think that it takes a barista to make one of these classic Italian drinks just right, it turns out anyone can make the perfect cappuccino with the right tips.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Use freshly-ground espresso and heat your milk until it is steaming but not boiling.
- Add an espresso shot for every cappuccino you’re making to your cup.
- Next, using either a steam wand or handheld frother, froth your milk and pour it over the espresso shot in a circular motion until there’s an even layer of foam on top of your cappuccino.
- Add ingredients like cinnamon or caramel syrup for added flavor, plus one last sprinkling of cocoa powder for garnish!
And there you have it—a delicious, creamy cappuccino.
Macchiato
You can say that the classic macchiato is the espresso drink of espresso drinks. It has a strong, bittersweet flavor that goes perfectly with a good book. Now, if you’re wondering how to make one of these gems, you’ll need one shot of dark roast espresso.
This is where it gets interesting—use a steaming wand to create a thin foam layer with the milk for your macchiato, about half the size of your espresso shot.
If you’re feeling daring and have extra time, try playing with flavor by adding a dash of nutmeg, cinnamon, or cocoa powder.
If you’re feeling extra fancy and want to add extra sweetness to your macchiato, you can top it off with cream or non-dairy creamer.
The cream is optional; your classic macchiato will taste just as delicious without it!
Flat White
If you’re looking for a classic espresso drink with a modern twist, then the flat white is something you will love. A coffee house favorite, this drink is similar to a latte but with less foam and more flavor. Here’s how to make one:
- Start by heating up two ounces of milk in a steaming pitcher until it reaches 150 F.
- Use an espresso machine to pull two shots into the cup.
- Pour the steamed milk into the cup and stir gently until the mixture is creamy and even.
- Complete your masterpiece with a thin layer of delicate foam on top, lightly dust it with a touch of cinnamon, and you have one super smooth flat white!
The beauty of this beverage lies in its simplicity – no fancy syrups or extra flavors needed. Just pure coffee flavor that’ll have your taste buds singing for days.
Affogato
Love ice cream? Love coffee? The Affogato has got you covered. It’s one of those rare Italian treats you can make in just minutes, and it’s easy on the eyes, too.
Here’s how to make this creamy, dreamy delight:
- Start with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, preferably with more than one flavor, like a rocky road or mint chocolate chip.
- Pour a single or double shot of espresso on top.
- Drizzle with some caramel or chocolate syrup.
- Top off with a dash of grated nuts for crunch and a dollop of whipped cream.
And there you have it! Your Affogato is ready to be served and enjoyed.
Magic Coffee
Do you ever wish to wave a magic wand and summon the perfect cup of coffee? Enter magic coffee: a heavenly brew that’ll leave you asking, “Where have you been all my life?”
To make a Magic Coffee, all you need to do is brew two shots of espresso and add half an ounce of Torani White Chocolate Syrup and stir until dissolved.
Next, slowly pour the steamed whole milk blend, and abracadabra! Your magic potion is ready.
Lungo
Lungo is like the espresso shot that keeps going—or wants to. It shares the same intensity as the espresso but with much more water thrown into the mix.
Start by pulling an espresso shot for about 10-15 seconds, which should give you about 1 ounce of liquid. What makes the difference is you need to continue running the espresso slowly and steadily for another 20-30 seconds, adding an extra ounce of hot water.
Once you’ve achieved your 2 ounces, voilà! You’ve got yourself a lovely lungo.
Ristretto
Ah, the Ristretto. It’s like the espresso’s doppelgänger—shorter but not weaker. Think of it as a concentrated espresso shot with less water, making a stronger and more intense flavor.
A two-second shot yields a more robust flavor because of the higher coffee and water ratio. So if a traditional espresso shot feels like drinking Italian sunshine, then a ristretto is Italian lightning in a cup!
Start with some freshly ground coffee and tamp it into the portafilter basket. Next, put the portafilter in the Espresso machine, and within a few seconds, you will get a delicious cup of Ristretto.
Here’s how you can quickly make a Ristretto: Coffee Recipes | How to make a ristretto coffee at home.
Breve
What if cappuccino and latte had a lovechild? Well, that’s what you’d get in a Breve. Like many espresso drinks, it takes just three ingredients—espresso, steamed milk, and a hint of foam. Think of it as an Americanized version of the Italian latte, just creamier and richer.
- Start by heating milk on the stove until it reaches a simmer.
- Then, pour the espresso into a cup and add steamed milk.
- Finally, top off the drink with a dollop of whipped cream or with some chocolate shavings or flavored syrups to finish it off.
Enjoy your delicious Breve!
Cortado
If you’re looking for a punchy pick-me-up, we have just the espresso drink for you—the cortado. This well-crafted espresso is made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk, making it the perfect combination of bold and creamy.
Here’s how we prepare Cortado at home: Easy Cortado Recipe
Doppio
If you’re a fan of stronger-tasting espresso, then this one’s for you. It’s basically two espressos at once, straight up, with no milk or added ingredients.
Doppio is a double shot espresso in a small cup, with the brewing ratio of a single shot of espresso. If you are making it yourself, aim for 25 mL of total liquid espresso output, which should take around 20-30 seconds to brew.
Serve it without milk or other types of creamers and sweeteners.
Corretto
No matter your taste buds, you’ll love the Corretto— and it won’t take you more than a few seconds to make. It’s like an espresso shot with a kick, but not the kind of kick that will leave you reeling.
To make a Corretto, heat some milk, brew an espresso shot, and pour it into a cup. Next, add the milk to the cup and some grappa or brandy. Finally, you can top it off with a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Here’s how we make Corretto at home: Corretto at home
The Corretto is perfect for those who like espresso but find it too bitter.
Romano
Ah yes, the Romano—the espresso drink that will turn heads wherever you order it. With this one, it’s all about the presentation.
This is why it’s no wonder that some people think ordering a Romano is like casting a spell.
To make this magical drink, prepare the usual shot of Espresso. Next, dip a lemon rind for the citrus flavor and finish it with two teaspoons of sugar.
Now you have your Romano! Be sure to show off the beautiful lemon twist on top when you serve it.
Marocchino
As the name implies, a Marocchino is an espresso-based drink that you can’t even begin to pronounce correctly.
But don’t fret; it’s easier to make than you think! All you need is an espresso shot, cocoa powder, and frothed milk—or, as we call it, the holy trinity of tasty drinks.
Here’s how you can prepare a Marocchino easily at home: Marocchino Recipe
Conclusion
So, if you are looking for an innovative way to enjoy your daily cup of joe, look no further than our amazing collection of espresso drinks.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic espresso or looking to try something new and exotic, there’s something for everyone. From Americanos to Zabagliones, your caffeine-filled options are endless, so grab a cup of your favorite espresso and explore!
FAQ
1. What drink has 2 shots of espresso?
Coffee with two espresso shots is called a Doppio. It is also called the black eye, and three shots are called a dead eye.
2. What drink is 1 shot of espresso?
A ristretto is a single shot of espresso. A ristretto is so rich that many baristas will serve it with a glass of sparkling water to drink in between sips.
3. What is an espresso with cold milk called?
An espresso with cold milk is commonly referred to as an ‘Iced Latte.’ Making an Iced Latte is as simple as combining a shot of espresso with cold milk and ice.