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Have you ever stood in front of the menu at the coffee shop dumbfounded by all the options? What is a cappuccino versus a latte compared to mocha? You are overwhelmed by the coffee concoctions, flavors, and sizes. Consequently, you settle for a black coffee topped off with some 2% milk. You can also see many delicious coffee drinks at Dutch Bros.

Knowing the difference between common specialty coffee drinks will open up a whole new world.

Espresso is a concentrated coffee. A machine is used to force nearly-boiling water through finely-ground coffee beans. The pressure used to make espresso produces an aromatic shot-glass size serving of coffee in under 30 seconds. 

Coffee beans of any variety can be used to make espresso; robusta or arabica being the most popular. Ground coffee, compared to beans, is more exposed to oxygen in the air that breaks down the acids, aromatics, and oils. For this reason, to maximize the flavor of coffee or espresso, beans should never been ground until they are ready for use.

When brewed, the espresso shot will naturally be covered with a light foam called “crema”. Under the crema is a rich velvety shot of coffee that can be enjoyed as is or used to create a specialty coffee drink.

 

2oz espresso, 2oz steamed milk, 2oz foamed milk

Cappuccinos are known the world over. They were created in Italy over a hundred years ago, shortly after the invention of the espresso machine. 

Switch up your cappuccino and make it “dry” by replacing the steamed milk with extra foamed milk. 

2oz espresso, 10 steamed milk, .05oz milk foam

A latte is the smoothest and milkiest of specialty coffee drinks. These drinks blend well with flavored syrups. 

2oz espresso, 2oz chocolate, 1oz steamed milk

Variations of a mocha include a mocha latte and mochaccino. A mocha latte is made by adding chocolate syrup to the basic latte recipe. Top off a cappuccino with shaved chocolate or drizzled chocolate syrup for a mochaccino.

2oz espresso, 3oz hot water

An ideal Americano is made by added the water on top of the espresso and layer of crema. This method smooths out the espresso flavor.

Fun fact: Americanos originated during WWII when American soldiers watered down the European espresso in an attempt to mimic the drip coffee they enjoyed at home. 

2oz espresso, dot of foamed milk

A true macchiato contains no caramel syrup, contrary to what some coffee shop chains may advertise. Macchiatos are also traditionally a small serving. For this reason, ordering a macchiato at a specialty boutique coffee shop will provide a completely different drink. 

Most coffee shops offer a variety of milk options for use in your drink. The default milk used at Starbucks for espresso drinks is 2%. Feel free to request skim or whole milk based on your preference. 

If you have a dairy allergy or intolerance, ask if almond or soy milk is available.

Switch up your latte routine by changing the flavor. Coffee syrups add flavor and a bit of sweetness. Opt for peppermint syrup on cold winter days or sugar-free vanilla for a classic vibe.

Spice up your coffee game with a specialty espresso drink. Try a cappuccino one day and a latte the next. Discover your new favorite drink with coffee-brewing-methods.com