A Complete Guide to 21 Types of Espresso Drinks

Espresso is the foundation for a wide variety of delicious coffee beverages enjoyed around the world. From the pure and powerful espresso shot to creamy cappuccinos and indulgent mochas, there are many ways to enjoy this concentrated elixir. In this complete guide, we'll dive deep into 21 different types of espresso drinks, exploring their unique characteristics, ingredients, and preparation methods. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or a curious beginner, read on to discover your new favorite espresso beverage.

What is Espresso?

Espresso is a highly concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans. The result is a thick, rich liquid with a layer of crema on top. Espresso has a bolder, more intense flavor compared to drip coffee due to its unique brewing process and higher concentration.

Key characteristics of espresso include:

• Highly concentrated (1 oz serving)
• Brewed under pressure (7-10 bars)
• Fine grind size
• 25-30 second extraction time
• Topped with a layer of crema

With its powerful flavor in a small package, espresso serves as the base for many popular coffee drinks that balance its intensity with steamed milk, foam, and various flavorings.

21 Types of Espresso Drinks

1. Espresso (Single or Double Shot)

The foundation of it all, an espresso is simply a shot of concentrated coffee served on its own. A single shot uses 7-9g of ground coffee and yields about 1 oz of liquid, while a double shot uses 14-18g of coffee for a 2 oz drink.

2. Ristretto

A ristretto is a "restricted" espresso shot that uses the same amount of ground coffee but half the water, resulting in a more concentrated drink around 15-20 mL. It has a sweeter, richer flavor compared to a standard espresso.

3. Lungo

The opposite of a ristretto, a lungo is a "long" espresso shot that uses twice as much water, resulting in a larger drink around 60 mL. The flavor is slightly more diluted and bitter than a standard espresso.

4. Americano

An Americano combines a shot of espresso with hot water to approximate the strength and serving size of drip coffee. The typical ratio is 1 part espresso to 2-3 parts water.

5. Long Black

Similar to an Americano, a long black is made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water. This preserves the crema on top. Popular in Australia and New Zealand.

6. Macchiato

Meaning "stained" in Italian, a macchiato is an espresso shot topped with a small dollop of foamed milk. The milk softens the espresso's intensity without overpowering it.

7. Long Macchiato

A long macchiato is a double shot of espresso topped with a dash of steamed milk, served in a long glass. The higher coffee to milk ratio results in a stronger drink than a latte or cappuccino.

8. Cortado

A cortado is an espresso cut with an equal amount of lightly steamed milk, resulting in a 4 oz drink that's slightly stronger than a cappuccino. Popular in Spain and Latin America.

9. Breve

A breve replaces the steamed milk in a latte with half-and-half, resulting in an extremely rich and creamy texture. The typical ratio is 1 part espresso to 2 parts half-and-half.

10. Cappuccino

The classic cappuccino consists of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. This results in a 6 oz drink with a stronger coffee flavor than a latte and a luxurious velvety texture. Variations include:

• Dry/Bone Dry Cappuccino (less steamed milk, more foam)
• Wet Cappuccino (more steamed milk, less foam)

11. Flat White

The flat white is prepared with a double shot of espresso and lightly steamed milk, but minimal foam, resulting in a stronger coffee flavor and velvety texture. Originated in Australia/New Zealand.

12. Café Latte

A latte consists of a shot of espresso topped with 6-8 oz of steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam. The higher milk content creates a sweeter, creamier drink that's popular worldwide. Flavorings like vanilla or hazelnut syrup are common.

13. Mocha/Mocaccino

Essentially a chocolate latte, a mocha is made with espresso, chocolate syrup or cocoa powder, and steamed milk, often topped with whipped cream. The chocolate adds richness and tames the coffee's acidity.

14. Affogato

An affogato is a dessert featuring a scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream "drowned" in a shot of hot espresso. The contrasting temperatures and textures make it a decadent treat.

15. Café Viennois

Also known as espresso con panna, a café viennois is a shot of espresso topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Originating in Vienna, it's a sweeter, more indulgent take on the classic espresso.

16. Espresso Romano

An espresso romano is a shot of espresso served with a slice of lemon on the side. The lemon is meant to be run along the rim of the cup before drinking to add a bright, zesty aroma.

17. Espresso Tonic

Espresso tonic is a trendy beverage consisting of a shot of espresso poured over tonic water and ice. The bitter-sweet tonic complements the espresso's roasty flavors while adding effervescence.

18. Café Bombon

Originating in Valencia, Spain, a café bombon is made with equal parts espresso and sweetened condensed milk. The condensed milk sinks to the bottom, creating a visually stunning layered effect.

19. Galão

A galão is a Portuguese drink made with espresso and foamed milk, similar to a cappuccino but served in a tall glass. The typical ratio is 1 part espresso to 3 parts milk.

20. Café Cubano

Cuban-style espresso, also known as cafecito, is sweetened with demerara sugar during the brewing process. The sugar is vigorously mixed with the first few drops of espresso to create a paste before adding the remaining coffee, resulting in a slightly syrupy, bittersweet drink.

21. Café Con Miel

A Spanish drink whose name means "coffee with honey," café con miel is made with espresso, steamed milk, honey, and cinnamon or cocoa powder. The honey adds a distinct floral sweetness that sets it apart from other sweetened espresso drinks.

Tips for Crafting the Perfect Espresso Drinks

• Start with freshly roasted, high-quality coffee beans for the best flavor.
• Grind beans right before brewing for optimal freshness.
• Use filtered water heated to the proper temperature (195-205°F) for espresso extraction.
• Maintain a consistent grind size, tamp pressure, and extraction time for even extraction.
• Steam milk to the proper temperature (135-150°F) for sweetness and texture, avoid scalding.
• For latte art, use chilled pitchers and steam milk with minimal foam.
• Experiment with different espresso to milk ratios and sweeteners to find your ideal flavor balance.
• Clean your espresso machine and grinder regularly for consistently delicious drinks.

Conclusion

The world of espresso drinks is incredibly diverse, with endless possibilities for customization and creativity. By understanding the key components and preparations behind these 21 popular beverages, you'll be well-equipped to explore the menu at your local café or craft your own espresso masterpieces at home. Whether you prefer the bold simplicity of a straight shot or the indulgent creaminess of a mocha, there's an espresso drink out there for every taste and occasion. So grab your favorite mug, fire up the espresso machine, and savor the rich, complex flavors of this beloved coffee tradition.