The world of coffee offers an incredible range of drinks, each crafted with its own flavors, textures, and traditions. Since bringing home my new espresso maker, I’ve been experimenting every morning to make the perfect cup- right now, I’m enjoying a creamy cappuccino with just a splash of almond syrup. But I’ve noticed that ordering a cappuccino at a coffee shop can mean getting something completely different, especially with so many creative twists on the classics. For anyone who’s ever been curious about what separates a macchiato from a latte or wondered about the true balance in a flat white, this guide to gourmet coffee drinks will bring a little clarity to your coffee experience. Here’s the inside scoop on the ingredients, preparation, and origins of some beloved coffee drinks—so you can order (or make) each one with confidence.
1. Latte
A latte, short for "caffè latte" in Italian, literally means "milk coffee." This drink consists of a shot of espresso topped with steamed milk and finished with a small layer of foam. Lattes typically use a 1:3 or 1:4 ratio of espresso to milk, resulting in a smooth, mild coffee flavor. This high milk-to-espresso ratio makes the latte creamier and less intense than other espresso-based drinks, and it's a favorite canvas for "latte art."
2. Cappuccino
A cappuccino, often confused with a latte, has a similar foundation of espresso and steamed milk but with a key difference: the foam. A classic cappuccino is equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, creating a 1:1:1 ratio. This layering of foam and milk adds a richer texture and creates a stronger coffee flavor than the latte due to its lower milk content. Traditionally, cappuccinos are served in smaller cups than lattes, usually around six ounces. In the US, you can find shops that create large cappuccinos with extra shots and up to 12-ounce cups.
3. Macchiato
The macchiato, meaning "marked" or "stained" in Italian, is a simple espresso-based drink that involves "marking" a shot of espresso with a small amount of steamed milk. Unlike the latte or cappuccino, the macchiato has minimal milk, so the espresso flavor is more pronounced. This drink comes in a few varieties, such as the "espresso macchiato" (a shot of espresso with a small dollop of steamed milk) and the "latte macchiato" (steamed milk marked with espresso).
4. Americano
An Americano is created by adding hot water to a shot of espresso, diluting the strong flavor of espresso while retaining its depth. The drink’s origins trace back to World War II when American soldiers in Italy would add water to their espresso to replicate the drip coffee they were used to back home. The Americano is popular among coffee drinkers who want a lighter, more sippable drink with the richness of espresso.
5. Mocha
A mocha, also known as a "caffè mocha," combines espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup or cocoa powder, topped with whipped cream. Named after the Yemeni port city of Mocha, which was historically known for its coffee trade, this drink is a perfect fusion of coffee and chocolate, making it a popular choice among those who enjoy sweeter coffee options.
6. Flat White
The flat white originated in Australia and New Zealand and has recently gained popularity worldwide. This drink is similar to a latte but uses a higher ratio of espresso to milk and incorporates "microfoam" (finely textured milk). The result is a smooth, velvety texture with a bold espresso flavor that shines through more prominently than in a traditional latte.
7. Affogato
An affogato, translating to "drowned" in Italian, is a dessert-like coffee drink where a scoop of vanilla ice cream or gelato is "drowned" with a shot of hot espresso. The espresso melts the ice cream slightly, creating a rich, creamy texture and a delicious blend of coffee and sweetness. Affogatos are often served as an after-dinner treat and offer a unique way to enjoy coffee.
8. Cortado
A cortado is a Spanish-inspired drink that combines equal parts espresso and steamed milk, usually served in a small glass. The word "cortado" means "cut" in Spanish, as the milk "cuts" the intensity of the espresso. The result is a balanced coffee-to-milk ratio that brings out the espresso’s bold flavor without overpowering it with milk.
9. Ristretto
A ristretto is a "restricted" shot of espresso made with the same amount of coffee grounds as a standard espresso but with half the water. This creates a more concentrated shot with a fuller, richer flavor profile. Ristretto shots are smoother and less bitter than traditional espresso shots, making them a favorite among coffee aficionados.
10. Long Black
A long black is similar to an Americano, but the preparation method differs. Originating in Australia and New Zealand, a long black is made by adding a shot of espresso to hot water (instead of the other way around, as in an Americano). This preparation preserves more of the espresso’s crema, resulting in a bolder, richer flavor.
11. Breve
A breve is an American twist on the Italian latte, substituting half-and-half (a mix of milk and cream) for steamed milk. The result is a creamier, richer coffee drink with a velvety texture and a slightly higher calorie content. Breves are less common than other espresso drinks but offer a luxurious, indulgent option for milk-based coffee lovers.
Exploring these coffee drinks reveals just how diverse and delightful coffee can be, with each one bringing its own blend of flavors, textures, and aromas to the table. Whether you’re drawn to the smooth, milky balance of a latte, the bold concentration of an espresso shot, or the sweet indulgence of an affogato, there’s a perfect coffee moment waiting for every mood and occasion. So next time you’re at the café or brewing at home, don’t hesitate to try a new favorite and experience coffee from a fresh perspective.