7 Essential Espresso Drink Recipes for Coffee Lovers
Espresso is the heart of many beloved coffee drinks around the world. Whether you prefer your coffee bold and black or creamy and sweet, there's an espresso-based beverage for you. Below is a guide to seven classic espresso drinks you can make at home or order like a pro.
For the following recipes, many will need steamed milk or milk foam. We have a helpful guide on milk frothing that you can review to figure out what works best for you.
1. Macchiato
We're not talking about the Starbucks "Caramel Macchiato". We're talking about the traditional Italian espresso drink that's pure, bold, and delightful.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 shots of espresso
- A dollop of milk foam
Recipe:
"Macchiato" means "stained" in Italian, referring to the espresso being "stained" with just a touch of milk. Brew a shot of espresso and top it with a small spoonful of milk foam. That’s it — simple, strong, and perfect for purists.
2. Americano
If you're looking for something bolder than a cup of coffee, the Americano is just as straight-forward, with espresso as the base.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 shots of espresso
- Hot water
Recipe:
Brew one shot of espresso and pour into a mug. Add about 6–8 ounces of hot water, depending on how strong you like it. The result is a smoother, milder version of black coffee with the depth of espresso.
3. Latte
If you prefer creamier coffee and espresso drinks, the latte is perfect.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 shots of espresso
- 6–8 ounces of steamed milk
- Light milk foam on top
Recipe:
Pour your shot(s) of espresso into a large mug. Steam the milk and pour it gently over the espresso, holding back the foam. Top with a thin layer of milk foam. Customize with flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel if desired.
4. Flat White
The flat white is named for the small layer of milk foam on the top. The key to a good flat white is perfecting your microfoam skills. The main difference between the flat White and a latte is primarily that it is less milk, and a higher ratio of espresso.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 shots of espresso
- 4 ounces of steamed milk
- Microfoam (velvety milk foam)
Recipe:
Originating from Australia/New Zealand, the flat white uses a smaller amount of steamed milk than a latte, resulting in a stronger coffee flavor. Steam milk to create microfoam (smooth, tiny bubbles), and pour it over the espresso shot for a creamy texture without the fluff.
5. Cappuccino
Cappuccino is all about balance. It's a 1:1:1 ratio of espresso to steamed milk to milk foam.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 shots of espresso
- 1/3 steamed milk
- 1/3 milk foam
Recipe:
Pull a shot of espresso, then add an equal amount of steamed milk and thick milk foam. For extra flair, sprinkle cocoa powder or cinnamon on top.
6. Cortado
The cortado is similar to a cappuccino, but without the milk foam. Some prefer it purely for the difference in texture.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 shots of espresso
- 1-2 ounces of steamed milk
Recipe:
The cortado is a 1:1 ratio drink that cuts the espresso's intensity with equal parts warm milk. Unlike most other espresso drinks, the milk in a cortado is steamed with minimal foam, making it silky and smooth.
7. Mocha
Chocolate milk... with a kick. The mocha is for those who want a little more in their espresso drink, like chocolate.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 shots of espresso
- 6 ounces of steamed milk
- 1–2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup or cocoa
- Whipped cream (optional)
Recipe:
Combine a shot of espresso with chocolate syrup in a mug and stir until well blended. Add steamed milk and top with whipped cream for a dessert-like coffee experience. Garnish with chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.
No matter how you enjoy your espresso, there's something special about the ritual of making your favorite drink just right. Whether you're brewing at home or ordering at a café, now you know exactly what goes into these iconic espresso recipes.