Coffee comes in all shapes and sizes, from the short, punchy espresso to the silky smooth flat white. Whether you’re all about rich, black filter coffee or love the frothy indulgence of a cappuccino, every brew has its own unique style. Not sure what the difference is between a latte and a cortado? Or whether a macchiato is for you?
Here’s a quick guide to the most popular coffee drinks and what makes each one special.
Should be served in a 3/4 oz cup alongside a glass of water. It is essential that all the brewing equipment and machine is clean, as the coffee is the only thing you will be tasting.
See our top tips for perfecting your home espresso.
Americanos are hot water and espresso.
Served in an 8oz/10oz cup. Fill the cup 2/3 of the way with hot water and brew the espresso on top as to not scold the coffee. This can be served black or with hot or cold milk.
Served in a 6/8 oz cup. A short strong coffee with a small layer of foam.
Served in a 8/10 oz cup. Cappuccinos work in thirds, 1/3 coffee, 1/3 steamed milk and 1/3 foam. There should be more foam than a flat white or latte. Traditionally, cappuccinos have a dusting of
chocolate on top.
Served in a 3/4 oz cup. Brew your espresso and steam really foamy milk. With a teaspoon, add 4 teaspoons of foam to a double shot of espresso, or 2 teaspoons of foam to a single shot of
espresso.
Served in a 8/10 oz cup. Lattes have a small layer of foam on top, allowing you to do latte art with the poured milk.
Cortados are smaller flat whites, served in a 5oz glass, usually with small layer of foam. Piccolos are served in an espresso cup (3/4 oz cup). Equal parts of steamed milk and espresso.
Served in a 10/ 12 oz cup. Add your chosen powdered or flaked chocolate into the cup, and brew the shot of espresso over the top. Mix into a paste then steam ‘latte style’ milk and pour.
