If you love coffee, you’re in for a treat. This article covers 25 delicious coffee drinks with recipes you can make at home. You’ll discover a range of flavors and preparation methods that will elevate your coffee experience.
Have you ever wondered how to make your favorite coffee shop drinks at home? From lattes to mochas, this guide will teach you how to brew these amazing beverages in your own kitchen. Enjoy the rich and varied world of coffee with these easy-to-follow recipes.
1) Espresso
Espresso is a strong, concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans. It forms the base for many popular coffee drinks.
When making espresso, you need an espresso machine. This machine uses pressure, around 9 bars, to push water through the coffee grounds.
A standard espresso shot is about one ounce, with a rich, creamy layer on top called the crema. The crema adds a slightly sweet flavor and smooth texture.
The quality of espresso depends on the grind size, coffee-to-water ratio, and extraction time. A typical extraction time is around 25 to 30 seconds.
The perfect espresso shot should be well-balanced, neither too bitter nor too acidic. Too short an extraction results in under-extracted, sour coffee, while too long makes the espresso bitter.
Espresso is the foundation for drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos, each of which adds different types and amounts of milk and foam. Enjoying a well-made espresso can be an exquisite coffee experience.
2) Cappuccino
A cappuccino is a classic coffee drink made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. It has a rich and creamy texture. The ratio gives it a balanced flavor that’s both strong and smooth.
To make a cappuccino, start by brewing two shots of espresso. An espresso machine is ideal for this, but you can also use Aeropress if needed.
Next, froth the milk. Use a steaming wand if you have an espresso machine. Hold the steam wand just below the surface of the milk until it doubles in size with foam.
Pour the brewed espresso into a cup. Gently add the steamed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon. Finally, top off the drink with the milk foam.
You can also froth the milk using a frother or even a French press if you don’t have an espresso machine. Heat the milk first, then pump the lever of the French press to create foam.
Serve your cappuccino in a pre-warmed cup to keep it hot longer. Some people like to sprinkle a bit of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for added flavor.
3) Latte
A latte is a popular espresso-based drink. It combines espresso with steamed milk and a bit of milk foam on top.
To make a latte, you’ll first need to brew a shot of espresso. You can use an espresso machine or a Moka pot for this.
Next, steam your milk. If you don’t have a steam wand, you can use a milk frother or heat the milk on the stove, then froth it with a whisk or French press.
Pour the espresso into a cup. Slowly add the steamed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon. Finally, top the drink with a small layer of foam.
Many enjoy adding flavored syrups, like vanilla or caramel, to their lattes. Just pour the syrup into your cup before adding the espresso and milk.
A latte is a versatile drink. You can make it hot or iced. Simply skip the steaming and pour the milk cold over ice and espresso.
Enjoy experimenting with your latte-making skills and exploring different flavors and techniques.
4) Americano
An Americano is a straightforward coffee drink that mixes espresso and hot water. It has a smooth, balanced taste with the bold flavors of espresso but less intense.
To make an Americano, you need a shot of espresso. You can use an espresso machine, a manual espresso maker, or an Aeropress.
Once you have your espresso, boil some water. The typical ratio is 1 part espresso to 2 parts hot water. Pour the espresso into your cup, then add the hot water.
If you want to adjust the strength, you can change the water-to-espresso ratio. You might prefer a 3:1 ratio for a milder drink.
Some people like to add milk, cream, or sugar. That’s up to you. You could also try a splash of steamed milk or a spoonful of honey.
For a refreshing twist, you can make an Iced Americano. Use cold water instead, and serve it over ice. Adjust the water-to-espresso ratio to 1.5:1 to account for the ice melting.
Making an Americano at home is easy and lets you enjoy a coffee shop favorite without leaving your kitchen.
5) Flat White
A flat white is a coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk. It originated in Australia and New Zealand and is now popular worldwide.
To make a flat white, you need a double shot of espresso. You can prepare this using an espresso machine or a Moka pot. The coffee should be smooth and rich.
Next, steam the milk until it reaches a creamy texture. You want a fine microfoam, which is silky and smooth. This can be done with a steam wand or a milk frother.
When your espresso and milk are ready, pour the steamed milk over the espresso. The key is to pour slowly, allowing the milk to mix with the coffee.
A flat white should have a strong coffee flavor balanced with the creamy milk. It is often served in a smaller cup than a latte, emphasizing the espresso’s taste.
6) Mocha
A mocha is a delicious blend of coffee and chocolate. It’s a popular choice for those who enjoy the rich flavors of both.
Start by brewing a strong cup of espresso or bold coffee. If you have an espresso machine, use it to pull a shot of espresso.
Add chocolate to your mug. You can use chocolate syrup, cocoa powder mixed with sugar, or even melt chocolate chips with hot coffee.
Pour the hot coffee or espresso over the chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is fully dissolved.
Next, steam your milk. If you have a milk frother, use it to froth the milk until you get a nice, frothy texture. If not, heat the milk on the stove and whisk it until frothy.
Pour the steamed milk into the coffee and chocolate mixture. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
Top your mocha with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. You can also drizzle some chocolate syrup on top for added flavor and appearance.
Enjoy your homemade mocha, sipping slowly to savor the delightful blend of coffee and chocolate. This drink is best enjoyed fresh and hot, providing a perfect treat at any time of the day.
7) Macchiato
A macchiato is a simple yet delightful espresso-based drink. The word “macchiato” means “stained” or “spotted” in Italian. This refers to how the espresso is “stained” with a small amount of frothy milk.
To make a macchiato, start by pulling a shot or two of espresso. Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best flavor.
Next, heat the milk until it’s hot but not boiling, around 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Froth the milk using a frother, French press, or whisk.
For a traditional macchiato, add just a dollop of milk froth to the espresso. This keeps the drink strong and espresso-forward.
A modern macchiato includes more steamed milk. Use a ratio of one part espresso to half a part steamed milk and half a part milk froth. This version is creamier and balances the espresso’s boldness.
Serve your macchiato immediately after preparation to enjoy a warm and rich coffee experience. This drink is perfect for a quick pick-me-up while appreciating the delicate balance of espresso and milk.
8) Ristretto
A ristretto is a strong and concentrated espresso shot.
To make a ristretto, start with finely ground coffee beans, using about 14-16 grams for a double shot. Place the coffee grounds into the portafilter of your espresso machine and tamp them evenly.
Begin the extraction process. The key is to watch the time closely. Aim for a flow rate of 25-30 seconds, but stop the process at 15-20 seconds. This will yield about 15-20 ml, or 0.5-0.7 oz, for a single shot.
The result is a richer and more intense coffee flavor, thanks to the shorter extraction time. The coffee is more concentrated, offering a bold and flavorful sip with a caramel-colored crema on top.
9) Affogato
Affogato is a perfect blend of coffee and dessert. It’s an easy Italian treat made with just two main ingredients.
Start by brewing a shot of hot espresso. While it’s brewing, place one or more scoops of vanilla gelato or ice cream into a glass. Chilling the glass beforehand can keep the treat cold longer.
Once the espresso is ready, pour it directly over the gelato. If you like, add a splash of amaretto or another liqueur for extra flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy the mix of hot coffee and cold ice cream. You’ll love how the ice cream melts into the coffee, creating creamy swirls. It’s delicious and simple!
10) Iced Coffee
Iced coffee is a refreshing drink that combines the bold flavor of coffee with the coolness of ice.
You can make iced coffee by brewing a pot of coffee, letting it cool, and pouring it over ice.
This method is simple and requires minimal ingredients.
For a sweeter option, add sugar or your favorite flavored syrup.
Another popular version is cold-brew iced coffee.
You’ll need coarse coffee grounds and cold water.
Mix them in a jar and let them steep in the fridge for 12-24 hours.
Strain the mixture, and you’ll have a smooth, less acidic coffee.
Add ice and any milk or sweeteners you prefer.
Many enjoy experimenting with different flavors like vanilla, caramel, or chocolate.
You can use syrups, cocoa powder, or even chocolate ice cream.
Feel free to get creative.
For a creamier texture, blend your iced coffee with milk or cream.
You can also turn it into an iced latte by adding espresso shots to cold milk.
This gives you a richer coffee taste.
Making iced coffee at home allows you to tailor the drink to your taste.
With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a customized, refreshing beverage.
11) Cold Brew
Cold brew coffee is a refreshing way to start your day. It’s simple to make and perfect for hot weather. You’ll need coarse coffee grounds and cold water.
Mix the coffee and water in a jar or pitcher. Stir it well. Let it sit in your fridge for at least 15 hours.
After brewing, strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer. This removes the grounds and leaves you with smooth coffee concentrate.
You can drink it straight or add water, milk, or sweeteners to taste. Try adding ice for a cool, refreshing drink.
Experiment with different flavors. Add syrups like caramel or vanilla, or even a bit of lavender syrup.
Cold brew keeps well in the fridge. It can last up to a week, making it convenient for busy mornings.
Enjoy your cold brew at home, saving you trips to the coffee shop. It’s easy, delicious, and customizable.
12) Frappuccino
A frappuccino is a popular iced coffee drink. You can make it at home with a few simple ingredients. It’s a great way to enjoy a cold, refreshing coffee treat.
Start with 1 cup of chilled espresso or strong coffee. Use an airtight container to store your coffee in the fridge for no more than 2 hours to keep it fresh.
In a blender, combine your chilled coffee, 2 cups of crushed ice, 1 cup of cold milk, and 1-2 tablespoons of sugar or sweetener. For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla or chocolate syrup.
Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can adjust the consistency by adding more ice or milk, depending on your preference.
Pour your frappuccino into a tall glass. Top with whipped cream for a classic touch. You can also sprinkle a little cocoa powder or drizzle some syrup on top for extra flavor.
Serve with a straw and enjoy your homemade frappuccino. This simple recipe lets you recreate the coffee shop favorite right in your own kitchen.
13) Vienna Coffee
Vienna Coffee is a classic and elegant drink that combines rich espresso with decadent whipped cream.
To start, brew two shots of espresso using your espresso machine.
Next, choose a heat-resistant glass or cup. Pour the freshly brewed espresso into the cup, making sure there’s room at the top for the whipped cream.
Then, add a generous spoonful of whipped cream on top of the espresso. The whipped cream should float, not mix into the coffee.
Optionally, you can sprinkle cocoa powder or grated chocolate on the whipped cream for extra flavor.
Enjoy your Vienna Coffee immediately while it’s still hot. This drink offers a perfect balance of strong coffee and creamy sweetness.
14) Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee is a traditional drink with a rich, intense flavor. It’s made by boiling finely ground coffee beans in a special pot called a cezve. Unlike other brewing methods, the coffee grounds are not filtered out.
To prepare it, mix two heaping teaspoons of finely ground coffee with 60-90 mL of cold, fresh water per serving in the cezve. If you want it sweetened, add sugar before brewing. Stir the mixture until combined.
Place the cezve on the stovetop and heat it on medium-low. Watch closely as the coffee heats up. You want it to reach a frothy state without boiling over. This process takes about 3-4 minutes.
Once the coffee starts to froth and rise, remove it from the heat and let it settle for a few seconds. Repeat this process if you want a thicker froth. Pour the coffee into small cups and let the sediment settle before drinking.
You can add spices like cardamom for extra flavor, but this is optional. Enjoy your Turkish coffee slowly, savoring the unique taste that has been enjoyed for centuries.
15) Irish Coffee
Irish Coffee is a classic drink that combines coffee with Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream. It’s perfect for a cozy evening or a special brunch.
Start by brewing your favorite coffee. A dark roast works best as it balances well with the whiskey. Pour the hot coffee into an Irish coffee glass or any heatproof mug.
Add a teaspoon or two of brown sugar to the coffee. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. The sugar not only sweetens but also helps the cream float on top.
Add a shot of Irish whiskey to the sweetened coffee. Jameson is a popular choice, but you can use any good Irish whiskey you prefer.
Lightly whip heavy cream until it reaches soft peaks. Float the whipped cream on top by slowly pouring it over the back of a spoon. This creates a distinct layer, which is a hallmark of a true Irish Coffee.
Enjoy your Irish Coffee by sipping it through the cream. The warm, sweet coffee mixed with the whiskey and the cool cream on top makes for a delightful drink.
16) Dalgona Coffee
Dalgona coffee is a popular whipped coffee drink that became viral. It’s known for its creamy, fluffy top and smooth texture. You only need a few ingredients to make it.
First, gather instant coffee, sugar, and hot water. Use equal parts of each, such as 2 tablespoons. Put these ingredients in a medium bowl.
Use a hand mixer, whisk, or frother to mix them. Beat the mixture until it becomes thick and creamy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
Once the mixture is frothy and forms stiff peaks, it’s ready. Grab a glass and pour in chilled milk. Spoon the whipped coffee mixture on top of the milk.
You can add a splash of vanilla or sprinkle cocoa powder on top if you want to get creative. Enjoy your Dalgona coffee by mixing the frothy top into the milk below.
17) Café au Lait
Café au lait, a classic French coffee drink, pairs strong coffee with steamed milk. You can use a Moka Pot or French press to make the coffee. Brew a dark roast for a rich flavor.
Heat the milk to just below boiling. Use a steamer if you have one, or heat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Combine equal parts of coffee and milk in a large mug. This balance creates a smooth, creamy texture.
For a traditional touch, use a New Orleans blend with chicory. It adds a unique, slightly bitter taste. This step isn’t a must, but it offers an authentic experience.
Experiment with different types of milk. Almond, soy, or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
Café au lait is simple and comforting. You can enjoy it as a morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up.
18) Cortado
A cortado is a simple yet satisfying coffee drink. It features a 1:1 ratio of espresso to steamed milk. This balance makes it less intense than a straight espresso, but still rich in flavor.
To make a cortado, start by pulling a double shot of espresso. You will need freshly ground coffee beans for the best taste. Use an espresso machine to brew.
While the espresso is being pulled, steam approximately 2 ounces of milk. The milk should be hot but not boiling. Aim for a smooth, velvety texture.
Pour the espresso into a small glass. Then, gently add the steamed milk. This method ensures the perfect blend of coffee and milk.
The cortado is best enjoyed immediately. The warm milk melds with the robust espresso to create a balanced drink that highlights the flavors of both components.
19) Red Eye
A Red Eye coffee is a powerful and bold drink. It combines drip-brewed coffee with a shot of espresso. This mix boosts the caffeine and flavor, making it stronger than either drink alone.
First, brew your coffee using your preferred method. This could be a drip machine, French press, or pour-over. Make one cup of brewed coffee, around 10 ounces.
Next, prepare a shot of espresso. You can use an espresso machine or a stovetop espresso maker. A single shot is about 2 ounces.
Pour the espresso shot into your brewed coffee. Stir gently to combine the two drinks. You can customize your Red Eye with sugar, milk, or cream if desired.
Red Eye coffee is popular among those who need a serious caffeine kick. It’s sometimes known by other names, like a “shot in the dark” or “sludge cup.” The bold taste and high caffeine content make it a favorite for a long day ahead.
20) Long Black
A Long Black is a popular coffee drink, especially in Australia and New Zealand. It consists of hot water topped with a double shot of espresso, giving it a strong yet smooth flavor.
To make a Long Black, start by filling a cup about halfway with hot water. The water should be freshly boiled and around 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C). This ensures the best extraction of flavors from the coffee.
Next, brew a double shot of espresso using an espresso machine. Pour the espresso slowly over the hot water. This method preserves the crema, that golden layer of foam on top, adding to the richness of the drink.
The choice of coffee beans can influence the flavor. Robusta beans provide a stronger taste with more caffeine, while Arabica beans offer a lighter and slightly sweeter profile. Experiment with both to find your preferred flavor.
A Long Black is different from an Americano, which involves adding hot water to the espresso. By pouring the espresso over the water, you maintain the espresso’s intensity and the creamy texture of the crema.
Enjoy your Long Black as a straightforward, robust coffee that’s perfect for any time of day.
21) Breve
A Breve is a creamy espresso drink made using steamed half-and-half. This creates a rich and smooth texture, different from a typical latte.
Start by brewing a shot of espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a strong coffee will do. Next, focus on frothing the half-and-half.
You can steam the half-and-half using an espresso machine, which will stretch the milk slightly. Alternatively, use a milk frother, a French press, or even a whisk to froth it. Heating the half-and-half in a microwave or on the stove is also an option, just be careful not to boil it.
Pour the frothed half-and-half over the freshly brewed espresso. The ratio should be equal parts espresso and half-and-half, giving it a delightful creaminess. Serve your Breve in a large coffee cup and enjoy this indulgent drink.
Making a Breve at home is simple and requires only a few ingredients: espresso and half-and-half. With these steps, you can create a smooth, rich coffee drink that rivals any coffee shop. Enjoy your homemade Breve as a special treat.
22) Gibraltar
A Gibraltar coffee is a delicious and balanced espresso drink served in a 4.5-ounce glass tumbler. It is similar to a cortado, featuring a 1:1 ratio of espresso to steamed milk.
To make a Gibraltar, start by grinding high-quality espresso beans to a fine consistency. Use about 18-21 grams of ground coffee for a double-shot.
Next, brew a double-shot of espresso. This typically takes about 25-30 seconds. Carefully pour the espresso into your glass tumbler.
Steam your milk to about 20-25% in height. It’s important not to over-froth the milk. The goal is to create a smooth, creamy texture.
Pour the steamed milk into the espresso slowly. Make sure not to let the foam pour into the drink, as the Gibraltar should have a velvet-smooth top layer.
Your Gibraltar coffee is ready to be enjoyed. This drink is rich yet smooth, making it a favorite among espresso lovers.
23) Nitro Coffee
Nitro coffee is a unique drink that combines cold brew coffee with nitrogen gas. This infusion creates a smooth and creamy texture, similar to a stout beer.
To make nitro coffee, start by brewing a strong batch of cold brew coffee. Let the coffee steep at room temperature for about 18-24 hours.
Next, strain the coffee using a fine sieve to remove the grounds.
Pour your cold brew into a whipped cream dispenser. Charge the dispenser with one nitrous oxide cartridge. Shake the canister for 30 seconds, then let it sit for another 30 seconds.
When serving, pour the nitro coffee from the dispenser into a glass. The drink will appear frothy and slightly carbonated.
Enjoy this creamy, refreshing coffee over ice or on its own. It’s a perfect summer beverage that offers a rich coffee flavor with a smooth finish.
24) Espresso Con Panna
Espresso Con Panna is a rich and creamy coffee drink. It blends the strength of espresso with the sweetness of whipped cream. This Italian classic is simple yet indulgent.
To make it, start with a high-quality espresso. Use a Moka pot, espresso machine, or your favorite brewing method. Ensure the coffee is slightly stronger than usual.
Next, prepare the whipped cream. In a bowl, mix heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and a little vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it’s thick and creamy. Keep the extra cream in the fridge for up to two days.
Pour your espresso into a cup. Gently spoon the whipped cream on top of the espresso. Serve it immediately to enjoy the contrast between the hot coffee and cold cream.
The result is a drink with a bold espresso flavor and a smooth, sweet finish. The whipped cream balances the bitterness, making each sip delightful. This drink is perfect for a luxurious coffee break.
25) Café Bombón
Café Bombón is a sweet and visually striking coffee drink. Originating from Spain, it combines the rich taste of espresso with the creamy sweetness of sweetened condensed milk.
To prepare Café Bombón, start by brewing a shot of espresso.
Pour sweetened condensed milk into a clear glass. The amount should equal the espresso.
Slowly pour the espresso over the milk. This creates a layered effect, with coffee resting on top of the milk.
Some variations include adding whipped cream or milk froth on top. You might serve it with a spoon to mix the layers if desired.
Enjoy your Café Bombón as a delightful treat any time of day. It’s simple to make and offers a unique, sweet coffee experience.
Health Benefits of Coffee
Coffee is not just a morning pick-me-up; it’s packed with health benefits that can positively impact your life. These benefits include its rich antioxidant content, cognitive function enhancement, and a boost in physical performance.
Antioxidant Properties
Coffee is a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in your body, which can reduce inflammation and lower your risk of various diseases. Chlorogenic acid, found in coffee, plays a significant role in these benefits.
By drinking coffee, you can improve your overall health and potentially decrease your risk of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
Furthermore, antioxidants can also help you maintain healthier skin and hair, making coffee a beneficial addition to your daily routine.
Enhanced Cognitive Function
One of the major benefits of coffee is its ability to improve your cognitive functions. Caffeine, the most well-known component of coffee, can enhance memory, mood, and vigilance.
By stimulating your nervous system, caffeine can make you more alert and reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Additionally, moderate coffee consumption has been linked to better cognitive health in older adults. Regular intake can help you stay sharp and focused throughout your day.
Physical Performance Boost
Coffee is also known to enhance physical performance. Drinking it before exercise can increase adrenaline levels in your blood. This, in turn, prepares your body for intense physical exertion.
The caffeine content in coffee helps mobilize fatty acids from your fat tissues, making them available as energy.
As a result, this can improve your endurance and strength during workouts. Incorporating coffee into your pre-workout routine can give you that extra push to achieve your fitness goals.
Tips for Brewing the Perfect Coffee
Brewing the perfect coffee involves selecting high-quality beans, grinding them correctly, and using the right water temperature. Paying attention to these aspects will greatly enhance your coffee experience.
Choosing the Right Beans
The quality of your coffee greatly depends on the beans you choose. Always opt for fresh, whole beans. Check for a roast date on the package to ensure freshness. Beans lose their flavor fast, so aim to use them within a few weeks of roasting.
Origin matters – beans from different regions have unique flavors. For example, Ethiopian beans are fruity, while Brazilian beans are nuttier. Choose according to your taste preference.
Roast level is also important. Lighter roasts retain more of the beans’ natural flavors, while darker roasts provide bolder, more robust tastes. Experiment with different beans to find your perfect cup.
Grinding Techniques
Grinding your coffee just before brewing ensures maximum freshness. The grind size is crucial and varies with your brewing method. Use a burr grinder for a consistent grind.
Here’s a quick reference:
- Coarse: French Press
- Medium: Drip Coffee Maker
- Fine: Espresso Machine
- Extra Fine: Turkish Coffee
A grind that’s too fine or too coarse can ruin your coffee. If your coffee tastes too bitter, the grind might be too fine. If it’s too sour, the grind might be too coarse. Adjust accordingly based on taste.
Water Temperature and Quality
The water temperature should be between 195°F and 205°F for optimal brewing. Water that’s too hot can scorch the coffee, while water that’s too cold won’t extract the full flavor.
Use filtered water for the best taste. Tap water often contains impurities and minerals that can affect your coffee. Avoid distilled water, as it lacks the minerals that help develop the coffee’s flavor.
A basic rule is to use one to two tablespoons of coffee grounds per six ounces of water. Adjusting this ratio can result in a stronger or weaker cup, depending on your preference.
