If you’re passionate about coffee, knowing how to make classic drinks at home is a great way to personalize and perfect your coffee experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting popular espresso-based drinks.
Espresso
The foundation of all great coffee drinks, espresso is a highly concentrated shot made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee.
1. Ingredients: Freshly ground coffee (18–20 grams), water (90–96°C).
2. Instructions:
• Fill the portafilter with coffee grounds and tamp it evenly.
• Lock the portafilter into the machine and start the extraction. Aim for a 25-30 second brew time.
• A well-made espresso shot will have a golden crema on top, with a strong, balanced flavor.
Cappuccino
This beloved drink is all about the balance of espresso, steamed milk, and foam.
1. Ingredients: 1 shot of espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, 1/3 milk foam.
2. Instructions:
• Start by pulling an espresso shot.
• Steam the milk until it’s around 65°C, creating thick microfoam.
• Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, then add the milk foam on top.
Latte
A latte is similar to a cappuccino but has more milk, creating a creamier texture.
1. Ingredients: 1 shot of espresso, 2/3 steamed milk, a light foam layer.
2. Instructions:
• Pull an espresso shot.
• Steam milk until it reaches 60–65°C, with a light layer of foam.
• Pour the milk gently over the espresso, allowing a little foam on top.
Americano
The Americano offers a milder flavor by adding hot water to espresso.
1. Ingredients: 1 shot of espresso, hot water.
2. Instructions:
• Pull an espresso shot.
• Add 120–150 ml of hot water to the espresso to dilute the strength while keeping the flavor.
Flat White
A flat white is a popular drink with a velvety texture and a strong espresso flavor.
1. Ingredients: 1 shot of espresso, steamed milk with minimal foam.
2. Instructions:
• Pull an espresso shot.
• Steam milk to a silky consistency with minimal foam.
• Pour the milk over the espresso, allowing the espresso flavor to shine.
