Coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s a ritual for many of us. Whether you’re easing into your morning or meeting up with friends, coffee plays a role in our daily routines. And while some folks stick to their favorite brew, others love exploring the wide variety of coffee drinks available. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed looking at a café menu or wondered what sets a cappuccino apart from a flat white, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down some of the most common types of coffee drinks, giving you a better idea of what to order next time you’re at your local coffee shop.
1. Espresso
At the heart of countless coffee drinks lies a concentrated shot of coffee made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans. Unlike drip coffee, which can take a while to brew, an espresso is quick and strong, packing a punch in a small cup. It’s also the foundation for many of the drinks we’ll explore later.
Espresso is known for its rich flavor and creamy “crema” that forms on top when brewed with a high-quality espresso machine. Whether enjoyed solo or as part of a more elaborate concoction, espresso sets the stage for a variety of options.
2. Americano
If you love the bold flavor of espresso but prefer something closer to the strength of a traditional drip coffee, an Americano might be your go-to drink. This is made by adding hot water to a shot (or two) of espresso, giving you a less concentrated but still full-bodied coffee experience. The Americano maintains the flavor profile of espresso but with a smoother, more diluted texture.
It’s said that American soldiers during WWII would dilute their espresso with water to make it last longer, and that’s where this drink gets its name.
3. Latte
A latte is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a balanced blend of espresso and milk. Made with one shot of espresso and steamed milk, the latte is smooth and creamy, making it one of the most popular coffee drinks around the world. Baristas often top it with a bit of milk foam, which gives lattes that signature texture. You can create this milk foam at home with a good milk frother.
Lattes are also incredibly versatile. You can easily add flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut to customize your drink. It’s no wonder why the latte has become a staple for both coffee enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
4. Cappuccino
If you like your coffee drinks with a bit more structure, cappuccino might be the way to go. While it shares similarities with the latte, the cappuccino has a different texture due to the way it’s layered. A traditional cappuccino is made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The result is a drink that’s lighter than a latte, but with a rich, full-bodied flavor.
In some cafés, cappuccinos are topped with a dash of cocoa powder or cinnamon for an extra touch. The layers of foam give it a luxurious texture, making it a classic favorite.
5. Flat White
If you’re a fan of espresso-based drinks but find lattes a bit too milky, the flat white might be what you’re looking for. This drink originated in Australia and New Zealand, and it’s made with a shot or two of espresso and a thinner layer of steamed milk. The milk in a flat white isn’t as frothy as in a cappuccino, but it’s smoother than in a latte, offering a velvety texture that perfectly complements the espresso.
Flat whites are often served in smaller cups, emphasizing the coffee more than the milk. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor but still want that creamy finish, this could be your drink.
6. Macchiato
For those who like their coffee bold but with just a hint of milk, the macchiato might be your ideal drink. A traditional macchiato is made by “marking” (which is what macchiato means in Italian) a shot of espresso with a small amount of milk foam. The result is a robust espresso experience with a light, creamy finish.
It’s important to note that macchiatos can vary significantly depending on where you order them. Some places make them with more milk, while others stick to the traditional small dash of foam. If you’re after a strong coffee with just a bit of softness, the macchiato is a good choice.
7. Mocha
Craving something sweet with your caffeine? The mocha might be just what you’re looking for. This drink combines the richness of espresso with steamed milk and chocolate syrup, creating a coffee beverage that’s part dessert, part pick-me-up. A mocha often comes topped with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
If you’re a fan of hot chocolate but want that extra kick of espresso, the mocha is a great option. It strikes a balance between sweetness and coffee flavor, making it a popular choice for those who want the best of both worlds.
8. Cortado
A cortado is for the minimalist coffee drinker who likes a perfect balance between milk and espresso. It’s made with equal parts of both, resulting in a drink that’s not too strong but not too creamy either. The milk in a cortado isn’t foamed as much as in a latte or cappuccino, which makes it a bit smoother and easier to drink.
Served in a smaller glass, cortados are great for those moments when you want something stronger than a latte but not as intense as a straight espresso. It’s a simple, balanced drink that’s become a favorite in many specialty coffee shops.
9. Affogato
This one’s for the coffee lovers with a sweet tooth. An affogato isn’t just a coffee drink—it’s also a dessert. It’s made by pouring a shot of hot espresso over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delicious contrast between the cold, creamy ice cream and the warm, strong espresso. The ice cream slowly melts into the coffee, creating a sweet, indulgent treat.
While traditionally served as a dessert, there’s no rule saying you can’t enjoy an affogato any time of the day. It’s the perfect combination of coffee and dessert in one!
Related: Biscoff Coffee Ice Cream Recipe
10. Cold Brew
For those hot summer days when a steaming cup of coffee just won’t do, cold brew is a refreshing alternative. Unlike iced coffee, which is simply brewed coffee poured over ice, cold brew is made by using a cold brew infuser to steep coarse coffee grounds in cold water with for an extended period—usually 12 to 24 hours. The result is a coffee that’s smooth, less acidic, and often has a naturally sweet taste.
Cold brew has gained popularity in recent years for its unique flavor profile and lower acidity. It’s a great option for anyone who enjoys a less bitter, more mellow coffee experience.
11. Frappé
Another iced coffee option that’s especially popular in warmer climates is the frappé. Originating in Greece, this drink is made by blending instant coffee with ice, water, and sugar. It’s simple but incredibly satisfying, especially when you’re looking for something cool to sip on during the summer months.
The frappé can be customized with coffee creamer or flavored syrup to suit your taste, making it a versatile drink that can easily be tailored to your preferences.
With so many types of coffee drinks available, there’s always something new to try. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple espresso or a more indulgent mocha, understanding the basics of each drink can help you find the perfect option for your taste buds. So, next time you find yourself at a café, you can order with confidence, knowing exactly what you’re getting and what makes each drink unique.