Brew-tiful Ways to Enjoy Coffee

Coffee is not just a beverage, it's a daily ritual that deserves to be savored-- every brew should be enjoyed, whether it's a strong Americano, a creamy latte, or a refreshing cold brew! This post will discuss some of the most popular ways that people enjoy their cup of brew.

1. The AMERICANO

Believed to have been originated from Europe in WWII when American soldiers stationed there found the espresso too strong and asked for hot water to dilute it. The result was a milder, more palatable coffee drink that they named "Americano" in honor of their American heritage. It has a bold and smooth flavor profile, with a slightly bitter taste that is characteristic of espresso. It can be enjoyed black, or with a splash of milk or cream depending on personal reference.

To make an Americano, a shot of espresso is first brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans at high pressure. Pour the shot into a cup and add water to fill. The amount of water added can vary depending on personal preference, but typically it's about the same amount of water as the espresso shot.

2. FLAT WHITE

The flat white is a popular espresso-based coffee drink that originated in Australia and New Zealand, but has now become a beloved specialty coffee all around the world. It's made by combining a double shot of espresso with steamed milk that has been micro-foamed to create a velvety, smooth texture. This is a perfect choice for people who prefer a stronger coffee taste with a creamy texture, without the sweetness of a cappuccino or the larger volume of a latte.

3. CAPPUCCINO

Looks similar to the flat white, doesn't it? This is the classic espresso-based coffee drink that's made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. Unlike the latte (see below), cappuccinos are distinctly layered, whereas the steamed milk and espresso are mixed together in a latte. Cappuccinos are often served with a dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top, adding an extra layer of flavor and aroma. See the difference now?

4. CAFFE LATTE

Every time I order a latte from Starbucks for my mom, she comments on its lack of coffee flavor. Latte is crafted by combining a shot of espresso with a "generous" amount of milk. That explains why the espresso taste isn't as intense. The latte is very popular though (probably the most common one mentioned in this post), mainly due to its high accessibility and ample opportunities for customization. Vanilla latte, hazelnut latte, caramel latte, heck you know you can continue the list. My personal favorite is the green tea latte, but this is a coffee post so let's stick with espresso.

In a latte, the espresso serves as the bold and robust foundation, while the steamed milk adds a silky and luscious texture. The milk tempers the intensity of the espresso, resulting in a milder and more approachable flavor profile. The latte's combination of espresso and milk creates a delicate balance, allowing the coffee's nuances to shine through while providing a creamy and comforting backdrop.

5. MACCHIATO

Macchiato means "stained" or "marked" in Italian. It's characterized by a small amount of milk or foam added to a shot of espresso. The macchiato's popularity stems from its ability to highlight the boldness of espresso while offering a smoother, creamier experience. To create a macchiato, a base of strong espresso is combined with a small amount of milk or foam, resulting in a beautifully layered concoction.

It can be served hot or iced. For a hot macchiato, steamed milk is carefully poured over a shot of espresso, creating a small mark or "stain" atop the velvety coffee. This gentle addition of milk adds a touch of sweetness and softness to the robust espresso, striking a harmonious balance of flavors.

In the case of an iced macchiato, the process begins with chilled milk poured over a shot of espresso, which is then poured over a generous amount of ice. The contrasting temperatures and layers create a refreshing and invigorating beverage, perfect for warmer days or those who prefer a cooler option.