A piping hot cup of coffee is the perfect way to start your day or enjoy a cozy afternoon break. With countless flavors, brewing methods, and roasting techniques, it’s no wonder coffee has become a global phenomenon! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 20 different coffee types to delight your taste buds and expand your coffee horizons.
1 – Espresso
Espresso is the quintessential coffee, forming the base for many popular coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and americanos. Made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans, espresso boasts a strong, concentrated flavor that packs a punch. The brewing process yields a thick, velvety crema on top, which is a testament to the coffee’s quality. You can enjoy your espresso as a single or double shot. Additionally, sipped straight or mixed with other ingredients to create a variety of coffee concoctions.
2 – Americano
The Americano is an espresso-based drink that gained popularity among American soldiers stationed in Italy during World War II. It’s a simple yet satisfying beverage that involves diluting a shot of espresso with hot water. The result is a milder, less intense coffee that retains the rich flavor of espresso but is easier to sip. You can enjoy an Americano black or with a splash of milk or cream. And it’s perfect for those who prefer a longer coffee without the heaviness of a latte or cappuccino.
3 – Latte
A latte is a popular espresso-based drink that combines steamed milk and a shot of espresso, resulting in a creamy, indulgent beverage. The milk’s velvety texture and natural sweetness help to balance the strong, robust flavor of the espresso. Lattes are versatile, allowing for a variety of flavor additions such as syrups, spices, and even alternative milk options. A classic latte is often adorned with latte art. With beautiful delicate designs created by pouring steamed milk over the espresso in intricate patterns.
4 – Cappuccino
Another espresso-based classic, the cappuccino consists of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and frothed milk. This well-balanced beverage has a rich and bold flavor profile, thanks to the strong espresso and creamy milk. The frothy milk on top adds a light and airy touch, making the cappuccino a delightful experience for both taste buds and texture. Many enjoy a dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for an extra hint of flavor.
5 – Macchiato
The macchiato is a simple yet elegant espresso-based drink. The name “macchiato” means “stained” or “spotted” in Italian, and it perfectly describes the beverage. A macchiato is an espresso shot “stained” with a small amount of steamed milk, creating a stronger coffee experience than a latte or cappuccino. The milk adds a subtle creaminess, taking the edge off the robust espresso without overwhelming its flavor.
6 – Flat White
Originating from Australia and New Zealand, the flat white is an espresso-based drink similar to a latte or cappuccino. But with a distinct texture. You can prepare your flat white by pouring microfoam – steamed milk with tiny, velvety bubbles – over a double shot of espresso. The result is a smooth, creamy coffee with a well-rounded flavor and a silky mouthfeel. The flat white has gained global popularity, becoming a staple at specialty coffee shops and major chains alike.
7 – Mocha
The mocha is a delightful fusion of coffee and chocolate, perfect for those with a sweet tooth. An espresso-based drink, the mocha typically includes a shot of espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup or cocoa powder. The combination of bold coffee and rich chocolate creates a luscious, indulgent flavor that’s hard to resist. You can add whipped ice cream on top and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of decadence.
8 – Cold Brew
Cold brew coffee is a refreshing alternative to traditional hot coffee, perfect for warm weather or those who prefer a smoother, less acidic taste. Cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period, usually 12-24 hours. This slow extraction process results in a smooth, full-bodied coffee with a naturally sweet flavor profile. You can drink cold brew over ice, with milk or a sweetener, or even as a base for creative coffee cocktails.
9 – Iced Coffee
Iced coffee is a popular summertime treat that offers the familiar taste of hot coffee but in a chilled, more refreshing form. Iced coffee is typically brewed hot and then poured over ice to cool it down. Some variations involve brewing the coffee at double strength to counteract the dilution from the melting ice. You can take your iced coffee as black or with milk, cream, or sweeteners, and it’s the perfect pick-me-up on a hot day.
10 – Pour Over
Pour over coffee is a manual brewing method that offers control over various brewing variables, resulting in a clean, nuanced cup. The process involves pouring hot water over freshly ground coffee beans in a conical filter, allowing the water to extract the coffee’s flavors as it passes through the grounds and into a carafe or cup below. Pour over coffee showcases the beans’ unique characteristics, making it a popular choice for coffee aficionados seeking a more refined taste experience.
11 – French Press
The French press, also known as a press pot or plunger pot, is a classic coffee brewing method that produces a full-bodied, richly flavored cup. Coarsely ground coffee is steeped in hot water inside a cylindrical glass or stainless steel container, and then a metal mesh plunger is used to separate the grounds from the liquid, leaving a robust, aromatic coffee. The French press method allows for a longer extraction time. As a result, a more complex flavor profile and a thicker mouthfeel coffee!
12 – AeroPress
The AeroPress is a relatively new brewing method that has gained a cult following among coffee enthusiasts. Invented in 2005, the AeroPress is a compact, portable device that uses pressure to extract coffee, yielding a smooth, concentrated brew. The process involves placing finely ground coffee in the AeroPress chamber, adding hot water, and then pressing the plunger through the chamber, forcing the water through the coffee grounds and a paper filter. The result is a strong, espresso-like coffee. You can drink it straight or diluted with hot water or milk.
13 – Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee is a unique brewing method with a rich history and a distinct flavor profile. Finely ground coffee beans are combined with water and sugar in a special pot called a cezve, then heated until the mixture forms a thick, frothy foam. The coffee is then carefully poured into small cups, allowing the grounds to settle at the bottom. Turkish coffee is a strong, bold flavor and thick coffee. Additionally, it’s often enjoyed with a sweet treat or a glass of water on the side.
14 – Irish Coffee
The Irish coffee is a delightful combination of coffee, whiskey, sugar, and whipped cream, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire or as a festive holiday treat. The drink is traditionally made by mixing hot coffee with a shot of Irish whiskey and a spoonful of brown sugar, then topping it with a layer of lightly whipped cream. The cream floats on top of the coffee, creating a visually appealing and deliciously indulgent beverage that warms both the body and the soul.
15 – Affogato
The affogato is a heavenly fusion of coffee and dessert, perfect for those who can’t decide between the two. It’s a simple yet delightful treat that consists of a scoop of vanilla ice cream or gelato, “drowned” in a shot of hot espresso. The combination of the rich, bold coffee and the creamy, sweet ice cream creates a contrasting yet harmonious flavor experience. The affogato is a popular Italian dessert that has gained international acclaim, and it’s the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth while still enjoying the taste of quality coffee.
16 – Cortado
The cortado is a small, balanced espresso-based drink that has its origins in Spain and Portugal. A cortado is made by pouring an equal amount of steamed milk over a shot of espresso, resulting in a harmonious blend of bold coffee flavor and creamy milk. The milk in a cortado is less frothy than in a cappuccino, giving the drink a smoother texture. The cortado is an excellent option for those who enjoy the taste of espresso but want a milder, less intense coffee experience.
17 – Café au Lait
The café au lait is a classic French coffee drink that’s known for its simplicity and comforting, homey appeal. It’s made by combining equal parts strong, dark-roasted coffee and steamed milk, resulting in a creamy, smooth beverage that’s perfect for leisurely sipping. You should serve your ”The café au lait” in a large, bowl-like cup. It is an ideal choice for a cozy breakfast or a relaxing afternoon break.
18 – Dalgona Coffee
Dalgona coffee, also known as whipped coffee, is a recent coffee trend that originated in South Korea and took the internet by storm. It’s made by whipping equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until the mixture becomes thick, creamy, and frothy. The whipped coffee is then spooned over a glass of milk, either hot or cold. Result is a visually appealing and deliciously indulgent drink. The contrasting layers of the creamy coffee and the smooth milk make for a delightful taste and texture experience.
19 – Vienna Coffee
The Vienna coffee is a rich, indulgent coffee drink that hails from the famous Viennese coffeehouses. You should combine strong, dark-roasted coffee with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a perfect Vienna. The whipped cream adds a luxurious, velvety texture to the coffee, as well as a touch of sweetness. The Vienna coffee is a delightful treat that’s perfect for savoring on a leisurely afternoon or as a decadent dessert.
20 – Bulletproof Coffee
Bulletproof coffee is a unique coffee drink that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among health and fitness enthusiasts. You can prepare your bulletproof by blending hot coffee with grass-fed unsalted butter and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, usually derived from coconut oil. The result is a frothy, creamy beverage that’s high in healthy fats and touted for its potential energy-boosting and brain-enhancing benefits. You can enjoy your bulletproof coffee as a breakfast replacement or as a pre-workout energizer.
We’ve now journeyed through the marvelous world of coffee, exploring 20 distinct coffee types. Each with its unique brewing methods and roasting techniques. With this newfound knowledge, you can now proudly call yourself a coffee connoisseur! Embark on a delicious adventure to try all these coffee varieties!