Many new coffee drinkers find themselves confused by the many different types of coffee drinks available. European drinkers tend to prefer simple, intense espresso shots while Americans often turn to the creamy flavored coffees. It’s really a matter of taste and fun. Let’s take a moment and review the different types of coffee you’ll see on most coffee shop menu’s.
Espresso
Espresso plays the foundational role in most coffee drinks. Espresso is not bitter or burnt coffee. It’s actually a method of preparing coffee and is a blend of both varietals and roasts. It’s then finely ground and tightly packed into a filter where water is forced through. The first water through the grounds is intense and flavorful. In Europe, it’s served in small demitasse-style cups and drunk quickly.
- Ristretto – A “short shot” – the first 3/4 ounce of espresso, considered the best of the extraction.
- Single Shot – 1 ounce of espresso
- Lungo – A “long shot” – 1.5 ounces of expresser
- Double Shot – Two ounces of coffee prepared with twice the amount of coffee beans. it’s STRONG.
Cafe Americano
Cafe Americano Is a very light cup of coffee containing one shot of Espresso mixed with 6 to 8 ounces of water.
Espresso Macchiato
Unlike what you’ll find in many national chains, a genuine Espresso Macchiato is unflavored and quite simple, containing just a shot of espresso with a layer of foamed milk.
Espresso con Panno
If you prefer a richer, creamier taste, an Espresso con Panna may be the perfect choice. It contains a shot of espresso with a layer of whipped cream.
Cafe Breve
If you want the cream but not the calories, Cafe Breve contains a shot of espresso with steamed half & half.
Cappuccino
In European coffee shops, cappuccino’s are extremely popular. They contain a shot of espresso with steamed, wet milk but with no froth or foam on top.
Cafe Latte / Cafe con Leche (Spanish) / Cafe Au Lait (French)
Latte’s combine espresso, milk, flavoring and occasional spices to create rich, sweet flavors. A popular favorite during the fall is the celebrated Pumpkin Spice Latte, but you’ll also other fun flavors such as caramel, salted caramel, cinnamon dolce and hazelnut. These drinks start with a shot of espresso with 6 to 8 ounces of steamed milk and topped with a layer of milk foam. If you don’t care for the foam, order a Flat White instead. If you prefer larger drinks, you’ll probably need a double shot of espresso. Fair warning – Latte’s are where you’ll find the highest calorie counts, especially if they top them with whipped cream, chocolate or caramel sauce.
Prelief Can Help You Enjoy Coffee Again
If you would love to try these different types of coffee, but it causes discomfort, it’s most likely due to the acid in the coffee. By using Prelief caplets, which work on the food not on the body, it can help reduce up to 95% of the acid from a 6oz cup of coffee. By reducing the acid in your coffee you may bring back a cherished tradition. Prelief is available at Walgreens and Online.