While I wouldn’t call myself a coffee expert, I have definitely grown an appreciation for the beloved beverage over the past few years. My first real experience with coffee was when I worked at a café for two weeks. Yes, only two weeks. It was a short-lived job, but it left a lasting impact. I got the job right after I turned 16, and even though I didn’t stick with it for long, it sparked my interest in coffee.
During my brief stint as a barista, I learned a lot about coffee; how to make drinks, the difference between a latte and a cappuccino, and the balance of flavors that make a perfect cup. One thing I realized is that crafting coffee is truly an art. Before this, I rarely drank coffee, and when I did, it was usually some overly sweet drink from Starbucks, topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle.
Fast forward to today, and I’ve come a long way in my coffee journey. In this blog post, I’m sharing my knowledge and opinions on different types of coffee drinks. Hopefully, you’ll learn something new and maybe even feel inspired to try something different next time you order!
Exploring Popular Coffee Drinks
Latte
Let’s start with one of the most versatile coffee drinks: the latte. A latte is made with a shot or two of espresso and steamed milk, topped with a thin layer of foam. The best part about lattes is how customizable they are. You can add flavors like vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or even seasonal syrups like pumpkin spice. Lattes are smooth, creamy, and perfect if you’re easing into coffee and want something milder. My personal favorite is a honey almond milk iced latte, with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Cappuccino
A cappuccino is similar to a latte but with a higher ratio of foam to milk. It’s made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The foam adds a light, airy texture, making cappuccinos feel a little fancier. My mom swears by cappuccinos because they’re strong but not overwhelming. If you want to elevate your cappuccino, try dusting some cocoa powder or cinnamon on top, it’s a game changer!
Americano
An Americano is as straightforward as it gets. It’s made by diluting espresso with hot water, creating a drink that’s similar in strength to drip coffee but with a smoother flavor. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the boldness of espresso without it being too overpowering. I personally prefer a Americano over just a regular cup of coffee, since it is so much more flavorful!
Macchiato
The macchiato comes in a few variations, but the classic version is a shot of espresso “stained” with a dollop of foam or milk. It’s strong, concentrated, and perfect if you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up. Then there’s the caramel macchiato, which is a sweet, layered drink made with vanilla syrup, steamed milk, espresso, and a drizzle of caramel. It’s a far from the traditional macchiato but wildly popular for its dessert-like flavors and while working at the café, it was ordered a lot more than I had expected.
Flat White
A flat white originated in Australia and is similar to a latte, but it has a thinner layer of “microfoam” and uses less milk overall. The result is a velvety texture that lets the bold flavors of espresso shine through. Flat whites are a favorite among coffee purists who want something smooth and balanced without too much fluff.
Mocha
The mocha is for the chocolate lovers out there. It’s essentially a latte with chocolate syrup or cocoa powder mixed in. Some cafés even top it with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. It’s sweet, creamy, and perfect if you’re craving a little dessert in your coffee cup. In my opinion, you should try a white mocha for a creamier, sweeter twist.
Cold Brew
Cold brew has taken the coffee world by storm in recent years. Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then cooled, cold brew is steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours. This process makes it smoother, less acidic, and naturally sweeter than traditional coffee. It’s incredibly refreshing on a hot day and pairs perfectly with flavors like vanilla or caramel.
Espresso
If you’re a fan of pure, unadulterated coffee, espresso is the way to go. A single shot is bold, concentrated, and packed with flavor. It’s the base for so many coffee drinks, but it’s also perfect on its own for a quick caffeine boost. If you’re feeling fancy, order a doppio (double shot) for twice the intensity.
Frappuccino
While not exactly “traditional,” we can’t leave out the Frappuccino. Similar to a milkshake, this blended, icy drink comes in endless flavors and combinations. It’s a fun, sweet treat that’s perfect for non-coffee drinkers or anyone who wants dessert in a cup. My brother is a huge fan of Frappuccino’s, especially anything with chocolate chips or caramel.
Matcha Latte
While not technically coffee, matcha lattes have become a staple in cafés everywhere. Made with finely ground green tea powder, steamed milk, and a touch of sweetness, it’s a creamy, earthy alternative to coffee. My sister’s favorite is a hot French vanilla matcha, which balances the earthy flavor of the matcha with the sweetness of vanilla.
Experimenting with Coffee Customizations
One of the best things about coffee is how customizable it is. From milk options to flavor add ins, there are endless ways to make a drink your own. Here are a few ideas to elevate your next cup:
- Try different types of milk: almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk can completely change the flavor and texture of your coffee.
- Add spices: a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cardamom can give your drink a unique twist.
- Play with sweetness: swap out traditional syrups for honey, agave, or even a splash of maple syrup.
All of these drinks are special and unique in their own way, and everyone has their own preferences. While my go-to is a honey almond milk latte with cinnamon powder on top, my mom prefers a good cappuccino, my sister loves a hot French vanilla matcha, and my brother is all about Frappuccino’s. There truly is something for everyone, and a million ways to elevate these classic drinks. Whether you’re new to coffee or a seasoned enthusiast, I hope this blog gave you some inspiration and maybe even taught you something new. The next time you’re at your favorite café, step out of your comfort zone and try something different, you might just find your new favorite drink!