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What is the difference between steamed milk and frothed milk?

Both steamed milk and frothed milk are types of milk that have been heated and aerated with steam, but they have different textures and uses. Steamed milk is smooth and silky, with tiny bubbles that are barely visible. Frothed milk is light and airy, with large bubbles that create thick foam.

frothed-milk-in-making-a-cappuccino

The difference depends on how much air is introduced into the milk during the steaming process. The more air, the more froth.

Steamed milk and frothed milk are not interchangeable. Here we explain the differences, how to make them, and typical expresso-based drinks using steamed and/or frothed milk.

What is steamed milk?

Steamed milk is milk that has been heated using steam, typically from an espresso machine’s steam wand.

During the steaming process, the milk’s temperature is raised, and a small amount of air is incorporated, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture.

Steamed milk is commonly used in beverages like lattes and cappuccinos.

You might also like to read: our recent review on the best cappuccino machines.

What is frothed milk?

Frothed milk is milk that has been aerated and heated using steam, often from an espresso machine’s steam wand.

Unlike steamed milk, frothing involves introducing a larger amount of air into the milk, creating a light and airy texture with a layer of foam on top.

Frothed milk is popular in beverages like cappuccinos and macchiatos.

espresso-drink-using-steamed-and-frothed-milk

Characteristics and uses of steamed vs frothed milk

Steamed Milk Frothed Milk
Less air, less foam More air, more foam
Small bubbles, microfoam Large bubbles, macrofoam
Smooth and silky texture Fluffy and airy texture
Used for lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, etc. Used for macchiatos, flat whites, iced cappuccinos, etc.

How can I make steamed/frothed milk without a steam wand?

If you don’t have an espresso machine with a steam wand, you can still make steamed or frothed milk at home.

steamed-milk-in-making-a-latte

Making steamed milk at home without an espresso machine’s steam wand can be done using alternative methods. Here’s a simple way to make steamed milk on the stovetop:

Ingredients and Tools:

  • Milk
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk or frother
  • Thermometer (optional)

Steps: how to steam milk at home, froth milk at home

  1. Pour Milk:
    2. Pour the desired amount of milk into a saucepan. Use cold milk for better frothing.
  2. Heat Milk:
    3. Heat the milk over medium heat. Stir it gently to prevent scalding.
  3. Monitor Temperature:
    4. If you have a thermometer, monitor the milk’s temperature. Steamed milk is typically heated to around 150-160°F (65-71°C).
  4. Froth the Milk:
    5. As the milk heats, use a whisk or a handheld milk frother to froth the milk. Hold the whisk at a slight angle to incorporate some air.
  5. Continue Frothing:
    6. Continue whisking or frothing until the milk reaches your desired level of frothiness. Be careful not to let it boil.
  6. Remove from Heat:
    7. Once the milk is heated and frothed, remove it from the heat.
  7. Pour and Serve:
    8. Pour the steamed and frothed milk into your coffee or espresso. You can spoon the foam on top for a latte or mix it in for a creamier texture.

Top 3 espresso machines to make steamed milk and frothed milk at home

Here are our Top 3 espresso machines with a built-in steam wand that you can use to make steamed milk and frothed milk at home.

1. Breville Barista Express:

Breville-Barista-Express-steam-milk

View Breville Barista Express on Amazon.com

  • Features a built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee grounds.
  • Steam wand for frothing milk with adjustable temperature control.
  • User-friendly interface with programmable shot volumes.

You might also like to read: our review on the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine.

2. Gaggia Classic Pro:

Gaggia-Classic-Pro-steam-milk

View Gaggia Classic Pro on Amazon.com

  • Known for its durability and classic design.
  • Powerful steam wand for creating microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos.
  • Comes with a 3-way solenoid valve for easy clean-up.

You might also like to read: our in-depth review on the Best Gaggia Espresso Machine Models .

3. De’Longhi Dedica EC685:

DeLonghi-Dedica-EC685-steam-milk

View De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe on Amazon.com

  • Compact and sleek design, suitable for small spaces.
  • Manual frother for creamy frothed milk.
  • Adjustable cappuccino system for various milk drinks.

You might also like to read: our in-depth comparison of the best De’Longhi Espresso Machines.

Summary: steamed milk vs. frothed milk

The main difference between steamed milk and frothed milk lies in the texture and consistency of the milk foam.

Steamed Milk:

  • Steamed milk is created by introducing hot steam into milk.
  • The steam heats the milk and creates a velvety, creamy texture.
  • Steamed milk has a smoother and silkier consistency, with minimal foam.

Frothed Milk:

  • Frothed milk involves creating a layer of foam on top of the milk.
  • This is typically achieved by introducing air into the milk using a steam wand.
  • Frothed milk has a thicker, airy texture with a noticeable layer of foam on the surface.

In summary, steamed milk is characterized by its creamy and smooth texture, while frothed milk has a thicker, foamier consistency.

Both types of milk are commonly used in espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, each contributing to the overall flavor and mouthfeel of the beverage. The choice between steamed and frothed milk depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the desired coffee drink.

FAQ’s

Q1: How is steamed milk different from frothed milk?

Steamed milk and frothed milk are both created by introducing steam into milk, but they differ in the amount of air incorporated and, consequently, in texture. Frothed milk incorporates much more air in the frothing process than does simple steaming.

Q2: Is steamed milk just hot milk?

While steamed milk is indeed hot, the term typically refers to milk that has been heated and aerated using steam, often from an espresso machine’s steam wand. The process involves introducing a controlled amount of steam into the milk, which not only heats it but also creates a certain level of foam and a smooth, creamy texture.

So, while steamed milk is hot, it’s not just about the temperature, it’s about the specific process of using steam to heat and texture the milk.

Q3: Does frothed milk taste sweeter than steamed milk?

The sweetness of frothed milk versus steamed milk is not inherently different based on the texturing process. Both frothed and steamed milk come from the same base ingredient—milk—and any perceived difference in sweetness is likely due to factors such as the overall texture, temperature, and personal preference.

However, the texture of the milk can influence how it interacts with the flavors in a beverage. Frothed milk, with its lighter and airier texture, might provide a different mouthfeel, and this could potentially affect the perception of sweetness. The foam in frothed milk might trap some of the aromas, making the overall flavor experience distinct from steamed milk.

You might also like to read: Tips for brewing a perfect cup of espresso at home.

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Holiday Drinks

If you have an espresso machine, you can use it to make some outstanding Christmas drinks without the expense of visiting your neighborhood Starbucks for their holiday drinks. Here we’ve collected some of our favorite recipes to help you produce some easy Christmas drinks of your own! Check out our holiday recipes below!

For a fun Holiday/Christmas idea, why not set up drink review test with your guests? The Holiday Drink Recipes are all relatively easy (and fun!) to make. Do your own testing with your group: for example, taste test and review Pumpkin Spice Latte vs. Pumpkin Spice Dalgona Coffee. Or do a review of sweet drinks and review and compare Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino vs. Holiday Peppermint Mocha.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

The Pumpkin Spice Latte is a classic holiday drink favorite at your local big-name coffee shop. Here’s our recipe for a Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Ingredients

  • 2 T sugar
  • 2 c of milk (whole or low-fat to your taste)
  • 2 T of canned pumpkin
  • 2 T vanilla extract
  • 1/2 t of pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 -1/2 c espresso (fresh from your espresso machine).

Preparation Instructions

  1. Combine the first three ingredients (milk, sugar and pumpkin) in a medium saucepan and stir over medium heat until steamed
  2. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and pumpkin spice
  3. Put the heated mixture into a blender and process about 10 seconds until foamy or whisk the mixture until foam appears
  4. Pour blended/whisked mixture into a mug, add your espresso and serve immediately!

Pumpkin Spice Dalgona Coffee

If you enjoy Pumpkin Spiced drinks, you will want to give Pumpkin Spice Dalgona Coffee a try.

If you are not familiar with Dalgona Coffee, it is a phenomenon of TikTok and, later, other social media platforms that is made with instant coffee or instant espresso, can be made relatively quickly without exotic equipment, and the result tastes great. The denizens of the internet rapidly discovered that the basic Dalgona coffee drink readily takes many specialty flavorings—including Pumpkin Spice!

Dalgona Coffee Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 T instant coffee or instant espresso
  • 2 T granulated sugar
  • 2 T cold water

Preparation Instructions

  1. Combine coffee, sugar, and water in a medium bowl
  2. Using a hand mixer (or a hand whisk), vigorously mix or whisk until the mixture until it is shiny and silky smooth
  3. Continue mixing until the foamy mixture will hold peaks. Note that this can take 10 or more minutes if whisking by hand—a power hand mixer might be a good investment.
  4. Mostly fill a glass with ice and milk, then add a thick dollop or layer of the foamy mixture—traditionally done with a decorative swirl. Mix the two together if you prefer.

Preparation Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Dalgona Coffee (or Pumpkin Spice Dalgona Latte)

  1. To basic Coffee Dalgona, you can add virtually any flavoring
  2. Pumpkin Spice Coffee Dalgona: Add ¼ t pumpkin spice to the basic sugar/water/coffee mixture.
  3. If you wish to add pumpkin puree for more pumpkin taste, start by adding 1 T of pumpkin puree to the milk and mix before pouring over ice (adding it to the base mixture will make it difficult to get the proper frothing).

Dalgona Coffee is great with many added flavors. For example, you can add:

  • Chai Spices
  • Cocoa powder (for a Mocha flavor)
  • Vanilla
  • Matcha tea powder
  • Crushed freeze dried fruit (like strawberries. Yum!)

Gingerbread Latte

This is a “classic” recipe for Gingerbread Latte. This spiced latte taste delicious and will warm you up in the cooler weather of the holiday season.

Ingredients

  • 2 c of water
  • 1 1/2 c of sugar
  • 2 1/2 t of ground ginger
  • 1/2 t of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 t of vanilla extract
  • 1/2 c of your fresh, delicious espresso
  • 8 ounces of milk, steamed with a little foam (whole milk preferred, or lower fat milk, to your taste)
  • Whipped cream and ground nutmeg to your taste

Preparation Instructions

  1. Prepare gingerbread syrup by combining water, sugar, ginger, cinnamon and vanilla in a saucepan large enough to prevent boil-over of the mixture
  2. Bring mixture to a boil and then simmer the syrup, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Remove the syrup from the heat and cover it with a lid
  3. Make 1/2 cup (a double shot) of espresso with your espresso machine. Prepare 8 ounces of hot milk with your steamer (or a microwave). This is where a nice cappuccino machine can make your day easier and your drink tastier.
  4. Finish your latte by placing the double shot of espresso in a 16-ounce cup. Then add 1/4 cup of gingerbread syrup, and top with the steamed milk. Stir.
  5. Finish off your gingerbread latte with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Enjoy immediately!

This Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino provides that sweet Holiday drink taste you crave during the Christmas season. It is the perfect drink when you crave a drink that is both cold and sweet.

Ingredients

  • 1 c espresso or strong coffee
  • ¼ c plus 2 Tbs of your favorite flavored creamer
  • 1 T chocolate syrup
  • ½ t brown sugar
  • ½ t white sugar
  • 3 T chopped mini chocolate chips
  • 2 T cookie crumbs or 3 crushed Oreos
  • 1-1½ c crushed ice
  • Chocolate whipped cream
  • Cookie crumbs for garnish

Preparation Instructions

  1. Mix coffee, creamer, and chocolate syrup together (cool if you start with hot coffee)
  2. Put coffee mixture in a blender
  3. Add chocolate chips, crushed Oreos, and ice
  4. Blend on high until mixture is smooth
  5. Top with whipped cream and cookie crumbs
  6. Serve immediately!

Holiday Peppermint Mocha

A long-time favorite in coffee shops, this Peppermint Mocha recipe is a drink you can make and enjoy at home (for a fraction of the price).

Ingredients

  • 1/4 c of sugar
  • 1/4 c of water
  • 3 t peppermint extract
  • 3 t powered cocoa
  • 3 t warm water
  • 1/2 c hot espresso
  • 1.5 c steamed milk

Preparation Instructions

  1. Stir water and sugar in a pot and bring to a boil
  2. Reduce heat to a low simmer and add 1.5 t peppermint extract.
  3. Allow mixture to simmer for 20 minutes
  4. Mix cocoa and water in a cup or small bowl to a past consistency
  5. Add espresso and 1.5 t peppermint extract.
  6. Add steamed milk and serve immediately

It’s Easy to Enjoy Your Favorite Christmas Drinks

Kick back and relax with family and friends for the holidays and enjoy some of your new favorite espresso drinks!

You will find that a super automatic espresso machine especially one with a double boiler and steam wand can make these drinks easy to prepare. Here are three great espresso machines to check out:

Related articles:

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Espresso Machine vs Cappuccino Machine?

If you love espresso drinks, you might be considering whether to buy an espresso machine or a cappuccino machine. What is the difference between the two?

What is Espresso?

espresso

Espresso is a coffee drink made using high pressure hot water to extract a concentrated shot of coffee from finely ground coffee beans. This concentrated shot can either be consumed directly (as espresso) or used as the base for various espresso-based drinks, including cappuccinos.

What is Cappuccino?

cappuccino

Cappuccino is typically made by combining equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.

You might also like to read: Our blog on popular espresso-based drinks.

Espresso machines vs Cappuccino Machines

Espresso machines and cappuccino machines are both types of coffee makers, but they serve different purposes and offer different functionalities:

An espresso machine is designed specifically to brew espresso, a strong and concentrated coffee beverage.

It typically uses high pressure to force hot water through finely-ground coffee beans, resulting in a small shot of intense coffee.

Espresso machines often have features like steam wands or frothers to steam milk, which allows users to make various espresso-based drinks such as lattes, macchiatos, and cappuccinos. These machines may come in various types, including manual, semi-automatic, automatic, and super-automatic, offering different levels of control and convenience in the brewing process.

A cappuccino machine is a type of espresso machine that is specifically optimized for making cappuccinos. While it still brews espresso like a traditional espresso machine, a cappuccino machine usually has additional features tailored for creating frothy milk foam, which is a key component of a cappuccino.

Cappuccino machines often include built-in milk frothers or steam wands that make it easy to froth milk to the desired consistency for cappuccinos.

Some cappuccino machines may have preset or programmable settings for producing specific milk foam textures, making them convenient for users who prefer consistency in their cappuccinos.

Type of Espresso Machines

There are several types of espresso machines available in the market, catering to different preferences, budgets, and skill levels. Here are the main types of espresso machines:

Jura-15145-Automatic-Coffee-Machine

  1. Manual Espresso Machines: Also known as lever espresso machines, these require manual operation to create pressure and extract the espresso. They offer complete control over the brewing process but require a certain level of skill and experience to operate effectively.
  2. Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines: These machines automate the water flow, but the user needs to start and stop the extraction process manually. Users can control the shot length, making it easier to brew espresso consistently.
  3. Automatic Espresso Machines: Automatic machines control both the water flow and the extraction time, making the brewing process more convenient. Users can program the machine to dispense a specific amount of water for each shot, ensuring consistency in the espresso.
  4. Super-Automatic Espresso Machines: Super-automatic machines handle the entire espresso-making process, from grinding the coffee beans to frothing milk and dispensing the espresso. These machines are highly convenient and user-friendly, making them suitable for those who want an effortless brewing experience.
  5. Pod or Capsule Espresso Machines: These machines use pre-packaged coffee pods or capsules, eliminating the need for grinding and measuring coffee. They are incredibly convenient and easy to use, making them popular choices for home users who want a hassle-free espresso experience.
  6. Commercial Espresso Machines: Designed for high-volume environments like cafes and restaurants, these machines are robust, durable, and capable of producing numerous shots of espresso quickly. They often come in semi-automatic or automatic configurations.
  7. Single Boiler vs. Double Boiler vs. Heat Exchanger Machines: Espresso machines can have single boilers, double boilers, or heat exchangers. Single boiler machines use one boiler for both brewing espresso and steaming milk, which can be a bit slower when switching between tasks. Double boiler machines have separate boilers for brewing and steaming, allowing simultaneous operation. Heat exchanger machines use a single boiler with a heat exchanger to maintain different temperature levels for brewing and steaming.

You might also like to read: Our review on the best super-automatic espresso machines.

Type of Cappuccino Machines

Breville-Barista-Pro-espresso-machine-in-the-kitchen

Cappuccino machines, also known as espresso machines with milk frothers, come in various types to cater to different preferences and needs. Here are the main types of cappuccino machines:

  1. Steam Wand Espresso Machines: These machines have a built-in steam wand that allows users to froth milk manually. Steam wand machines are found in many entry-level and home espresso machines. They require some skill and practice to froth milk properly.
  2. Automatic Espresso Machines with Milk Frother: These machines have an automatic milk frother or steam wand that froths and steams milk with the press of a button. Users can adjust the milk froth density and temperature settings based on their preferences. These machines are suitable for those who want the convenience of automatic milk frothing.
  3. Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines with Steam Wand: Similar to steam wand espresso machines, these are semi-automatic machines where the user has control over the espresso shot extraction. The steam wand allows manual frothing of milk for cappuccinos. Users can customize the froth and temperature to create the desired milk texture.
  4. Pod or Capsule Cappuccino Machines: These machines use pre-packaged coffee pods or capsules and often come with a built-in milk frother. They are convenient and user-friendly, making it easy to prepare cappuccinos without the hassle of grinding coffee or manually frothing milk.
  5. Super-Automatic Espresso Machines with Integrated Milk Frother: Super-automatic cappuccino machines automate the entire process, including grinding coffee, brewing espresso, and frothing milk. They come with integrated milk frothers that can create creamy milk foam for cappuccinos and other milk-based drinks. Users can customize settings such as milk froth density, temperature, and coffee strength.
  6. Commercial Cappuccino Machines: These machines are designed for high-volume settings such as cafes and restaurants. They often come with multiple steam wands and large boilers to handle continuous milk frothing for a high number of cappuccino orders.

In summary, while both espresso machines and cappuccino machines can brew espresso, a cappuccino machine is specifically designed to facilitate the preparation of cappuccinos by including features for frothing milk, whereas an espresso machine may offer more versatility for brewing various espresso-based beverages beyond just cappuccinos.

You might also like to read: Our recent review on the best cappuccino machines.

Pros and Cons – Espresso Machines vs Cappuccino Machines

When choosing an espresso machine, consider your budget, desired level of control, and the volume of espresso you plan to make regularly. Each type of machine has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to select one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Pros of Espresso Machines

  1. Rich and Concentrated Coffee: Espresso machines produce a strong and concentrated shot of coffee with a rich flavor, often topped with a layer of crema.
  2. Versatility: Espresso machines can be used to make a variety of coffee beverages, including lattes, cappuccinos, Americanos, and more, depending on the machine’s features.
  3. Customization: Many espresso machines allow users to customize the brewing process, adjusting factors such as grind size, water temperature, and extraction time to achieve the desired flavor profile.
  4. Convenience: Having an espresso machine at home or in the office provides the convenience of making your favorite coffee beverages without the need to visit a coffee shop.
  5. Cost Savings: Over time, making espresso-based drinks at home can be more cost-effective than purchasing them from a coffee shop regularly.

Cons of Espresso Machines

  1. Cost: High-quality espresso machines can be expensive, and more feature-rich models may come with a higher price tag.
  2. Learning Curve: Achieving the perfect shot of espresso requires some skill and experimentation. Learning to use an espresso machine effectively may take time and practice.
  3. Maintenance: Espresso machines require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Neglecting maintenance can lead to issues with the machine and affect the quality of the coffee.
  4. Space Requirements: Some espresso machines, especially commercial or advanced home models, can be large and take up a significant amount of counter space.
  5. Initial Setup: Setting up an espresso machine and dialing in the right settings for your preferences can be a bit involved, especially for beginners.

Pros of Cappuccino machines

  1. Versatility: Cappuccino machines often come with additional features such as steam wands, allowing users to froth and steam milk. This versatility enables the preparation of various coffee beverages, including lattes, macchiatos, and other milk-based drinks.
  2. Customization: Many cappuccino machines allow users to customize the strength of the coffee, the amount of frothed milk, and the overall flavor to suit individual taste preferences.
  3. Convenience: Having a cappuccino machine at home or in the office provides the convenience of making a wide range of coffee beverages without the need to visit a coffee shop.
  4. Cost Savings: Over time, making cappuccinos and other espresso-based drinks at home with a cappuccino machine can be more cost-effective than purchasing them regularly from a coffee shop.
  5. Consistency: With practice, cappuccino machines allow for consistent results in terms of the coffee strength, milk texture, and overall beverage quality.
  6. Social Aspect: Owning a cappuccino machine can be a focal point for socializing, as it allows you to prepare and share specialty coffee drinks with friends and family.
  7. Quality Control: Cappuccino machines give users control over the entire coffee-making process, from choosing coffee beans to adjusting brewing and frothing parameters, ensuring a high level of quality and freshness.

Cons of Cappuccino machines

  1. Cost: High-quality cappuccino machines can be expensive, and more feature-rich models may come with a high price tag. This initial investment can be a significant factor for some individuals.
  2. Learning Curve: Using a cappuccino machine effectively, especially those with advanced features, may have a learning curve. Achieving the perfect froth and mastering various settings may take practice and experimentation.
  3. Maintenance: Cappuccino machines require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and hygiene. Neglecting maintenance can lead to issues with the machine and affect the quality of the coffee.
  4. Space Requirements: Some cappuccino machines, especially larger or commercial models, can take up a considerable amount of counter space. This can be a drawback for those with limited kitchen space.
  5. Limited Mobility: Cappuccino machines are generally stationary appliances, which may be a drawback for those who prefer a portable or travel-friendly coffee-making option.
  6. Upkeep Costs: In addition to the initial purchase cost, there may be ongoing costs associated with maintaining and replacing parts of the machine, such as filters, gaskets, or other components.
  7. Complexity: Some advanced cappuccino machines with multiple features and settings may be too complex for users who prefer a straightforward and simple coffee-making experience.
  8. Single Functionality: While cappuccino machines excel at making specialty coffee drinks, they are primarily designed for espresso-based beverages. If someone prefers other types of coffee, the machine’s capabilities may be underutilized.

Summary: Should I buy an espresso machine or a cappuccino machine?

Delonghi-La-Specialista-on-kitchen-counter

Espresso machines or cappuccino machines can produce excellent drinks at the touch of a button. Which should you consider buying? Or, should you buy a machine at all?

Whether you should buy a machine at all is a complex question. How many espressos and/or cappuccinos do you plan on consuming? How much is the added convenience worth to you? See the section on these machines to detail some of the things you may want to consider.

If you are choosing between an espresso machine and a cappuccino machine, remember that cappuccino requires heated and frothed milk. You can make espresso and then use a separate milk frother to make cappuccino, but it is much more convenient to use a cappuccino machine to automate the steps involving milk with a cappuccino machine.

You might also like to read: Our in-depth comparison of the best De’Longhi Espresso Machines.

FAQ’s

Q1: Is Cappuccino just Espresso with milk?

Yes, a cappuccino is made with equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, distinguishing it from plain espresso.

Q2: Difference between Espresso and Americano

Espresso is a concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure. It is made from a specific blend of coffee beans and does not contain any added ingredients.

An Americano is made by diluting a shot of espresso with hot water. It consists of espresso and hot water, and the ratio of espresso to water can vary based on personal preference.

Q3: Difference between Cappuccino and Latte?

A cappuccino is made with equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The ratio is typically 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, and 1/3 milk foam.

A latte is made with one or two shots of espresso and steamed milk. It has a small amount of milk foam on top, usually a thin layer to preserve the creamy texture.

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What is espresso?

Espresso is a coffee drink made by forcing high pressure hot water through a tightly packed container (called the doser or porta filter) of finely ground coffee. This process yields a concentrated coffee beverage that is strong and flavorful. It also results in an espresso drink topped with “Crema,” which is a tasty foam that forms on top of the coffee.

espresso-drinks-in-espresso-glasses
Image credit: Flickr

Espresso might be thought of as the national drink of Italy, where it is enjoyed daily at home, in cafés, and in restaurants. Espresso drinks can be made from any coffee bean; what makes espresso unique is the method of preparation and the fineness of the coffee grind.

Espresso originated in Italy where it is not only a beverage but an inherent part of the social fabric of the country. Espresso delivers a caffeine punch to the drinker; it’s consumed as a wake-up beverage first thing in the morning, like an energy drink during the day, and with meals.

Typically, espresso is served in small cups or glasses that hold only 1 to 2 ounces.

Even though these may resemble a shot glass, the proper way to drink espresso is to sip it–not to drink it all down at once. Espresso is usually consumed unsweetened, but it may be sweetened with sugar or other sweetener, and it may be consumed with a sweet biscuit like biscotti.

Espresso is typically consumed as a single shot (1 ounce) for a double shot (2 ounces). The double shot is called a doppio. Some espresso drinkers prefer a more dilute drink called a lungo (or long) espresso. The lungo is made with the same amount of coffee but with twice the water.

Specialty drinks

Over time, we have developed quite a set of espresso-based drinks that many espresso drinkers prefer.

cappuccino-is-an-espresso-drink
Image credit: Flickr

Coffeehouses have a rich menu of such drinks which helps attract customers. Some of these favorite drinks include:

  • Cappuccino – espresso topped with steamed, frothed milk — often decorated on top.
  • Caffe latte – a double shot of espresso topped with steamed milk.
  • Caffe Americano – a shot of espresso diluted with hot water.
  • Caffe Mocha – add chocolate to a latte.
  • Caffe Macchiato – espresso with a small amount of usually foamed milk (literally translates as “stained” or “marked” coffee.
  • Cortado – equal parts 1:1 ratio of espresso to steamed warm milk.

Since espresso is made from “normal” coffee beans but with a more extreme process of high-pressure water passed through very finely ground coffee, it should be no surprise that all the characteristics of coffee can be found in espresso. However, these tastes and characteristics are amplified by the process of making espresso as are the taste characteristics of your coffee.

Espresso and caffeine

Because of its strong distinctive flavor, espresso has earned a reputation of being high in caffeine, but that is not necessarily so. He single shot of espresso contains approximately the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. The actual amount of caffeine delivered depends on the variety of coffee in the method by which it is brewed.

The acidity of espresso, like brewed coffee, depends on the roast of the beans you are using. Lighter roasts generally taste more acidic than darker roasts.

Buying espresso beans

Like with other coffees, you want to buy fresh roasted, whole, high-quality coffee beans. While these beans may be available from a number of sources, you may find the best results by developing a relationship with a local coffee bean supplier or grinder.

Best-coffee-beans

If you find a merchant that you trust and with whom you can develop a personal relationship, you are likely to be able to get the high-quality beans you want.

Storing espresso beans

Coffee beans are best stored in a cool dark place. There is a debate as to whether it’s best that they be stored in the freezer or not. Some people feel that storing them in a freezer result in the beans picking up more water than they should have. Our personal experience is that freezer storage works well. We leave the beans in their heavy, original packaging, which seems to protect them from freezer or water damage.

Aficionados suggest that once the beans are opened, they have a relatively limited shelf life of one to two weeks. Again, our personal experience is that being stored well in the freezer will last longer than that.

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