Coffee isn’t just a morning pick-me-up—it’s a passion, a ritual, and for many people, a lifestyle. At the heart of this passion lies espresso, the strong and concentrated coffee that serves as the base for countless café favorites. If you’ve ever walked into a coffee shop and felt overwhelmed by the menu, you’re not alone. With so many types of espresso drinks available, it can be tricky to know what each one means and which might suit your taste.
The good thing is that once you understand the basics, making these espresso drinks becomes exciting rather than confusing. From bold, pure shots of espresso to creamy milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos and even refreshing iced options, there’s something for every coffee lover. In this guide, we’ll break down 20 different espresso drinks, explaining what makes each one unique.
What is Espresso?
Espresso is a strong, concentrated form of coffee made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans under high pressure. Unlike regular brewed coffee, which drips slowly through a filter, espresso is brewed quickly—usually in about 25 to 30 seconds. This process creates a small but powerful shot of coffee with a bold flavor, rich aroma, and a creamy layer of foam on top, known as the crema.
Espresso is special because it’s the foundation of many popular coffee drinks. From cappuccinos and lattes to macchiatos and mochas, almost all the types of espresso drinks you’ll find in a café start with this single shot of espresso. That’s why understanding what espresso is—and how it works—is the first step to appreciating the wide world of coffee beverages.
Another key difference is the strength. A single shot of espresso may be small in size, but it’s packed with caffeine and flavor. This makes it perfect for people who want an intense coffee experience or a quick energy boost.
Why Espresso Drinks are So Popular
Espresso drinks have become a global favorite, and it’s easy to see why. They’re bold, versatile, and can be enjoyed in so many different ways. Whether you like your coffee strong and black or creamy and sweet, there’s always an espresso-based option that matches your taste.
One big reason for their popularity is speed and convenience. Espresso is brewed in under a minute, making it the perfect choice for busy mornings or quick breaks. Unlike regular drip coffee, which takes time to brew, a shot of espresso delivers instant energy with rich flavor.
Another reason is variety. From the smooth creaminess of a latte to the strong punch of a doppio, espresso drinks can be adapted to any mood or occasion. Want something refreshing on a hot day? An iced latte or an espresso tonic will do the trick. Looking for comfort on a cold evening? A cappuccino or mocha can warm you right up.
Espresso drinks are also popular because of the coffee culture surrounding them. Across the world, people gather in coffee shops not just to drink espresso, but to socialize, work, or simply relax. This cultural connection makes espresso more than just a drink—it becomes an experience.
In short, espresso drinks are loved for their quick preparation, endless variety, and the sense of community they bring. That’s what makes exploring different types of espresso drinks so enjoyable.
20 Types of Espresso Drinks
Now that you know what espresso is and why it’s so popular, let’s dive into the 20 types of espresso drinks you can enjoy.
A. Classic Espresso Shots
1. Single Espresso
The most basic form of espresso—a single shot served in a small cup. Strong, bold, and slightly bitter, it’s perfect for people who like coffee in its purest form.
2. Double Espresso (Doppio)
As the name suggests, this is two shots of espresso in one cup. Twice as strong, it’s the go-to option for coffee lovers who need an extra kick of caffeine.
3. Ristretto
A short shot of espresso is made with the same amount of coffee grounds but less water. The result is a richer, more concentrated flavor that’s intense yet smooth.
4. Lungo
The opposite of ristretto, a lungo is a “long shot” brewed with more water. This makes the flavor slightly milder but still strong enough to satisfy espresso fans.
B. Milk-Based Espresso Drinks
5. Macchiato
In Italian, macchiato means “stained.” It’s a shot of espresso with just a dash of steamed milk or foam, giving it a bold flavor with a creamy finish.
6. Cappuccino
One of the most popular espresso drinks worldwide. It’s made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The result is a balanced mix of strong coffee and creamy texture.
7. Latte
Known for its creaminess, a latte is made with one shot of espresso and plenty of steamed milk, topped with a light layer of foam. It’s smooth, mild, and often flavored with syrups like vanilla or caramel.
8. Flat White
Originating from Australia and New Zealand, the flat white is similar to a latte but with a stronger espresso-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam layer on top.
9. Mocha
Perfect for chocolate lovers, a mocha blends espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup, often topped with whipped cream for extra sweetness.
10. Cortado
A Spanish favorite, the cortado is equal parts espresso and steamed milk. It balances the strength of espresso with the softness of milk, without overwhelming either flavor.
C. Iced and Cold Espresso Drinks
11. Iced Latte
Just like a regular latte but served cold. Espresso is poured over ice and mixed with chilled milk, making it refreshing and light—especially on hot days.
12. Iced Americano
Iced Americano is made by pouring espresso over cold water and ice, this drink is crisp, refreshing, and less creamy than an iced latte.
13. Affogato
More of a dessert than a drink, the affogato combines a scoop of vanilla ice cream “drowned” in a hot shot of espresso. Creamy, sweet, and bitter all at once.
14. Espresso Tonic
A trendy modern drink where a shot of espresso is poured over tonic water and ice. It’s fizzy, refreshing, and slightly bitter—ideal for adventurous coffee drinkers.
D. Specialty and Flavored Espresso Drinks
15. Red Eye
A mix of regular drip coffee with one shot of espresso. Strong and highly caffeinated, it’s a favorite among people who need serious energy.
16. Black Eye
Similar to the Red Eye, but with two shots of espresso added to brewed coffee. Twice the strength, and definitely not for the faint-hearted!
17. Vienna Coffee
Vienna coffee is a classic European treat made with espresso, topped with whipped cream instead of milk. It’s rich, sweet, and luxurious.
18. Caramel Macchiato
A flavored twist on the classic macchiato. It’s espresso layered with milk, foam, and caramel syrup, offering a sweet and creamy taste.
19. Dirty Chai Latte
A chai tea latte (spiced tea with milk) combined with a shot of espresso. It’s warm, spiced, and energizing—perfect for when you want both tea and coffee.
20. Irish Coffee (Espresso Version)
A bold mix of espresso, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream. It’s a warming after-dinner drink, often enjoyed as a treat rather than a daily coffee.
Quick Comparison Table of Espresso Drinks
With so many choices, it helps to see the differences side by side. Here’s a quick guide comparing the types of espresso drinks we’ve covered:
| Drink Name | Espresso Shots | Milk/Foam | Flavor/Extras | Taste Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Espresso | 1 | None | None | Strong, bold, bitter |
| Double Espresso | 2 | None | None | Very strong, intense |
| Ristretto | 1 (short shot) | None | None | Rich, concentrated, smooth |
| Lungo | 1 (long shot) | None | More water | Milder, slightly bitter |
| Macchiato | 1 | Small foam splash | None | Bold with creamy hint |
| Cappuccino | 1 | Equal milk & foam | None | Balanced, creamy, smooth |
| Latte | 1 | Lots of steamed milk + foam | Optional syrups | Mild, creamy, smooth |
| Flat White | 1–2 | Steamed milk (microfoam) | None | Stronger than latte, velvety |
| Mocha | 1 | Steamed milk + foam | Chocolate syrup | Sweet, chocolatey, rich |
| Cortado | 1 | Equal steamed milk | None | Balanced, smooth |
| Iced Latte | 1 | Cold milk + ice | Optional syrups | Light, refreshing, creamy |
| Iced Americano | 1–2 | None | Cold water + ice | Crisp, refreshing, bold |
| Affogato | 1 | None | Vanilla ice cream | Sweet, creamy, bitter-sweet |
| Espresso Tonic | 1 | None | Tonic water + ice | Fizzy, refreshing, bitter |
| Red Eye | 1 | None | Brewed coffee | Very strong, bold |
| Black Eye | 2 | None | Brewed coffee | Extra strong, intense |
| Vienna Coffee | 1–2 | Whipped cream | None | Rich, sweet, indulgent |
| Caramel Macchiato | 1 | Milk + foam | Caramel syrup | Sweet, creamy, smooth |
| Dirty Chai Latte | 1 | Steamed milk | Chai tea & spices | Spiced, warm, energizing |
| Irish Coffee (Espresso) | 1 | Cream | Irish whiskey + sugar | Bold, warming, indulgent |
Final Thoughts
Espresso is more than just a quick caffeine fix—it’s the foundation of an entire world of coffee experiences. From the bold simplicity of a single shot to the creamy comfort of a latte or the adventurous fizz of an espresso tonic, the different types of espresso drinks offer something for every mood and every coffee lover.
Exploring these 20 espresso-based drinks is not only fun but also helps you discover what best matches your taste. Do you love strong, no-nonsense flavors? A ristretto or doppio might be your favorite. Prefer something sweet and comforting? A mocha or caramel macchiato could hit the spot. Looking for refreshment on a hot day? Try an iced latte or affogato. The options are endless!
The best part is that you don’t need to limit yourself to the café menu. You can make many of these drinks right at home with a few tools and a little practice. Experiment, try new flavors, and enjoy the process—because coffee isn’t just about drinking, it’s about creating moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between espresso and regular coffee?
Espresso is brewed under high pressure using finely ground coffee, creating a small, concentrated shot with a rich flavor and crema on top. Regular coffee is usually brewed by drip or pour-over methods and has a milder taste.
How many types of espresso drinks are there?
There are countless espresso drinks, but the most popular ones include classics like espresso, cappuccino, latte, macchiato, mocha, and several iced and specialty drinks. In this guide, we covered 20 widely enjoyed types.
Can I make espresso drinks at home without an espresso machine
Yes! You can use a Moka pot, AeroPress, or even a strong drip coffee as a base to create espresso-like drinks. Frothing milk and adding flavors can help you recreate lattes, cappuccinos, and other café favorites.
What is the difference between a latte, cappuccino, and flat white?
A latte has more milk and a thin layer of foam, making it smooth and creamy. A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam for a balanced texture. A flat white has a higher espresso-to-milk ratio with velvety microfoam, giving it a stronger coffee flavor.
Which espresso drink is best for beginners?
If you’re new to espresso, start with a latte or cappuccino. They are milder, creamy, and easy to enjoy while you get used to the strong flavor of espresso. Once comfortable, you can explore bolder drinks like a ristretto or doppio.
Zakir Hossain is the accountant of Dan Foods Limited (Dan Cake BD). He loves his family, and whenever he gets an opportunity to spend leisure time, he utilizes it by brewing coffee and enjoying it with his family. He has a beautiful baby girl name Sara Zakir.
