Cup(s) of Joe: A Brief Guide to the Different Types of Coffee

Do you know how many different types of coffee there are? The answer is that over 100 species of coffee exist in the wild. They all make beans that you could make into different types of coffee.

Today’s coffee popularity means you have many options when choosing your cup of Joe. Read on to learn about all types of coffee and coffee drinks.

Different Types of Coffee Roasts

There are four different types of coffee roasts. Light roasts have a milder flavor and a lighter brown color. They’re roasted for a shorter time, so oils don’t break through their surface.

Medium roast or American roast has a stronger flavor and medium brown color. Medium-dark roast is rich and dark-colored with some surface oil. It has a slight bittersweet aftertaste.

Dark Roasts create shiny black beans that have an oily surface. Dark roast is bitter and has less acidity than lighter coffees. This roast can range from slightly dark to charred.

Types Of Coffee Drinks

As coffee shops pop up all over, we’re often asked, “Do you want a coffee?” Now you have many options to choose from, but do you know what to order?

Black Coffees

Black coffee is simply coffee and water. There are several types of black coffee. Italy made expresso famous by forcing high-pressure steam into ground coffee beans. This creates a thick coffee with creamy foam on top and a high caffeine level.

Ristretto or Italian describes a shot of espresso with half the amount of water. Americano has more hot water mixed with an expresso to make a weaker version.

Long black has two ristretto or espresso shots with a little water. Doppio is a double espresso shot passed through the portafilter using a double spout. This is often considered the standard espresso shot.

Caffè Breve

Caffè breve starts with one-quarter espresso. Then add ½ milk foam and ½ steamed half-and-half milk for a thicker beverage.

Cappuccino

For cappuccino, combine 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, and 1/3 foamed milk. Enjoy this hot or with ice, cream, or other flavorings.

Cold Brew Coffee

For cold brew, mix ground coffee with cold water and refrigerate overnight. Strain to remove coffee grounds before serving.

Cortado

Cortados contain an equal amount of espresso and steamed milk. This drink is flat without any froth.

Flat White

Flat white coffee contains espresso with a small amount of steamed milk. The espresso flavor dominates.

Latte

Caffè latte includes espresso with a lot of milk. It also has foamed milk on top.

Latte Macchiato

Latte Macchiato translates to “stained milk”. It’s properly served in a tall glass of milk “stained” with espresso and topped with foam.

Macchiato

If you like strong coffee, order a macchiato. This is an espresso shot with just a dash of milk.

Mochaccino

Mochaccinos have a double shot of espresso, foamed milk, and other flavorings. Top with chocolate syrup, cocoa powder, cinnamon, or whipped cream.

Piccolo Latte

This is a small latte made in a 100 ml glass. The barista pours warm milk over a shot of ristretto.

Need a Cup While in Brisbane?

If you’re in Brisbane, Australia, check out Cubby House Coffee. They’re coffee roaster and cold brew specialists. Enjoy the flavors developed over many years of experience.

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