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How many coffee types are there?
There are thirteen main types of coffee that are commonly consumed across Australia, but of course there are a lot of variations across the world that reflect the coffee-drinking cultures of different countries and regions.
Short coffees
These options are served in smaller portions and are meant to be sipped and savoured. They are less diluted with milk or water meaning that they are best enjoyed by those looking for a strong and intense flavour from their coffee.
Espresso (Short Black)
The espresso is a key component to almost every coffee out there. But, it can also be enjoyed on its own as a short, strong, silky and intense way of drinking your coffee.
Double Espresso
This is just more of the above. Two shots of espresso and that’s all there is to it. If you are interested in finding out more, check out our double espresso guide.
Macchiato
A short macchiato has the intensity and flavour of an espresso with the addition of a splash of steamed milk and foam on top of it. It’s the perfect introduction to the intensity of an espresso.
Ristretto
A ristretto is an espresso shot but that contains with half of the amount of water. This is by far the strongest and shortest coffee available.
Milk-based coffees
Milk acts as a sweetener to the bitter, strong taste of coffee. Milk-based coffees also tend to be a more filling option for coffee-drinkers.
Latte
A latte is an espresso-based drink topped with steamed milk and a fine layer of milk foam on top. In Australia, it is commonly served in a tall coffee glass.
Cappuccino
A cappuccino is similar to a latte but with one key difference: the cappuccino milk is thicker and foamier and comes with the delicious addition of chocolate sprinkle on top. It is usually served in a cup or a mug, depending on the size ordered.
Mocha
A mocha is an indulgent combination of a cappuccino and a hot chocolate. Chocolate powder is stirred through the espresso shot before thick, foamy milk is added and then topped with a sprinkle of chocolate.
Liqueur coffees
Liquor and coffee can go hand in hand, and quite nicely we might add. Liqueur coffees are a popular after-dinner option and dessert alternative. As delicious as they are, their alcohol content means they should be consumed responsibly and in moderation. Looking for more? Check out our recommended best coffee cocktails.
*This recipe contains alcohol, please enjoy responsibly.
Irish Coffee
An Irish coffee consists of espresso, Irish Whiskey, sugar and thick cream. The coffee is drunk through the cream that sits on top.
*This recipe contains alcohol, please enjoy responsibly.
Affogato
An affogato is a dessert coffee made by placing a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a double shot of espresso.
Espresso Martini
This cold, espresso-based cocktail is made with vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup and is commonly served in a martini glass with two coffee beans resting on the surface.
*This recipe contains alcohol, please enjoy responsibly.
Which type of milk should I use?
Milk will play a big part in how your coffee ends up tasting. Generally speaking, full cream milk offers the creamiest and foamiest milk and is therefore best for cappuccinos, lattes, mochas and other drinks that include milk foam. This is because it is the fat content within milk that produces a thick and creamy finish. Non-fat milk is more suited to thinner milk-based coffees such as flat whites. For those seeking a dairy-free alternative, soy milk has a good level of ‘stretch’ meaning that it can create milk foam. Almond milk is another popular option as it has the potential of creating a silky foam but it does have a tendency to separate when heated.
Want to explore all the varieties of coffee out there?
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