The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Coffee Drinks

The world of coffee encapsulates a diverse range of flavors, techniques, and cultural traditions. Let’s explore the various types of coffee drinks that cater to every taste and preference. Whether you’re looking to expand your coffee knowledge or find your new favorite brew, understanding these different drinks can enhance your coffee experience. 

Coffee Drinks Explained

The vast array of coffee drinks available today is a testament to the bean’s adaptability and enduring popularity across different cultures and culinary traditions. The coffee bean is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into numerous forms depending on the preparation method, the ratio of coffee to other ingredients, and regional preferences. This diversity is largely driven by varying taste preferences and the desire for personalization in the coffee drinking experience. 

Drip Coffee Drip coffee is one of the most common brewing methods in the United States. It involves using a machine to pour hot water over ground coffee, which then drips through a filter and into a pot. This method is prized for its hands-off approach and the large quantities it can produce.	Pour Over Pour over is a method that involves manually pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a filter. The water drains through the coffee and filters into a mug or carafe. This technique allows the brewer to control the extraction more precisely, resulting in a clean and flavorful cup.
French Press A French press, also known as a press pot, brews coffee by steeping ground beans in hot water and then pressing the grounds out. This method captures more of the coffee’s oils and flavors, offering a richer and fuller-bodied cup compared to drip coffee.	Cold Brew Cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for several hours, typically overnight. The result is a smooth brew that is less acidic than coffee made with hot water.
Iced Coffee Iced coffee is essentially hot brewed coffee that is cooled down and served over ice. Unlike cold brew, iced coffee tends to retain the acidity and flavor profile of its hot-brewed counterpart but with a refreshing coolness.	Espresso Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee that is the base for many coffee drinks. It’s made by forcing hot water through very finely ground beans, resulting in a rich, strong brew with a layer of crema on top.
Americano  An Americano is made by diluting a shot of espresso with hot water, giving it a similar strength to drip coffee but with a different flavor profile due to the espresso’s unique extraction process.	Long Black Similar to an Americano, a long black is made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water, resulting in a strong yet slightly diluted drink.
Cappuccino A cappuccino is a coffee-based drink made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and frothed milk. It’s creamy, delicious, and often served with a dash of cocoa powder or cinnamon.	Latté Similar to a cappuccino, a latté consists of espresso with more steamed milk and a light layer of froth. It is creamier than a cappuccino and is popular in coffee shops around the world.
Breve A breve is an American variation of a latte, made with steamed half-and-half, giving it a richer, creamier texture.	Café au Lait A café au lait is a coffee drink that combines brewed coffee with steamed milk and a light layer of foam. It is milder than a standard latte due to the inclusion of brewed coffee instead of espresso.
Macchiato A macchiato is an espresso with a small amount of milk that is usually frothed. It’s stronger than a cappuccino or latte and highlights the espresso’s robust flavor.	Flat White Originating from Australia and New Zealand, a flat white is similar to a latté but with a higher proportion of espresso. This drink is characterized by its velvety texture and strong coffee flavor.
Cortado A cortado is an espresso with a small amount of warm milk to cut the acidity. The milk in a cortado is not frothy and textured like in many other coffee drinks.	Red Eye A red eye is a drip coffee with an added shot of espresso, perfect for those looking for an extra caffeine boost to start their day.
Black Eye A black eye is similar to a red eye but contains two shots of espresso, doubling the caffeine and intensifying the flavor.	Doppio A doppio is a double shot of espresso served in a demitasse cup. It’s favored by espresso lovers who appreciate a more intense flavor.
Vienna A Vienna coffee consists of two shots of espresso topped with whipped cream instead of milk or froth. This traditional Austrian drink is rich and indulgent, offering a delightful contrast between the strong espresso and the light, sweet cream.	Affogato An affogato is a simple dessert coffee that features a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with a shot of hot espresso. It’s a delightful blend of hot and cold.

Where To Buy Coffee for Your Favorite Brew

To discover delicious coffee in the form of whole beans, grounds, or OneCUP™ pods, shop San Francisco Bay Coffee today!