Italian coffee is a big part of everyday life in Italy. It’s not just a drink but a tradition. From morning cappuccinos to afternoon espressos, coffee is enjoyed throughout the day. Each type, like the strong espresso or the creamy cappuccino, has its own place in Italian culture. The focus is on simple, high-quality coffee, and there’s no room for sugary, oversized drinks.
When in Italy, ordering coffee can be a bit different. Italians usually stand at the bar to enjoy their coffee and rarely drink milk-based coffee after 11 a.m. There are many types of coffee to try, each with its own unique taste and time to enjoy it.
Coffee in Italy has a rich history, dating back to the 1500s, and it’s an integral part of Italian culture. Whether you love strong coffee or something sweeter, Italian coffee has something for everyone. This guide is perfect for coffee lovers curious about Italian coffee culture or anyone looking to try something new with their favourite drink.
Types of Italian Coffee
Here are 10 types of Italian coffee drinks you need to know about:
Cappuccino
A cappuccino is a popular Italian coffee made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. It’s typically served in a small cup, giving it a stronger and creamier taste compared to other coffees. The name “cappuccino” comes from the brown colour of the Capuchin monks’ robes.
In Italy, cappuccinos are usually enjoyed in the morning, often with a pastry. This is because the milk is believed to interfere with digestion if consumed later in the day. However, it’s still okay to drink one after noon, especially in social settings.
There are different types of cappuccinos, such as cappuccino chiaro (with more milk), cappuccino scuro (with more coffee), and cappuccino secco (just foam and espresso). In summer, some people enjoy an iced cappuccino.
Although there are rules about when and how to drink cappuccinos in Italy, this versatile drink can be customised with extras like cocoa or cinnamon. It’s loved all over the world for its rich, smooth flavour.
Caffè macchiato
A macchiato is an Italian coffee made by adding a small amount of milk or foam to espresso. The word “macchiato” means “stained” or “spotted” because the milk “stains” the coffee. It’s usually served in a small espresso cup, and it’s less creamy than a cappuccino.
Unlike cappuccinos, which are mostly drunk in the morning, you can enjoy a macchiato anytime. It’s perfect for people who like espresso but want a little milk to soften the taste.
There are two main types: caffè macchiato, which is just espresso with a little milk, and latte macchiato, where espresso is added to milk to create a layered drink.
Macchiatos are often drunk in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up, but not after a meal. You can also ask for hot milk (macchiato caldo) or cold milk (macchiato freddo), depending on your preference. It’s a great option for those who want a coffee that’s not as strong as espresso but still flavourful.
Espresso
Espresso is a strong, concentrated coffee made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans. It’s served in a small cup and topped with a creamy foam called crema. This coffee is the base for many other drinks, like lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos.
In Italy, when you order “un caffè,” you’re asking for a shot of espresso. It’s typically enjoyed throughout the day and is known for its bold and rich flavour. Espresso is made using a 1:2 ratio of coffee to water, giving it a strong taste.
Espresso can be customized with sugar or even liquor, like in a “caffè corretto,” where a shot of grappa or sambucca is added. A perfect espresso is brewed in about 25-30 seconds at the right temperature, with freshly ground coffee beans.
Loved all over the world, espresso is quick, powerful, and forms the base for many other coffee drinks. Whether you drink it straight or as part of another coffee, it offers a strong, flavorful experience.
Americano
An Americano is a coffee made by adding hot water to espresso. This gives it a taste similar to regular black coffee but with the strong, bold flavour of espresso. The drink is said to have been created during World War II when American soldiers in Italy watered down their espresso to make it more like the coffee they were used to.
In Italy, a caffè Americano is served in two parts: one shot of espresso in a larger cup and a small jug of hot water to add to the espresso, letting you make it as strong or as weak as you like. It’s a milder option than regular espresso and is often drunk in the morning, but it can be enjoyed at any time.
The Americano has a smoother taste than straight espresso but still keeps the rich flavour. It’s ideal for individuals who enjoy espresso but prefer a slightly lighter option. You can also add milk or sugar to adjust the taste. While it’s not originally Italian, it’s a popular choice in coffee shops around the world as a simple and satisfying option.
Caffè latte
A caffè latte is an Italian coffee made with espresso, steamed milk, and a small amount of milk foam. It’s smooth and mild, making it a good choice for people who want coffee without the strong taste of espresso. In Italy, you should order it as “caffè latte” because “latte” by itself just means milk.
This drink has more milk than other coffee drinks like cappuccinos, making it less strong. The milk is steamed to create a smooth texture, and it’s usually served in a tall glass or mug. You can also add flavours like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut to customize it.
Lattes are often enjoyed in the morning with a pastry, but they can also be a good treat in the afternoon. You can even find iced versions, called latte ghiacciato, which are great for warm weather. Whether you like it hot or cold, a caffè latte is a comforting and popular choice for coffee lovers.
See Also: Costa Coffee Menu And Prices
Caffè corretto
Caffè corretto, or “corrected coffee,” is an Italian drink made by adding a splash of alcohol to espresso. The alcohol, usually grappa, sambuca, or brandy, “corrects” the strong taste of the espresso, making it smoother and warmer. Some regions may use different spirits, like amaretto or rum.
This drink is typically enjoyed after meals, especially in the evening, and is often used to help with digestion. Grappa is more common in northern Italy, while sambuca is preferred in the south.
Caffè corretto is easy to make at home by adding a small amount of liquor to espresso. It’s usually sipped slowly and is a cozy way to finish a meal. While it’s not a daily drink, it’s a popular choice in Italian coffee culture, often served after lunch or dinner.
Marocchino
A marocchino is a small Italian coffee made with espresso, cocoa powder, and milk foam. It combines the strong taste of espresso with the sweetness of chocolate. The drink is served in a small glass, often topped with more cocoa powder, making it both tasty and visually appealing.
Despite its name, “marocchino” doesn’t come from Morocco. It’s actually from northern Italy, and the name refers to the drink’s colour, which resembles the light brown of Moroccan leather. Some places add extra flavours like Nutella, cinnamon, or hot chocolate powder to make it even more delicious.
Marocchino is a great option if you like a coffee that’s not as strong as a mocha but still richer than a regular latte. It’s perfect for a cozy treat or to enjoy after a meal, offering a sweet and creamy coffee experience in a small, satisfying cup.
Shakerato
Caffè shakerato is a popular Italian iced coffee made by shaking espresso, ice, and sometimes sugar or liqueur in a cocktail shaker. The result is a smooth, frothy drink that’s usually served in a martini-style glass, making it a refreshing choice during the summer months, from May to October. You can add amaro or whipped cream for extra flavour.
This drink is simple and cooling, with the shaking process creating a nice froth on top. It’s a great option for people who like iced coffee but want something a bit more special. Caffè shakerato is typically only available in the summer when bars use cocktail shakers.
In Italy, you can ask for it “dolce” (sweet) with sugar or “amaro” (bitter) with liqueur. It’s a stylish way to enjoy espresso on hot days, offering both refreshment and a caffeine boost. If you’re in Italy during the summer, make sure to try a caffè shakerato.
Affogato
Caffè affogato is a simple yet luxurious Italian dessert made by pouring a hot shot of espresso over a scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream. The contrast of the hot espresso and cold ice cream creates a delightful blend of bitter and sweet flavours, with the ice cream melting into a creamy, smooth mixture. This treat is often enjoyed as a post-meal dessert or as a special pick-me-up.
The name “affogato” means “drowned” in Italian, referring to how the espresso “drowns” the ice cream. Although the classic version uses vanilla gelato, variations can include different flavours of ice cream or a splash of liqueur like amaretto to enhance the flavour.
Caffè affogato is a quick and easy dessert that requires minimal preparation, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. It’s a favourite among coffee and dessert lovers alike, offering a rich, satisfying combination of coffee and sweetness.
Whether served with a biscotti for dipping or enjoyed on its own, affogato is a simple yet indulgent way to combine your love for coffee and dessert.
Ristretto
Caffè ristretto is a stronger version of espresso made with the same amount of coffee but less water. This makes it more concentrated, with a smoother, sweeter flavour and less bitterness. The shot is smaller, but the taste is much bolder and richer.
The word “ristretto” means “restricted” in Italian, referring to how it’s made with less water. It’s a great choice for people who want a powerful coffee flavour without the harshness of regular espresso. Ristretto can also be used as a base for drinks like lattes, giving them a bolder taste.
This coffee is perfect for those who like their coffee strong and smooth, and it’s enjoyed in small sips. It’s popular with people who love the deep flavour of coffee without the bitterness.
See Also: Latte vs Cappuccino
How To Make Italian Coffee?
To make authentic Italian coffee at home, you can use either an espresso machine or a stovetop moka pot. For the moka pot, add water to the base and medium-fine ground coffee to the filter, then heat it slowly until the coffee flows into the top chamber.
For espresso, grind dark roast beans to a fine consistency, tamp them into the portafilter, and brew at 9 bar pressure for a rich, concentrated shot with crema. Whether using a moka pot or an espresso machine, the key is to use high-quality, finely ground beans and enjoy the strong, flavorful brew immediately.
Where To Buy Italian Coffee?
If you’re craving authentic Italian coffee, you can easily find it at Italian grocery stores, speciality coffee shops, or online stores like Amazon, Eataly, and Supermarket Italy. Popular brands like Lavazza, Illy, and Kimbo offer great options, or you can try smaller, family-owned roasters for something special.
If you want to smell the beans before buying, head to local Italian delis and cafés that sell premium coffee. You can also search “Italian coffee near me” on Google Maps to find the best spots nearby.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Italian coffee is an important part of daily life in Italy. From a strong espresso to a creamy cappuccino, each type has its own special taste. By learning about the “Types of Italian Coffee,” you can better appreciate Italy’s coffee culture.
With the right tools and good-quality beans, you can enjoy these drinks at home. Whether you like a bold ristretto or a sweet affogato, there’s an Italian coffee just for you.
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