With so many coffee choices, it can be tough to make the right pick. You can experiment with drip coffee all day long and still be unsure what makes espresso different from regular coffee, or how to differentiate a latte from a cappuccino. So much to learn! Let us try to explain so we can help you enjoy your favorite options.
Types of Coffee Beans
Coffee is a brewed drink made from coffee beans, which are actually the roasted seeds of the coffee plant. What kind of beans you use, where you get them and how much heat they receive all change the taste & smell of your cup o' joe. There's two main types of coffee...Arabica & Robusta. (Unless you like to add a splash of syrup and whipped cream, then the possibilities are endless!).
Arabica
Have you ever noticed those fancy looking coffee bags that claim to be made with “100 percent Arabica” beans? Well, there is a reason they are so popular - they make the best brew! Arabica beans are considered higher quality than Robusta, and they’re also more expensive. They result in coffee with a sweeter, less harsh taste.
Robusta
Robusta beans are the budget friendly option for coffee lovers - they cost less to grow, give you more of a caffeine kick and tastes quite bitter. These bad boys are usually used for instant coffee and espressos. So, if you like an extra strong cup of joe, these beans have got you covered!
Types of Hot Coffee Drinks
Black Coffee
When you're looking for a pick-me-up, black coffee is the simple answer. It's made with nothingbut pure coffee grounds, hot water, and a sprinkle of caffeine - no frills or gimmicks needed! And if you think it's lacking in flavor, just remember that none of us like our coffee bland - some of us just like it less sweet.
Decaf
Caffeine lovers don't need to worry, there's still plenty of coffee out there just for them! But for those looking to cut down or cut out caffeine altogether, decaf is here to the rescue. Roasters use special processes that help strip all the caffeine out of coffee beans so you can still enjoy a cup a joe without the jitters.
Espresso
Ever wondered why espresso has such a punch? Well, it's not just because it looks cooler in the cup; it actually contains more caffeine than regular coffee. The difference between the two is that espresso is brewed for a shorter amount of time at higher pressure, making it more intense and flavorful than your average cup of joe. Espresso beans are basically the same as regular coffee beans but they're ground finer and brewed with more grounds than plain ol' coffee. So, if you want that perfect espresso shot, don't forget those extra few steps! Sure, one-ounce of espresso can be powerful enough to keep you going all day... but why not go for something more fun and indulgent like lattes and cappuccinos?
Latte
Espresso and steamed milk come together in harmony to create this classic beverage. But don't let that stop you from customizing it - why not try some delicious flavors like vanilla or pumpkin spice, or go non-dairy with oat milk? A talented barista can create latte art that looks more like a masterpiece painting than a cup of coffee!
Cappuccino
Think of this drink as a stronger latte with an extra frothy layer. It's made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk and foam, served in a teeny-tiny 6oz cup - perfect for when you need that caffeine boost! Plus, you can sprinkle it with cinnamon to make it even more delightful.
Iced Coffee
When the temperatures rise, there's nothing better than a refreshing glass of iced coffee. All you need is to brew your favorite cup of hot coffee & cool it over ice. Then add some milk and sweeteners for that extra kick!
Frappe
Fancy a slushy-style coffee or espresso? If that's up your alley then you should check out the range of iced beverages available! It usually involves some type of milk, flavored syrup & fluffy whipped cream - yum!