Whether you choose to enjoy your espresso shot by itself or in a crafted drink such as an espresso macchiato, the possibilities are endless. In this guide, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about espresso, including how best to enjoy it, ideal food pairings, and our top-recommended espresso-based drinks to try at home.  

Understanding espresso: More than just strong coffee

Far more than simply a stronger version of regular coffee, espresso is a unique brewing method that extracts deeper flavors and aromas from coffee beans.

Here are a few aspects that set espresso apart from its caffeinated companions: 

● Served by the shot – An espresso shot is a small, 1-ounce serving of concentrated coffee. The Italian method of forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans under high pressure yields its full-bodied texture and robust flavor.

● Crowned with crema – A distinctive feature of espresso is the golden crema—the honey-colored foam that sits atop the shot. Fine espresso crema is a sign of a well-pulled espresso, adding a delightful texture and dryness to the overall experience.

While there are alternative brewing methods, such as stovetop espresso makers or pod-based machines, true Italian espresso can only be made with the high pressure of a dedicated espresso machine.

The art of drinking espresso

Now let’s talk about how to drink espresso and enjoy it to the fullest. 

There is no “right” way to consume this beverage. However, if you were to find yourself in the heart of an Italian cafe, you might find a few differing opinions on the subject. 

So, what is the art of drinking espresso? Here are a few tips:

● Appreciate the aroma – Take a moment to bring the espresso cup close and savor its delightful scents before you take your first sip. 

● Stir, sip, or skip the crema – This delicate, golden foam is actually the most complex part of espresso. You may wish to sip it as part of the espresso experience, but there is nothing wrong with stirring espresso to mix it in or even skimming it off entirely.

● Take small sips – A small espresso shot can be tempting to finish in one sip. While that’s perfectly fine, a well-crafted espresso is best sipped and appreciated like a fine wine.

The goal is to appreciate and savor an espresso’s entirety—from the syrupy texture and intense burst of flavor to the rich, lingering aftertaste. But again, there are no strict rules, so long as you enjoy the experience. Learning the art of coffee cupping is another way to develop a deeper appreciation for coffee’s complex flavors. 

Pairing food with espresso

Espresso's complex flavors pair wonderfully with many foods. The next time you pull a shot or two, consider some of these pairings:

● Chocolate – From pure dark chocolate to caramel-filled candies, this classic combination never disappoints. 

● Sparkling water – A side of sparkling water served alongside espresso is an Italian cafe tradition, allowing you to cleanse your palate between sips. 

● Cheese – Strong, aged cheeses like Parmesan or Gouda go surprisingly well with espresso. Its smoky richness balances the cheese's sharper notes.

Sweet or savory, an espresso’s pointed notes act as an ideal foil to bring out the best of many meals. 

Popular espresso-based drinks

While classics like a latte, cappuccino, or espresso martini never go out of style, why not get a little adventurous with your next espresso-based drink or recipe? Here are a few unique favorites to get you started:

● Espresso affogato – Watch as a fresh shot of espresso cascades over a scoop of cold, velvety vanilla ice cream. It's a delightful dessert drink that marries intense flavor with a creamy sweetness. Try adding whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a particularly decadent experience!

● Sparkling Americano – Mix three parts of sparkling water with one part espresso and an equal amount of orange juice for a zesty sweetness. Gently rub a slice of orange peel along the rim and serve as a garnish for this refreshing twist on your coffee drink.

● Cafe Cubano – Add a layer of brown sugar atop your finely ground and tamped espresso before brewing. As the espresso drips through, it naturally blends with the brown sugar, creating a balanced and aromatic espresso.

Of course, you can always experiment with whatever flavors and combinations you prefer, and discover your own espresso-based masterpieces!

Enjoy the best espresso experience with Breville

Savoring espresso is an artful experience—one where there is no single "correct" path, only endless possibilities to explore. 

However, as you experiment with different beans, food pairings, milk types, and recipes, one thing will become certain: the right equipment can make all the difference in the taste of your espresso.

This is where Breville comes in. At Breville, we offer innovative espresso machines, coffee grinders, and accessories that give you artisanal espresso-making capabilities. With Breville, you have everything you need to not only craft—but truly master—the perfect espresso shot. Elevate your next espresso drink with our assortment of coffee machines and café-quality products!

Sources: 

1. Taste of Home. What is Espresso? https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/what-is-espresso/

2. Bon Appetit. Here’s the Carbonated Coffee Drink Your Morning Actually Needs. https://www.bonappetit.com/story/carbonated-coffee-drink-espresso-orange