The Americano is a popular coffee drink that combines espresso and hot water. But how to make an Americano? With just a few ingredients and steps, you can easily make this coffee drink at home.
What is an Americano?
An americano is made by adding hot water to espresso. This dilutes the espresso, giving it a similar strength to drip coffee. The end result is a lighter, milder coffee drink that still packs a punch of caffeine and contains many benefits. You can read more about Americano health benefits in our blog posts.
How to Make an Americano
Making an American at home is a breeze. You’ll need:
- Espresso machine, Moka pot, or Nespresso to brew espresso
- Hot water
- Cup
- Spoon for stirring
Brewing the Espresso
Brewing the espresso shot is the first and most important step. This will provide the rich, intense espresso flavor that is diluted by the hot water.
If Using an Espresso Machine
Grind fresh espresso beans to a fine consistency. The grind should be powdery, like grains of sand.
Fill the espresso filter basket with ground espresso, using about 15-18 grams of coffee per shot.
Tamp down the grounds evenly and firmly. Proper tamping helps extract the coffee flavors and oils.
Lock the portafilter into the group head and start the extraction.
Let the machine pull the shot for around 25-30 seconds. This will produce 1-2 ounces of concentrated espresso.
If Using a Nespresso
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for brewing a single shot of espresso.
For Nespresso, use one of the “espresso” style pods to get an authentic short shot.
If Using a Moka Pot
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for brewing a single shot of espresso.
For the Moka pot, make sure to use finely ground coffee and not overfill the basket.
Adding Espresso to Hot Water
Heat fresh water to 195-205°F. This hotter temperature helps extract the best flavor from the espresso.
Fill a cup about halfway with the hot water. Leave room for the espresso shot.
Slowly pour the freshly brewed espresso into the hot water. It will float on top initially.
Gently stir to incorporate the espresso with the water. Mix until evenly blended.
Taste and adjust the ratio if needed by adding more hot water or espresso.
Enjoy your fresh homemade americano!
Additional Ingredients
Customize your espresso-based coffee drink by adding:
- Sugar or sweetener
- Milk, cream, or non-dairy milk for richness
- Flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or pumpkin spice
Different Types of Americano Recipes
Let’s see how to make different types of americano:
1. Long Black
The long black contains more hot water, making it lighter in body and flavor compared to a standard americano.
To make a long black:
– Use a taller, narrower glass
– Add 3-4 oz hot water
– Brew espresso shot directly into water
– Stir gently to incorporate
The long black highlights the bright, floral notes of the espresso. It’s a great option for those who find a regular americano too intense.
2. Red Eye
A red eye gets its name from the “red” appearance when a shot of drip coffee is added to the espresso and water.
To make a red eye:
– Brew a single shot of espresso
– Brew a single shot of drip coffee (about 2 oz)
– Add hot water to a cup
– Pour in the espresso and drip coffee
– Stir to mix
The drip coffee adds body and an extra caffeine kick. It also balances the acidity of the espresso.
Read More: How to Make Red Eye Coffee?
3. Americano Misto
An americano misto incorporates steamed milk for a touch of creamy sweetness.
To make an americano misto:
– Brew espresso shot
– Add hot water
– Steam and froth 2-4 oz of milk
– Pour steamed milk into americano
The milk provides a nice contrast to the strong espresso and mellows out the bitterness.
Iced Americano
An iced americano combines chilled water and espresso over ice for a refreshing, cold take.
To make an iced americano:
– Brew hot espresso
– Fill a glass with ice
– Add cold water and espresso
– Stir gently to mix and chill
How to Make an Americano?
Ingredients
1 Shot of Espresso (1 Ounce or 30ml)
6-8 Ounces of Hot water
Sugar (Optional)
Milk or Cream (Optional)
Directions
Brew a shot of espresso using an Espresso Machine, a Moka Pot, or Nespresso.
Pour hot water in a cup or mug, and leave some space at the top for the espresso shot.
Pour the espresso shot into the cup of hot water.
Combine the espresso and water by Stiring it gently.
Add sugar based your preference. Taste the Americano and adjust its bitterness and sweetness.
For a milder flavor or some creaminess, add a small amount of milk or cream to the Americano and stir it well.
Serve and enjoy your hot Americano!
Americano recipe Guide
Conclusion
With its simple ingredients and preparation, a homemade americano is an easy way to enjoy a nice hot drink. Experiment with different beans, water temperatures, and added flavors until you find your perfect cup!