Traditional Coffee Drinks
Coffees from all over the world come in many different styles, from light and intense espresso drinks to sweeter and creamier options like lattes and cappuccinos, and even cold concoctions like frappuccinos and iced coffees.
A traditional cappuccino is a classic Italian espresso-based beverage, made with equal parts espresso, frothed milk, and milk foam. It’s a creamy and rich-tasting option that provides a satisfying dose of caffeine. The warmth of the espresso and the frothy milk come together to make a delicious pick-me-up.
If you’re in search of something a bit sweeter and more indulgent, a latte may be just the thing. Lattes are composed of steamed milk and a shot of espresso with a dusting of cocoa, cinnamon, sugar, or other toppings for added flavor. For those looking for a boost of sweetness without having to add extra sugar, latte drinks typically come with a pump of flavored syrup added in.
Frappuccinos® are a cold, bubble-filled treat popularized by Starbucks. The drink is a blend of ice, coffee, milk, and flavoring syrup. Depending on the type of syrup used, these creamy drinks can be quite sweet, but if you opt for a lighter frappuccino such as a Green Tea Frappuccino®, you still get the caffeine hit without the added sugar content.
If you’re looking for a coffee drink but don’t want the richness of a latte or cappuccino, an iced coffee may be the way to go. This can be prepared cold or hot and served over ice. Iced coffee is typically made with cold-brewed coffee, which has a slightly smoother, less acidic taste than hot brewed coffee. To make it a bit more delicious, add flavored syrup or some whole milk for a richer, creamier version.
Ready-to-Drink Coffee Drinks
If you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to get your coffee fix, ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages may be the answer. Popularized by Starbucks, RTD coffees are pre-made and bottled for convenience. With a range of flavors and options like cold brew, latte, and espresso, there’s something for everyone.
Cold brew is a smooth, subtly sweet, and less acidic coffee. Starbucks’ line of bottled cold brew beverages are flavored with natural ingredients like coconut milk and vanilla, or sweetened syrups. As it’s made in large batches, it tends to be cheaper than pouring a freshly-brewed cup, and it lasts much longer in the refrigerator.
If you’re looking for a sweeter but still low-fat option that won’t give you a sugar-meltdown, Starbucks also offers a range of bottled and canned espresso drinks, such as espresso and cream, latte macchiatos, and cappuccinos. Most are made with a combination of espresso, milk, and natural flavors, and although they tend to be sweetened, they still provide that espresso hit without being overly sugary.
There are also a variety of non-dairy and low-calorie options made with alternative milks, such as almond, oat, and even coconut. These can be a great option if you’re trying to watch your calorie intake while still enjoying a yummy and indulgent coffee drink.
Specialty Coffee Drinks
Specialty coffee drinks are usually more expensive than traditional coffee drinks, but they can be quite inventive and delicious. Popularized by coffee shops across the country, these drinks often come with fancy names and presents a bit of theatre when served to you.
Tumeric lattes, for instance, are a recent trend that combines the popularity of turmeric with the all-time favorite cup of coffee. These spicy drinks are made with frothy milk, espresso, turmeric, and spices like cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon. Even just a small cup can give you an energy boost while keeping your digestive tract healthy.
Other specialty coffee drinks include deconstructed cappuccinos, which are served in separate layers of espresso, whipped cream, and steam milk. For an exotic twist, there are also affogatos, which consist of a scoop of gelato served over a shot of espresso. The sweetness of the ice cream is balanced by the kick of coffee.
Rooibos tea lattes are also a popular option among those looking for a coffee alternative. Combining the sweetness of rooibos tea with the creamy texture of steamed milk, this drink is an interesting twist on the classic latte. It’s also a great option for those who want to cut back on their caffeine intake but still want some flavor in their drink.
Customized Drinks
For those looking for something really unique, request a custom-made drink from your local coffee shop. Baristas everywhere will be more than happy to come up with something special for you, so let your imagination run wild! Whether you want to add extra shots of espresso for that extra oomph, or make your traditional latte a bit sweeter by adding a few pumps of syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon, the possibilities are endless.
You can also opt for a decaf option or a reverse macchiato — a shot of espresso on top of the steamed milk — if you’re looking to experiment with a bit of caffeinated coffee. You can also explore other coffee options like chicory and matcha. Whether you’re after a complex coffee or a simple creation, the baristas at your local cafe or coffee shop will be happy to whip up something special for you.
Conclusion
No matter what type of coffee lover you are — be it a caffeine junkie or someone looking for a sweet and smooth alternative — there’s a coffee drink out there for you. With the wealth of options on the market, from traditional espresso drinks to customized creations, there’s something for everyone. Just use your imagination, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect addition to your morning routine.