The Best Italian Coffee Drinks That You Will Love

If you are looking for a new Italian coffee drink to be your favorite then you should check out these popular drinks.

Italy’s coffee culture is renowned worldwide, blending art and taste into every cup. Each coffee variety has unique preparation methods, origins, and cultural contexts. Below is a journey through some of the most iconic Italian coffee drinks, their recipes, and the stories behind them.

Basic Italian Coffee Types

Caffè (Espresso)

The cornerstone of Italian coffee culture, espresso is made by forcing steam through finely-ground coffee beans. It is intense, rich, and typically served in a small porcelain cup. Espresso originated in Italy in the early 20th century, credited to Angelo Moriondo’s invention of the espresso machine in 1884. Today, it remains a quick and bold pick-me-up enjoyed throughout the day.

Caffè Macchiato

“Macchiato” translates to “stained” or “marked”, referring to an espresso stained with a small dollop of milk foam. This drink balances espresso’s boldness with a hint of creaminess. It is perfect for those who enjoy espresso but desire a milder profile. 

Popular across Italy, it reflects the adaptable nature of coffee culture in the country. While available in any bar, some restaurants who are only open for dinner might not be able to offer it because of the Italian aversion to having milk later in the day. In that case, go with the espresso.

Other Popular Coffees In Italian Coffee Shops

Caffè Lungo

Lungo translates to “long.” It is similar to espresso but uses more water, creating a milder but more caffeinated drink. While not quite as mild as an American coffee, it has evolved as a less intense alternative to espresso while maintaining its richness.

Caffè Americano

The Caffè Americano is an espresso diluted with hot water, resulting in a coffee similar in volume to American drip coffee but retaining the flavor of espresso. As the story goes, this drink gained popularity among Americans during World War II when soldiers sought a more familiar coffee experience.

It is a delicious brew, one I’ve had a couple times, but you are still holding Italian coffee culture at arms length, despite the Italian name of the drink.

Cappuccino

Perhaps Italy’s most famous coffee, cappuccino is an equal blend of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.  The name comes from the hoods of the Capuchin friars, but in this context, referring to the color of the beverage when milk is added in small portions to dark, brewed coffee.

This creamy delight is traditionally consumed for breakfast in the morning and is rarely ordered after 11:00AM. Italians believe milk hinders digestion later in the day, which is why ordering one after lunch will get you a quizzical look from the barista.

More Milky And Chocolatey Italian Coffee Types.

Caffè Latte

You may already have heard of this drink because a popular warning to tourists is to not order simply a “latte”, which is common in the US. If you order that way in Italy, you will get a glass of hot milk.

The more milk-forward drink is similar to a cappuccino, but a caffè latte consists of espresso and steamed milk with a light foam topping. Often served in a tall glass, it is a popular choice for breakfast. Its name directly translates to “milk coffee.”

Caffè Marocchino

Probably an influence on those nasty overly sweet drinks at popular coffee chains in the US, a Marocchino combines espresso, a touch of cocoa powder, and milk froth. This small indulgence, while not as over the top as a frappuccino, is usually served in a glass to showcase its layered presentation. It is thought to have originated in Alessandria, in northern Italy.

Specialty and Dessert Coffee Drinks

Caffè Corretto

A bolder, evening-friendly option, caffè corretto (meaning “corrected coffee “) adds a splash of grappa, brandy, or other liquors to espresso. This drink is often enjoyed as a digestif after meals, particularly in colder months. 

As one who has only enjoyed this drink once, here is my recommendation: if you mistakenly order a grappa, order an espresso and make your own caffè corretto. This might be the only way to get down that nasty grappa. I’m not a fan.

Caffè Shakerato

This might be considered the Italian equivalent of iced coffee when consuming it out at a bar. There are more iced coffee options for home use, but when you are out on a hot day, these beauties are a treasure to consider.

A shakerato is made by shaking freshly brewed espresso with ice and sugar, resulting in a frothy, chilled coffee. It’s often served in a martini glass, giving it an elegant appeal.

Frappé

The Italian frappé is a blended iced coffee, made with espresso, milk, and sugar. This creamy and cooling beverage is a summer staple in many Italian coffee bars, providing a sweet escape from the heat.

Don’t confuse this with the equally delightful Frappè fritter. These Italian sweets or also known as Chiacchiere are a crunchy fried or baked pastry dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate.

Crema al Caffè

A dessert-like drink, crema al caffè is made with espresso and a rich, sweetened cream base. It is served cold, often in small cups, making it a popular treat during warm weather.

More To Italian Coffee Culture Than Cappuccino

These diverse Italian coffee drinks offer not just the art of brewing but also the deep cultural ties between Italians and their beloved drink. Whether you’re sipping a bold espresso in Rome or enjoying a creamy marocchino in Milan, every cup tells a story of craftsmanship, tradition, and passion.