That’s because a drip coffee maker like the Bunn coffee maker is easy to use, relatively more affordable, can brew coffee in large quantities, doesn’t need high maintenance, and can give you a great cup of coffee in the morning in no time (thanks to some of the models that can be pre-programmed).
But it’s important to know how much coffee to use in Bunn coffee maker to keep the coffee tasting consistent.
Read on to find out how much coffee for Bunn 12 cup or 10 cup coffee maker would be ideal.
That’s 6 to 12 scoops of coffee to put into the filter basket. If you want to weigh coffee using a scale instead, two tablespoons are roughly 10 grams.
A general rule of thumb recommended by Bunn is to use a brewing ratio of 10 tablespoons of coffee per 50 ounces of water. This translates to using 1 tablespoon of coffee for 5 ounces of water.
Another point to note is that the coffee cup size in many coffee makers, including Bunn, is 5 ounces instead of the standard 8 ounces cup that we are used to.
Therefore, for making 12 cups of coffee in the Bunn coffee maker, you need 12*5=60 ounces of water. Since you need 10 tablespoons of coffee for every 50 ounces of water, for 60 ounces of water, you need 12 tablespoons of coffee.
In other words, to make coffee in a 12 cup Bunn, you need 12 tablespoons of coffee or 60 grams (since 2 tablespoons are 10 grams).
How much coffee to put in Bunn coffee maker depends a lot on how strong or weak you want your coffee.
For weak coffee, you could try using 10 tablespoons of coffee instead of 12. In weight, that’s 50 grams of coffee. On the reverse side, for a stronger cup of coffee, you could use 14 tablespoons or 70 grams of coffee.
As mentioned earlier, the number can vary between 12 and 24 tablespoons of coffee per 12 cup coffee maker.
How Much Coffee Do You Put In A 10 Cup Bunn Coffee Maker?
Considering 5 ounces of water for every cup, you need 5*10=50 ounces of water for the 10 cup Bunn coffee maker.
Sticking to the recommended coffee to water brewing ratio, if you need 10 tablespoons of coffee for every 50 ounces of water, then that’s a straightforward 10 tablespoons or 50 grams of coffee.
Of course, you can take it up to 20 tablespoons or 100 grams of coffee depending on how strong or weak you want your coffee.
How Much Coffee To Use In A Bunn Commercial Coffee Maker
Bunn coffee makers are frequently seen in industrial kitchens or offices.
People typically purchase pre-measured bags of ground coffee from the same supplier who provides the coffee maker in order to save time and maintain consistency.
Use 2 tablespoons (10 grams) of coffee per cup. Use 24 tablespoons if your coffee machine holds 12 cups.
If you’re new to a Bunn coffee maker, you should get to know how to do the initial set-up and use the machine properly for balanced coffee.
Safety and Health Impacts of Using a Bunn Coffee Maker
Coffee brewed in a Bunn coffee maker is generally safe and healthful, but there are a few possible dangers that should be considered. Incorrect usage of a Bunn coffee maker can result in burns due to the high temperatures required to brew coffee.
Additionally, if you use a Bunn coffee machine, you should know that the filters should be changed periodically since they may contain toxins that may leech into your coffee.
Finally, Bunn coffee makers might be a health danger if they are not cleaned frequently because of the presence of germs and mould.
Potential for burns from high temperatures
Chemicals in the filters can leach into the coffee
Bacteria and mold can accumulate if not cleaned regularly
What Is The Bunn Brewing Difference?
To get a great cup of flavorful and rich coffee without any bitterness, the “3T” in the brewing process should work in perfect tandem – temperature, time, and turbulence.
So what makes the Bunn coffee maker different from other automatic drip machines?
The inbuilt hot water tank of the Bunn coffee machine for ready-to-brew coffee keeps water at the recommended brewing temperature of about 200°F (93°C).
The quick 3-minute cycle of the Bunn brewer is ideal for making coffee that’s the most flavorful with the least amount of bitterness.
Over-extracted, harsh flavors are produced by brew cycles when ground coffee is exposed for longer than 6 minutes.
The special spray head design of the Bunn coffee maker produces just the perfect amount of turbulence to suspend the ground coffee and fully and evenly extract the flavor.
Water drips straight through most coffee makers, not equally exposing all coffee grains to the water, thus failing to give you a robust cup of coffee.
Feature
Explanation
Temperature
The inbuilt hot water tank of the Bunn coffee machine keeps water at a recommended brewing temperature of 200°F (93°C).
Time
The quick 3-minute cycle of the Bunn brewer is ideal for making flavorful coffee with the least bitterness. Over-extracted and harsh flavors are produced by brew cycles over 6 minutes.
Turbulence
The special spray head design of the Bunn coffee maker produces the perfect amount of turbulence to suspend the ground coffee and extract the flavor evenly.
Tips To Use Your Bunn Coffee Maker For The Best Coffee Ever!
Follow these tips to get the most out of your Bunn coffee maker.
Fill the thermal carafe with hot water and let it sit for around 30 seconds to pre-heat. Before brewing coffee, empty the full carafe.
They are designed for strength and made with a particular grade of paper. The sides are taller, preventing overflow and coffee grounds from entering the cup. So, always use Bunn filters.
Always use fresh coffee beans and grind them right before brewing. You can adjust the amount of coffee to your preferred strength.
Avoid using decaf coffee or fine-grind coffee or soft water as these could overflow into the decanter. Choose a medium grind instead.
Use enough coffee – fill up to approximately 1 and ½ inches of coffee in a flat-bottom filter or one to two heaping tablespoons per cup.
If you want to keep coffee for longer than 20 to 30 minutes, use a thermal carafe.
Coffee can be kept in a thermal carafe for roughly two hours or in a glass decanter for up to 30 minutes.
After brewing, discard the filter and the grounds right away to avoid letting any undesirable flavors that were held in the old coffee grounds soak through.
At least once a week, wash your Bunn brewer with mild dish soap and water, paying specific attention to the spray head region.
Never use any soap or cleansing agent that has citrus additives.
Wash and clean the decanter daily.
Avoid mixing old brewed coffee with freshly brewed batches.
FAQs
How Much Coffee Do You Put In A 12-Cup Bunn Coffee Maker?
In a 12-cup Bunn coffee maker, put 12 to 24 tablespoons of coffee according to the coffee strength preference.
How Much Coffee Do You Put In A 10 Cup Bunn Coffee Maker?
Put at least 10 tablespoons of coffee in a 10-cup Bunn coffee machine and adjust the amount of coffee according to your coffee strength preference.
How Much Coffee Do I Need For A 64 Oz Bunn?
If you need 10 tablespoons of coffee per 50 ounces of water, for a 64-oz Bunn, you need about 13 tablespoons of coffee.
What’s the point of spending hundreds of dollars on a premium espresso machine like Breville only to have mediocre and bland coffee?
The reason why you are having a hard time making great coffee is probably that your espresso machine is filthy! The problem with espresso machines is, you can not tell whether they need a thorough cleaning or not. So having a routine helps a lot.
A proper process is also important to get the best cleaning result. In this article, we will discuss how to clean the Breville espresso machine the best way!
You will find an easy guide on how to clean breville espresso machines as well as some tips and tricks to maintain its quality over time!
If you want to keep your Breville espresso machine in its best condition, descaling is essential. You have to descale once a month to get a steady water flow and tasty coffee.
You might be wondering what descaling is and how it’s different from regular cleaning. Regular cleaning removes dirt and grimes whereas descaling removes buildups.
Whether you use tap water or filtered one, the water contains many minerals. Over time these minerals build up inside and create a thick, tough layer. Usually, it’s calcium and can be removed quite easily. Breville barista express manual is very helpful for this.
All you need is vinegar and water. Keep in mind that vinegar can cause a bad smell that tends to linger for a few days. You can buy descaling solutions that do the same job without any bad odor.
How to descal Breville espresso machine
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Set your Breville Espresso machine to “stand by” mode. Then unplug the machine from its electrical outlet.
The next thing you need to do is fill the water tank with water and your preferred descaling liquid. In our case- vinegar. Use a 50:50 ratio of water and vinegar if you have hard water.
The next thing you have to do is place a container in the drip pan. This will catch any water and vinegar mix.
Plug your Breville espresso machine and turn it on. When you see the orange temperature light glowing, it’s time to brew.
Select the “Espresso” mode and let the machine run that vinegar-water mixture through its system.
Position the steam over your container and press the “Steam” option. At this point, the solution will start coming out of the wand.
As the liquid comes out, it will bring all the grimes and buildups with it.
Repeat this process a few times if you are not satisfied yet. Then run three to six more cycles with clean water to remove the vinegary smell. And that’s how you descale Breville espresso machine.
Regular Cleaning:
Remove Filter:
We all forget to do this everyday but we need to remove the filter holder right after brewing. Empty the used coffee grounds in the trash and then clean it under running water. Use a scrubbing brush if necessary. This takes only 2 minute but keeps your machine pristine for years.
Brew Plain Water:
After you have put the empty filter in the machine, brew with pain water for ten to fifteen seconds. Then gently dispose of the hot water into the sink. This step helps to remove coffee residue from the brewer.
Wash Froth Enhancer:
One of the appeal of a home espresso machine like Braville is its froth enhancer. You need to clean it regularly too. Always pull out the froth enhancer right after using it to clean. Use warm water to rinse it.
Clean The Drip Tray:
Yes, you need to clean the drip tray regularly. Empathy it into the sink and give a gentle wash with warm water. If necessary, you can use dishwashing liquid too. Always let the tray dry completely before putting it back inside the Breville espresso machine.
Wipe the Exterior:
Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe down the exterior. As you touch the espresso machine every day, dirt and bacteria sit on top of it. Each time you touch the machine, you get exposed to them. So wiping the machine every day keeps it clean and new.
😷 Safety Precautions
Unplug the machine from the power source before cleaning.
Wear protective gear such as gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask.
Avoid using any harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia.
Use mild detergent solutions instead.
Keep the machine away from water to avoid any water damage.
Dry the machine completely after cleaning.
How Do You Make Coffee in a Breville Espresso Machine?
We could write dozens of different recipes you can do with your Breville Espresso machine. But for now, let’s stick to the basics. Here’s how you make a striking, sharp espresso with Breville Barista Express:
01. Select Coffee Beans:
No matter how fancy and expensive your espresso machine is, without good coffee beans, the whole effort is basically a waste of time. Don’t use basic options. Instead, go for Robusta beans in a blonde roast. You can use Arabica beans in a darker roast for a smooth and nutty flavor.
There are honestly so many different coffee beans to choose from and each has its unique flavor profile. So pick something that you really love.
02. Choose Grind Size:
Whether you want a fine grind or a coarse one, you need to decide first. Finer grind provides a more intense flavor with higher caffeine content whereas coarse grind is smoother. Ideally, you need a very finely ground to make a great espresso. For a single shot of espresso, you need between 7-9 grams of coffee. Everything is about weight and timing in espresso making.
03. Bring out the Portafilter:
Fill the portafilter and level it gently with your hand. It should be evenly distributed. Then place it on a countertop and apply even pressure with your tamper. This is one of the most satisfying steps of espresso making.
04. Start the Brew:
Now it’s time to make the espresso. Run the machine without the portafilter to purge the group head. Then lock it in place and start the brew. You might not get it on the first try but the more you do, the better you get at it. The first shot usually looks light caramel brown. It should look viscous and voluminous. Taste it to see if it’s sour or not. If the shot tastes a bit sour, grind the beans for next time.
And that’s it! Your single-shot espresso is ready to enjoy!
Some routine upkeep might prevent problems with your Breville espresso machine. Be cautious to descale the equipment on a regular basis to avoid mineral buildup. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe off the steam wand and other moving parts.
If you don’t use a filter on your Breville espresso machine, it will have heavy calcium and magnesium buildup from your water.
Most of our tap water is actually hard water with a high acidic level and is filled with many minerals. These miners can create a layer inside the machine causing it to get clogged.
Adding a filter slows down that process. With a filter, you will have to descale your Breville Barista Express once a month. But without it, you might have to do that 2-3 times a month. That’s just a lot of work for something that can be fixed easily.
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To flush your Breville espresso machine, all you have to do is press the 2 CUP button. This will run hot water through the group head for 30-35 seconds. Then activate the steam for 10 seconds.
Repeat this cycle a few more times until the water tank is totally empty. Your Breville machine will be properly flushed.
FAQs
How Often Should I Clean My Breville Espresso Machine?
If you drink coffee every single day, you should clean your Breville espresso machine once every three weeks. If you drink coffee more than once a day, you need to clean more frequently. The calculation is simple. The more you use your espresso machine, the more you have to clean it. Breville espresso machine cleaning should be a regular thing and not something you only do when it’s malfunctioning. If you drink coffee sparsely then clean your Breville espresso machine once a month.
How Long Do Breville Espresso Machines Last?
Breville is known for its premium quality construction and durable materials. Each of their espresso machines and Barista Coffee maker is built to survive years and years of abuse. If you take care of your Breville espresso machine and clean it on a routine basis, it can serve you easily for more than 6-10 years! Breville is a reliable brand for passionate coffee lovers. They don’t create disposable products.
How Do You Flush A Breville Coffee Machine?
To flush your Breville espresso machine, all you have to do is press the 2 CUP button. This will run hot water through the group head for 30-35 seconds. Then activate the steam for 10 seconds. Repeat this cycle a few more times until the water tank is totally empty. Your Breville machine will be properly flushed.
Why Is My Breville Espresso Not Working?
There can be many reasons why your Breville espresso machine is not working properly. One of the most common reasons is a blockage in the water reservoir. When the water can not travel properly in front of the reservoir to the espresso machine, it does not work. This can happen due to not cleaning the machine on a regular basis. Sometimes air bubbles get stuck and cause a disruption in the water flow. To avoid this from happening, always let the machine rest for 15-20 minutes after each use. Remove old water and add clean, filtered water every day. You can try back-flushing the machine to remove any blockage.
How Do I Descale My Breville Grind Control?
One of the many unique things about the Breville espresso machine is its grind control system. With this, you can adjust the grinding size depending on your preference. The customizable grind size and coffee volume are ideal to suit anybody’s taste. When it’s time to descale your machine the message, “dESC ” appears on the LCD screen. It’s ideal to descale as soon as you see that message. To descale all you have to do is press the carafe button and select a strength level. Use a pre-ground level for the best result. Use a mixture of vinegar water and pour it into the water tank. The display usually says “4 CUPS”. Then press the carafe button and rotate the dial to 12 cups. Press the “Strength” button until the descaling process begins. When the process completes, the screen will send a message saying “READY”. This is how you know your Breville Grind Control has been cleaned thoroughly.
Takeaway
If your espresso machine is dirty, there is no chance of making a single cup of good coffee in it. The Breville espresso machine is not a simple kitchen gadget. It’s a commitment for the most passionate coffee enthusiasts. To them, cleaning and maintaining this beast of a machine is a part of the joy.
As espresso machines like Breville are made to last you years after years, taking care of it is an investment in itself. Hopefully, with our easy guide, you now know how to clean breville espresso machine properly.
Have some tips for us? Let us know in the comments down below!
Are you a boba lover on the hunt for your next fix? Well, I can’t really blame you! It’s the craze that has taken over the world of TikTok and Instagram!
Starbucks is no exception! That’s right, the coffee giant has jumped on the boba bandwagon. They recently added some bubble tea drinks to its menu, made with the chewy tapioca pearls that boba lovers know and love.
However, many people complain that it is not the same as the traditional boba shops! Also, it’s not available everywhere.
Well, what’s the real deal then? Do they really offer boba? In this post, I’ll give you the inside scoop on taste, price, and more about Starbucks boba options.
So, grab your straw, and let’s dive into the world of Starbucks boba!
Does Starbucks Have Boba?
To answer this question, you need to understand what boba is in the first place. Because Starbucks doesn’t mention any boba drinks on their menu!
[su_note note_color=”#7CF7B2″ text_color=”#1B1A1A”]🧋 Boba (also known as bubble tea) is a Taiwanese drink consisting of black tea, milk, ice, and chewy tapioca pearls. It comes in a variety of flavors such as taro, mango, and strawberry, and can contain varying amounts of caffeine depending on the type of tea used. [/su_note]
Yes, Starbucks has boba. However, they aren’t calling it “boba” right now. They’re currently testing out their own version of boba-style iced coffee (starting from December 2021) in some locations, according to a business insider post.
She explained the taste of her drink as “oddly salty-sweet”!
Customers can customize their drinks to mimic traditional boba tea-style beverages.
Starbucks isn’t the first to hop into this bubble tea trend. Dunkin Donuts has started offering a popping boba drink using “popping bubbles”. Other fast-food chains such as Sonic, and Caribou Coffee also offer variations on bubble tea.
The Starbucks Boba Menu
As we mentioned, Starbucks is testing two new drinks with boba-style ‘coffee popping pearls’ in select locations.
[su_note note_color=”#7CF7B2″ text_color=”#1B1A1A”]🧋 The two drinks are an Iced Chai Tea Latte with Coffee Pearls and an In the Dark, a cold-brew drink playing off the classic drink “A”. The Coffee Popping Pearls are filled with Brazilian coffee and burst when bitten into.
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The coffee-popping pearls have a texture reminiscent of tapioca pearls or boba and are made from cassava root.
The coffee-popping pearls are made of calcium lactate dissolved in distilled water and strained after 4 hours of rest time or overnight, explains Amaya Oke from Honest Food Talks.
Starbucks Boba is a combination of Starbucks coffee and bubble tea pearls, creating a sweet, cold milk coffee with an exciting pop of coffee-popping pearls.
Starbucks Boba Tea Prices
[su_note note_color=”#7CF7B2″ text_color=”#1B1A1A”]💰 The Iced Chai Tea Latte with Coffee Pearls is priced at $5.45. “In the Dark” which is a cold-brew variation of the classic “A Shot in the Dark” or “Redeye” costs $5.25.
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Both drinks come in the 16-ounce Grande size.
Coffee-popping pearls are similar to boba but made with coffee instead of tea.
Note that, Starbucks has not yet officially released the prices for these drinks, but they are expected to be comparable to other Starbucks beverages.
Starbucks Boba Locations
[su_note note_color=”#7CF7B2″ text_color=”#1B1A1A”]📍 At the time of writing, the test beverages are only available in these two locations: Palm Desert, California (73030 El Paseo) and Bellevue, Washington. So, customers will need to visit either of these two locations to try out Starbucks’ take on boba.
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The move by Starbucks to add boba to its menu has been met with positive reception from customers. However, it is unclear if these coffee boba drinks will be available at other Starbucks locations and become a permanent item.
Keep an eye out for updates about the new drinks, and hope that the testing of them is successful enough for Starbucks to add them to your local store.
Starbucks Boba Nutrition Facts
The nutrition facts for Starbucks Boba drinks vary depending on the size and ingredients.
Drink
Size
Calories
Carbohydrates (g)
Sugar (g)
In the Dark coffee-based
16 oz (Grande)
220
67.5
N/A
Frappuccino
Standard
420
N/A
66
For example, a 16-ounce Grande In the Dark coffee-based drink contains 220 calories and 67.5g of carbohydrates, while a standard Frappuccino contains 420 calories and 66g of sugar.
Generally, boba tea contains 272 calories, 0.8mg of sodium, 67.5g of carbohydrates, 0.7g of fiber, 2.5g of sugars, and 0.1g of protein per 76 grams or ½ cup, according to Very Well Fit.
How to Order Boba at Starbucks?
Boba tea fans shouldn’t write off their favorite coffee chain just because they don’t sell boba tea just yet.
Even while Starbucks doesn’t sell boba tea in all its stores, you may order drinks that taste similar to them thanks to the store’s extensive list of drink customization choices.
Coffee jelly is an alternative, but it doesn’t have the same chewy feel as pearl tea, so keep that in mind.
Use the Starbucks App
The best way to order a boba-like beverage from Starbucks is to customize a drink via their app that has the basic elements of boba, minus the tapioca pearls.
This is a great choice for boba enthusiasts who want to enjoy their favorite drink while also taking advantage of the convenience and loyalty program offered by the app.
Raspberry Milk Tea
Starbucks offers fruit-flavored alternatives to boba or bubble tea. If you like the raspberry taste, the best-recommended option is the Raspberry Milk Tea from Starbucks.
This will produce milky, fruit-flavored milk teas that are comparable to the traditional boba, or bubble tea served in Asian teahouses since many boba tea beverages come with sweetened fruit syrup.
Here is the list of the customizations you may ask for (add or deduct according to your liking):
Get me a grande iced black tea, no sugar, please!
Ask for half milk and half water (you can also request dairy-free milk)
Request to add 1.5 pumps of toffee nut syrup (or 2 if you’re using a venti)
Put in 1.5 pumps of raspberry syrup (or 2 if you’re using a venti size)
Add one more pump of traditional syrup (or a packet of brown sugar)
Another option is ordering a basic brown sugar milk tea, which includes a Teavana tea of your choice, your choice of milk, and brown sugar.
Iced Teavana Tea
Another way for Starbucks customers to enjoy a boba tea-like experience is by ordering a simple Teavana tea.
Starbucks offers a wide variety of Teavana flavors on its menu, and they can also be purchased at local grocery stores for making your own boba tea.
If these alternatives are not quite the same as traditional boba tea, customers can also create their own tapioca milk tea by ordering an iced tea in any of the flavors offered and then adding tapioca pearls at home.
Tips
It may be best to place your order online to avoid any misunderstandings. If you decide to order in-store, make sure you are clear with your request, as this could be frustrating for your barista if it’s busy.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your order. You can swap out the toffee nut syrup for something else or opt for oat milk if you have lactose intolerance.
You can also jazz up your bubble tea by adding cold foam, like the salted caramel cream cold foam.
DIY Boba Tea Recipes
As you may not find a boba to drink at your nearby Starbucks store, it’s best to make one yourself when you’re craving it!
There are a couple of ways to do this, one being to purchase a boba tea starter kit. These kits typically include tapioca pearls, tea (either in powder or loose-leaf form), boba straws, and reusable cups.
These kits often come with a variety of boba tea flavors to choose from such as pearl milk tea, classic milk tea, raspberry milk tea, taro milk tea, or jasmine green tea.
Another way to make boba tea at home is by starting from scratch.
It may not be as difficult as it seems! The best thing is that you have complete control over the flavors and customization options.
With so many different types of boba tea available, such as green tea or black milk tea, making it yourself ensures that you get exactly the taste you prefer.
DIY Boba Tea Recipes
With so many different types of boba tea available, such as green tea or black milk tea, making it yourself ensures that you get exactly the taste you prefer.
2 bags black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons of loose-leaf tea)
2 cups water
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup tapioca pearls(boba)
as needed ice cubes
Start by brewing your tea. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small saucepan or kettle. Once the water is boiling, add your tea bags or loose-leaf tea and let it steep for 3-5 minutes. If you are using loose-leaf tea, make sure to strain the leaves before proceeding.
While the tea is brewing, let’s prepare the boba. Bring a separate pot of water to a boil and add 1/2 cup of tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally and let them cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and translucent.
Once the boba is cooked, drain it and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step will also help to prevent the boba from sticking together.
In a small saucepan, heat up 1 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir occasionally until the sugar is dissolved.
Now it’s time to assemble your boba tea! In a glass, add a few spoonsful of cooked boba, then add ice cubes. Pour in the chilled tea and then add the sweetened milk.
Stir everything together and enjoy!
Pro tip:You can play around with different types of tea and sweeteners and adjust the amount of milk and sugar to your liking. You can also try different boba tea toppings.
Some people like to add other ingredients like honey or vanilla syrup for added boba tea flavors. You can also adjust the number of ice cubes based on your preference.
And don’t forget to use a straw with a wider diameter to enjoy the tapioca pearls.
What Are the Other Famous Drinks from Starbucks?
Despite not offering boba tea, Starbucks has a variety of popular drinks on its menu, such as the vanilla latte, white chocolate mocha, Chai latte, Java Chip Frappuccino, and more.
A vanilla latte is a good option for those looking for a healthier drink, while the white chocolate mocha is currently considered one of the best-tasting cold beverages at Starbucks.
The Iced White Chocolate Mocha contains 49 grams of sugar per 16-ounce serving; it’s made with white chocolate mocha sauce and vanilla syrup as sweeteners. It’s one of the strongest coffees at Starbucks.
The Java Chip Frappuccino is a blend of coffee, ice, and milk, topped with whipped cream and mocha drizzle, providing a delicious caffeine boost. However, drinking too much coffee might lead to weight gain.
Boba Coffee Is Gaining Popularity!
It’s not surprising that Starbucks is considering adding boba, or bubble tea, with coffee to their menu as it’s a popular trend in the market.
There are already various boba drinks that include coffee such as boba latte, Vietnamese iced coffee with boba, and even Dalgona Coffee with boba.
However, these drinks do not currently use coffee-popping boba.
Starbucks appears to have identified a gap in the market and they may likely introduce different types of coffee-popping boba pearls with different types of coffee and roast levels in 2023 and going forward.
This could include options like Pike Roast popping coffee boba or a decaffeinated version of their boba pearls.
FAQs
Why doesn’t Starbucks introduce boba tea on its menu?
One of the main reasons why Starbucks has not added boba tea to its menu is because it would be costly for the company. Introducing boba tea would require significant financial investment (in form of equipment, machinery, and ingredient) as the process of making boba tea is more complex than making coffee. Additionally, smaller shops have the boba market down well and Starbucks may not be interested in entering that market.
How big is the bubble tea market?
How big is the bubble tea market? The global bubble tea market size was estimated to be USD 2.17 billion in 2021 according to Fortune Business Insights. Allied Market Research estimates it to be $4.3 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 7.80% from 2020 to 2027.
Does bubble tea have caffeine?
Yes, bubble tea typically contains caffeine, as it is often made with tea as the base ingredient. The amount of caffeine in bubble tea can vary depending on the type of tea used and the serving size. Some bubble tea shops also offer decaffeinated options for those who are sensitive to caffeine.
What can replace tapioca pearls in bubble tea?
Yes, bubble tea typically contains caffeine, as it is often made with tea as the base ingredient. The amount of caffeine in bubble tea can vary depending on the type of tea used and the serving size. Some bubble tea shops also offer decaffeinated options for those who are sensitive to caffeine.
Why doesn’t Starbucks introduce boba tea on its menu?
One of the main reasons why Starbucks has not added boba tea to its menu is because it would be costly for the company.
Introducing boba tea would require significant financial investment (in form of equipment, machinery, and ingredient) as the process of making boba tea is more complex than making coffee.
Additionally, smaller shops have the boba market down well and Starbucks may not be interested in entering that market.
Yes, bubble tea typically contains caffeine, as it is often made with tea as the base ingredient.
The amount of caffeine in bubble tea can vary depending on the type of tea used and the serving size. Some bubble tea shops also offer decaffeinated options for those who are sensitive to caffeine.
What can replace tapioca pearls in bubble tea?
Alternatives to tapioca pearls in bubble tea include grass jelly, young coconut meat, blueberries, jelly strips, jelly boba, crystal boba or white agar pearls, arrowroot, potato starch, cornstarch, rice flour, cassava flour, all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour and gluten-free flours such as almond flour, coconut flour, and chickpea flour.
Imagine you are scanning through the menu of a café. Options available are:
Cappuccino
Espresso
Piccolo latte
Latte
Cold brew
Chances are, you ignored Piccolo latte among these. You aren’t alone! While the Piccolo latte might be less popular, it is a unique coffee type. Read on to find out why!
What is Piccolo coffee, and why is it special?
Piccolo coffee is made special by the ristretto shot mixed with milk. The shot measures 15 to 20 ml (0.5 fl oz. to 0.7 fl oz.).
A small quantity doesn’t necessarily mean mild taste as it is concentrated. Concentration is retained due to finely ground coffee beans. The shot results in less retention of water. Piccolo latte also has numerous other traits covered below.
1. Strong flavor
A concentrated shot means a strong flavor. Besides the shot, the milk content is limited, which doesn’t dilute the taste as much as a regular latte, resulting in a strong flavor.
2. Less fulfilling
Two ounces of non-fat milk results in 22 calories. A similar quantity of 2% milk results in 30 calories. That is precisely what the piccolo latte offers – a strong taste with fewer calories.
3. Eliminates acidity
Bigger coffee shots offer better taste retention with the risk of higher acidity. According to a study by Rao and Fuller, the pH level of a typical cup of hot brew coffee is between 4.85 to 5.13, which is considered acidic.
While the Ristretto shot has a similar pH level, two factors work in its favor:
A limited quantity of shots in a piccolo latte limits the acidity by volume.
It’s usually mixed with milk (pH level: 6.5 to 6.7) which reduces overall acidity.
[su_note note_color=”#8ff2ff” text_color=”#000000″]👀 Fun fact: Piccolo means “small” in Italian, embodied by the limited ristretto shot and milk.[/su_note]
Anyone experiencing the urge to drink a piccolo latte by now can follow the recipe below.
How to make Piccolo coffee?
Heading to local coffee shops that offer a piccolo latte isn’t always viable. Better to make it at home with the equipment below:
How to make Piccolo coffee?
Heading to local coffee shops that offer a piccolo latte isn’t always viable. Better to make it at home with the equipment below:
coffee maker
Demitasse glass
20 grams dark roast coffee beans (same amount as a normal espresso shot)
1 oz. filtered water
2 oz. milk (or non-dairy alternative)
Add the ground coffee to the machine.
Tamp it as you would with an espresso shot
Pull the shot for only 20 seconds and pour it into a cup
Froth your chosen milk for 30-60 seconds and pour over the Ristretto shot
Piccolo latte consists of a single ristretto shot (one part) and two parts of frothed milk.
That’s it!
Piccolo latte consists of a single ristretto shot (one part) and two parts of frothed milk.
If you’re having trouble with milk consistency, try any of the techniques below.
Tips for frothing milk to the right consistency
Technique 1: Use a milk frother
An automatic milk frother makes foamed milk and heats it to the right temperature. My recommendation is Paris Rhone Milk Frother to create froth using the procedure below:
Step 1: Pour in the milk and select the foam mode (Dense foam, Fluffy Foam) as per preference.
Step 2: Pour foamed milk into your cup by keeping the jug and glass straight. Ensure a gap of 5cm (2 inches) between the jug and the cup.
Technique 2: Use a whisk
Do not want to buy an appliance to make milk foam? If so, use a whisk instead. I strongly recommend an electric whisk like this one, it would save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
Step 1: Heat milk up to 60°C (140°F) (check with a food thermometer).
Step 2: Whisk the milk for 30 seconds and pour it into your cup.
Truth be told, whisk generates less foam as compared to the other two methods. However, if you do not have any of the above two appliances, it will still help you make decent coffee.
Technique 3: Use a French press
The French press is usually used for brewing coffee, but it does work as a milk frother if you’re in a pinch! The difficulty here is heating the milk.
Step 1: Heat the milk, if you have a food thermometer, look out for 60°C (140°F).
Step 2: Pour it into a French press and generate foam bubbles using short plunges for about 30 seconds. After that, shift it to the pitcher.
Step 3: Pour the milk into the Demitasse glass, which contains the ristretto shot.
When plunging, try to control how high you pull the plunger. Aim for the milk surface. If you pull too high, it would create large bubbles which reduce the creamy texture.
Tips for making the perfect cup of Piccolo coffee
1. Keep quantity between 20-30 ml (0.7 fl oz to 1 fl oz).
2. Allow enough air to create micro-foam.
3. Pour from 5cm (2 inches) to mix milk nicely with the ristretto.
4. Choose either hazelnut/caramel/chocolate coffee for proper flavors. Avoid fruity coffee flavors
5. Stick to full cream milk (milk alternatives: oat milk, almond milk).
6. Ensure the steaming temperature of 60°C (140°F).
Conclusion
Next time you want to surprise your palette of coffee, go for a piccolo latte. It is not difficult to make and it certainly is different than ordinary cappuccino or lattes served by most coffee shops.
FAQs
Is piccolo coffee stronger than a latte?
A piccolo latte is stronger than a latte because of less water in the ristretto shot. The small piccolo latte size makes it concentrated and stronger than a regular latte.
How many shots are in a Piccolo?
Piccolo latte consists of a single shot of ristretto, approximately 20 ml (0.7fl oz). It is similar to a typical espresso shot.
What is the difference between a piccolo and a macchiato?
Piccolo latte consists of more milk than macchiato. The ratio of ristretto shot to steamed milk is 1:2, whereas macchiato consists of only espresso and milk foam topping. A macchiato is the best bet if you want an undiluted flavor of an espresso shot with something to break the taste monotony.
What is the difference between a piccolo and an espresso?
Piccolo latte consists of a ristretto shot and not espresso. Ristretto uses less water and is also smaller than espresso. However, the bitter taste is more pronounced in espresso. On the flip side, ristretto has less caffeine content. The differences might be subtle, but the taste difference is drastic.
What kind of coffee is piccolo?
Piccolo coffee is a latte made from a ristretto shot derived from roasted coffee beans that are finely ground. The latte is typically served in a demitasse glass with steamed milk up to the top. The shot size is limited to 20 ml.
Confused about Ristretto and Long Shot? Learn the differences in brewing techniques, flavor profiles, and the history behind these two popular espresso drinks.
[su_box title=”Summary of Key Points” style=”default” box_color=”#1383C8″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”3″]
☕️ Ristretto and long shot are different types of espresso drinks
☕️ Ristretto is smaller, more concentrated and made with half the amount of water and a finer grind
☕️ Long shot, also known as lungo, is a larger, weaker version of espresso made with double the amount of water and longer extraction time
☕️ Ristretto has a sweeter taste due to less extraction of bitter compounds, while a long shot has a more dilute and less intense flavor
[/su_box]
Although Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, the award for inventing the espresso goes to Italy. In the early 20th century, businessman Luigi Bezzera invented the espresso machine in a bid to speed up the brewing process. As “espresso” means fast in Italian, the name stuck to the brew and the machine.
What Is A Ristretto Shot?
A ristretto shot is an espresso drink that is smaller in size. “Ristretto” in Italian means “restricted” or “shortened”. The name is such because the amount of water used to brew a ristretto shot is less than the amount of water used to brew an espresso. Plus, the ristretto coffee is brewed in a shorter time (15 to 20 seconds) using a finer grind for slow extraction, making the ristretto a more concentrated and sweet coffee drink, and smaller in size at 15 to 20 milliliters.
The Origins Of The Ristretto Shot
Ristretto owes its origins to Italy but it became popular in the United States during the early 1980s. North Americans can thank David Schomer, proprietor of Seattle’s renowned Espresso Vivace Café, for introducing the ristretto shot in these parts. For those who don’t like the bitterness associated with espresso, a ristretto espresso shot is the perfect answer.
Ristretto Vs Espresso Shot: Key Differences
Feature
Ristretto
Espresso
Size
15-20ml
25-35ml
Grind
Fine
Fine
Water used
15ml
30ml
Concentration
More concentrated and thicker
Less concentrated and thinner
Taste
Richer and sweeter
Bitter
Shot time
15-20 seconds
20-30 seconds
Coffee to water ratio
1:1 or 1:1.5
1:1.5 or 1:2.5
What is the difference between ristretto and espresso is a question that may arise in the minds of those who have just delved into the world of coffee.
Espresso
Espresso is a more familiar term and hence most coffee drinkers are used to it. It is the base for all coffee beverages and can also be taken on its own. An espresso shot is bold, bitter, and intense with deep notes of caramel and chocolate. It is made by passing 30 milliliters of hot water through 7 to 10 grams of finely ground coffee and applying a 9-bar pressure for 25 to 30 seconds. The result is a strong cup of 25 to 30 milliliters of coffee.
The body of the espresso is thinner as it is a less concentrated shot than a ristretto shot. The coffee-to-water ratio in an espresso shot is 1:1.5 or 1:2.5. However, if you’re home and are using a French press, you should know the right coffee to water ratio for a regular, weak, or strong cup.
Ristretto
In contrast, a ristretto coffee is a smaller version of espresso made with half the amount of water – 15 milliliters – and yielding a cup that is between 15 and 20 milliliters. You need a finer grind to make a shot of ristretto so that the hot water flow through the coffee grounds is slower, leading to less extraction of the bitter compounds. Owing to the less amount of water, the ristretto is more concentrated with a thicker and fuller body.
The taste is sweeter in a ristretto coffee shot because it wasn’t brewed long enough to release the bitter notes from the ground coffee. Another important difference is the brewing time. A ristretto is typically brewed for half the time as an espresso – 15 to 20 seconds. The shorter brewing time causes the difference in the taste and flavor of the ristretto. Finally, the coffee-to-water ratio in ristretto shots is 1:1 or 1:1.5, leading to a cup that is stronger than an espresso.
Ristretto Vs Long Shot
Feature
Ristretto
Long Shot
Strength
Stronger
Weaker
Size
Smaller
Larger
Water used
Less
More
Coffee-to-water ratio
1:1.5 or 1:2.5
1:2.5 or 1:4+
Extraction time
Short
Long
Volume
15-20ml
45-60ml
Brewing time
15-20 seconds
30-45 seconds
Taste
Less bitter
More bitter
Notes
Floral notes
Caramel, nuts, chocolate
Color
Darker
Lighter
Body
Full-bodied
Thin
Acidity
Less acidic
More acidic
An espresso or normale is what you have in the middle of the coffee strength spectrum. On one end there is the stronger and smaller ristretto and on the other end, there is the weaker and larger lungo. Lungo means “long” in Italian, hence the long shot.
The long shot is made using the same amount of ground coffee as the espresso, but with a longer extraction time and double the amount of water. Therefore, the coffee-to-water ratio in a long shot is 1:2.5 or even 1:4+. If you order a lungo, you will get a larger version of espresso that’s 45-60 milliliters in volume. The brewing time is also longer than the ristretto or the espresso – 30-45 seconds.
Since you have 60 milliliters of water going through the same portion of coffee, it will be weaker than ristretto or espresso. Due to the longer extraction time, the bitter compounds from the ground coffee will be more present in the long shot. The resultant coffee is weak but bitter.
As for the notes, they are the deepest in the long shot and you will get distinct notes of caramel, nuts, and chocolate. However, the color will be lighter and the body will be much thinner in this espresso drink. You will also find the long shot more acidic in nature due to the long extraction time.
Ristretto Vs Long Shot Taste
Feature
Ristretto
Long Shot
Taste
Sweet with floral notes
Bitter and acidic
Mouthfeel
Full-bodied
Thin-bodied
Prominent notes
Floral
Caramel, chocolate, nutty
To recap, ristretto is made with a shorter extraction time and therefore, tastes sweet with floral notes and a full-bodied mouthfeel. The short brewing time of only 15 to 20 seconds doesn’t allow the bitter compounds in the coffee grounds to dissolve fully and make the ristretto bitter.
On the other hand, the long shot is a coffee drink that is made with more water so it’s less concentrated with a thin body. The longer extraction time allows all the compounds to dissolve fully so that you will get a more bitter and more acidic taste in the long shot. The caramel, chocolate, and nutty notes are much more prominent here.
Ristretto Vs Long Shot Caffeine
Feature
Ristretto
Long Shot
Extraction time
Shortest
Longest
Caffeine content
Least
Most
Note
Caffeine content also depends on type of beans, roast, brewing method, and extraction time
Fun Fact: The longer coffee beans and grounds are allowed to be in contact with water, the more flavors and compounds are extracted.
Coffee flavors are released in three phases – sweet, sour, and bitter – as per the brewing time. When you brew coffee for a longer time, all the compounds and caffeine are released into the brew. That’s why, the ristretto has the least amount of caffeine, thanks to the shortest extraction time. Following the same logic, the normale or espresso has a higher caffeine content than the ristretto but lower than a long shot. The highest caffeine amount is in the lungo or long shot as it is brewed for more than 30 seconds.
I am referring to only the relative caffeine amount in these espresso shots because caffeine content depends on the type of beans, the roast, the brewing method, and the extraction time. If you’re conscious about caffeine intake, you can order any of the Starbucks low-caffeine drinks or caffeine-free drinks there.
What Is Ristretto Or Long Shot Starbucks?
Ristretto or long shot in Starbucks uses the Starbucks Espresso Roast that’s also used to brew an espresso shot. The Flat White and Holiday Spice Flat White are made with ristretto shots, but you can ask for ristretto in any espresso-based beverage at Starbucks. The ristretto shots Starbucks contains 130 milligrams of caffeine in a standard serving while the long shot at Starbucks contains 225 milligrams of caffeine per serving, as per this source.
A blonde ristretto at Starbucks uses Starbucks Blonde Espresso to pull a ristretto shot as the base in a blonde flat white beverage.
How To Make Ristretto
You can make ristretto shots in 3 ways – using a manual or semi-automatic coffee machine or a fully automatic ristretto machine.
Automatic Ristretto Machine
If you have a fully automatic coffee machine like this, chances are there is a programmable setting for making ristretto shots. Simply press and pour!
Semi-Automatic Coffee Machine
In a semi-automatic coffee machine, you will definitely have a setting to make espresso. Begin with the espresso program and tweak the settings so that you get a 15-milliliter cup in 15 seconds.
Manual Espresso Machine
How To Make Ristretto
You can make ristretto shots in 3 ways – using a manual or semi-automatic coffee machine or a fully automatic ristretto machine.
Espresso machine
Burr Grinder
Coffee scale
Water
7-10 grams Ground coffee beans
Fill the reservoir with cold, filtered water.
Turn on the espresso machine and wait for it to warm up.
Preheat your demitasse or espresso cup with a hot water rinse.
Put 10 or 20 grams of finely ground coffee into the portafilter.
Tamp the coffee grounds as you usually would.
Attach the portafilter to the coffee machine.
Pull the shot. Weigh the amount of coffee extracted using the scale. Aim to get 15 to 20 grams.
💡Pro Tip: Instead of using a scale, you can stop pulling the shot at 15 seconds to get ristretto shots.
FAQs
What Is A Ristretto Shot Of Espresso?
A ristretto shot of espresso is a short shot of espresso brewed at a shorter time for slower and less extraction of the full flavors of the coffee. The size of the ristretto is smaller; 15 – 20 milliliters. With the smaller amount of liquid extracted, the ristretto shot is usually sweeter, full-bodied, more concentrated, and stronger than the espresso and without bitterness.
When it comes to coffee, there are many options to choose from. From a simple black coffee to a fancy latte, the world of coffee is vast and diverse.
And speaking of lattes, have you ever found yourself in a coffee shop and wondering what the difference is between a latte and a cappuccino?
Or maybe you’ve heard of this thing called a “flat white” and you’re wondering how it’s different from a latte. Well, you’re not alone.
In this beginner’s guide to lattes, we’ll be covering everything from the basic ingredients to the history and even how to make one at home. So, sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive in.
What is a Latte?
First things first, let’s define what a latte is.
A latte is a type of coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk, typically topped with a small amount of foam.
The word “latte” is short for “caffe latte” which means “coffee and milk” in Italian. So, if you’re ever in Italy and you order a latte, you’ll be getting a cup of coffee with some milk.
But here in the United States, when we say latte, we’re usually referring to a drink that is made up of espresso and steamed milk.
What Is a Latte Made of?
It’s a delicious combination of two key ingredients: espresso and steamed milk.
Let’s start with the espresso, the heart, and soul of any latte. It’s a type of coffee that is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans under high pressure.
This process creates a strong, concentrated coffee that packs a punch and will wake you up faster than a drill sergeant!
But here’s the thing, espresso on its own is like a rock concert without a drummer, it’s just not complete. That’s where the steamed milk comes in.
To make a latte, baristas steam milk to create a creamy, velvety texture that complements the strong coffee flavor of the espresso. It’s like adding a symphony to a rock concert, it just makes everything better.
The steamed milk is then poured over the espresso, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Now, some people like their lattes strong and bold, while others prefer a more subtle flavor.
The ratio of espresso to steamed milk can vary depending on personal preference, but a traditional latte is made with about 1 part espresso and 2 parts steamed milk.
This ratio creates a smooth, rich flavor that is perfect for sipping on a chilly morning!
Why Coffee and Milk?
In simple terms, adding milk to coffee helps to balance out the bitter taste that comes from the acidity in coffee.
Additionally, drinking coffee with milk is beneficial for your health as it provides additional vitamins and nutrients, as well as protects against throat burns (which may cause cancer) when consumed at high temperatures.
Espresso Drinks Similar to Latte
When answering the question of “what is a latte,” it is important to distinguish it from other coffee drinks like macchiatos and cappuccinos.
Lattes are often mistaken for cappuccinos, which are similar but distinct coffee drinks. The main differences between the two are the way they are made, and the amount of milk used.
The layering of ingredients is the main distinguishing factor.
Latte vs Cappuccinos vs Macchiatos
Macchiatos are made by pouring 1-2 teaspoons of steamed milk into 1 ounce of espresso.
Cappuccinos consist of 1 shot of espresso, equal parts of steamed milk, and milk foam (usually in a 1:1 ratio of milk to foam), and are topped with cocoa powder.
Caffe Lattes have 1 part espresso and 2 parts steamed milk.
Essentially, lattes have more steamed milk and less foam than macchiatos and cappuccinos, the ingredients in a latte are mixed, but layered in a cappuccino.
A cappuccino typically has at least 1cm of microfoam, while a latte has around 0.5cm, which affects the texture of the beverage.
According to Tim Sturk, a coffee consultant for Booker Group, a latte is defined as a cappuccino with more milk.
Cappuccinos have a stronger coffee flavor than lattes due to the higher proportion of foam and less milk. They also tend to be thicker and creamier as a result.
Since lattes have more liquid, it is easier to add flavorings and additives to them than in cappuccinos.
Latte vs Flat White
A flat white is made up of espresso and steamed milk, just like a latte, but it has less foam and is usually served in a smaller cup.
So, if you’re looking for a stronger coffee taste with less foam, flat whites might be the way to go.
History of Caffe Latte
Now that we know what a latte is, let’s talk about its history.
The tradition of combining coffee and milk dates back to the 1600s in European coffee houses and has been a popular choice for many coffee drinkers at home.
The first recorded instance of someone adding milk to coffee was in 1660 when a Dutch ambassador in China adopted the local tradition of adding milk to tea.
The practice later spread to Austria in 1684, where a coffee shop owner began serving coffee with milk to cater to customers who didn’t like the bitter taste of the strong Turkish brew.
This led to the creation of various milk-based coffee beverages, such as caffè latte in Italy, Milchkaffee in Germany, café con Leche in Spain, and café au lait in France.
The term “latte” to describe a milk-based coffee beverage wasn’t established until the late 1860s.
The Latte Today
The US played a significant role in developing the latte as we know it today, with Americans adding milk to make coffee taste milder after importing espresso machines from Italy post-World War II.
The latte rose to popularity in Seattle in the late 1980s by Howard Schultz, the CEO of Starbucks. It quickly spread to coffee shops across the United States throughout the 1990s.
With the rise of Starbucks and other coffee shops, the latte became a staple in American culture.
There are even two specific days set aside to celebrate lattes:
October 7th is National Latte Day
December 3rd is National Peppermint Latte Day
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Latte at Home
The history of the latte isn’t just about the rise of coffee shops, it’s also about the art and science of making a good latte.
Baristas have been honing their skills for years to create the perfect latte, from the right amount of foam to the perfect latte art.
And let’s not forget about the science of it all. The temperature of the milk, the pressure of the espresso, and the ratio of milk to foam all play crucial roles in making a delicious latte.
Well, the good news is that it’s not as hard as you might think. You don’t need a fancy espresso machine (although it would be great to have one under $200) or a barista’s degree to make a latte at home. All you need is a few basic tools and ingredients.
1 cup of whole milk (Whole milk works best for lattes because it creates a rich, creamy foam).
Sweetener (optional)
Make The Latte – Instructions
Here’s a basic recipe for making a latte at home:
Step 1: Making Your Espresso
Use an espresso machine or manual espresso maker to create two shots of espresso coffee and pour it into a mug (preferably one of these espresso cups!).
Step 2: Steaming or Frothing Your Milk (Using Espresso Machine)
If you’re using a dual boiler machine, like the De’Longhi EC 155, you can brew your espresso and steam your milk simultaneously. Aim for them to finish at the same time.
Use the wand of an espresso machine that makes steam and hold it just below the surface of the milk until it doubles in size, creating the frothy foam on top.
Move the wand lower and near the side of the pitcher and make a swirling motion, this creates small, smooth bubbles (milk foam) and gives the latte a wet paint-like texture.
Steam until the milk gets hot (around 150 degrees Fahrenheit), you can use a thermometer or judge by when the pitcher becomes too hot to hold for more than a few seconds.
[Note – Skip Step 3 if you have an automated machine!]
Step 3: Heat the Milk to Scalding Temperature and Foam (Without Espresso Machine)
To make latte milk, you need to heat it to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (it should feel hot, but not too hot). You can measure the temperature with a thermometer or test it with your finger.
To make the milk frothy, you can use a milk frother, a French press, or a whisk. You don’t need too much froth, just enough so the milk mixes in with the coffee nicely.
If you’re using a French press, it’s helpful to have at least 1 cup of milk so you have enough for two drinks
After you froth, the milk, wait for 30 seconds to 1 minute for the foamed milk to mix in and separate a bit.
Step 4: Add Steamed Milk to the Espresso, Put Everything Together, and Serve
To make sure the milk is smooth, tap the container on the counter and swirl it to break up any big bubbles.
Carefully pour the steamed or frothed milk on top into the center of the espresso base, making sure to leave some light foam on top.
If you want to get fancy, try doing latte art by creating designs with milk. Just remember, latte art takes practice, so don’t get discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t look like a work of art.
If desired, add sweetener to taste. And you’re good to go with a delicious cup of homemade caffe latte!
Latte art is also an essential aspect of the modern latte, with it being rare to not find it in most coffee shops today. It was popularized in the 1980s by David Schomer, the owner of Espresso Vivace.
To make latte art at home without a machine, you will need to practice pouring the steamed milk into your coffee in a way that creates a design. Here are a few tips:
Start by pouring the steamed milk into the center of the coffee, and then slowly move the pour in a circular motion to create a spiral pattern.
Use the tip of the pour spout to create lines and shapes in the foam.
Experiment with different pouring speeds and angles to achieve different effects.
Practice makes perfect! The more you pour, the better you will become at creating latte art designs.
You can also try using tools like a toothpick or a skewer to create designs on the surface of the latte.
You can also use food coloring to make your latte more colorful and fun.
Exploring Variations of the Standard Latte
Here’s the thing, lattes aren’t just for the traditionalists. Many variations of lattes include different flavors and ingredients.
Some popular variations include vanilla lattes, caramel lattes, and pumpkin spice lattes. These variations are made by adding flavored syrups or spices to the basic latte recipe.
It’s like giving your latte a makeover, and who doesn’t love a good makeover?
In addition, you can also make a latte with non-dairy milk like soy milk or almond milk.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try an iced latte. It’s a latte served over ice, perfect for those hot summer days.
Tea Lattes
Tea lattes are a variation of traditional coffee lattes that are made with tea instead of coffee.
Some examples of tea lattes include –
Chai Latte
London Fog Latte
Golden Latte
Matcha Latte
These lattes are typically made without espresso, but many baristas may add an espresso shot to them.
When an espresso shot is added to a tea latte, it is referred to as a “dirty” version of that latte. For example, a “Dirty Chai Latte” would be a Chai Latte with an added shot of espresso.
FAQs
Can I make a latte with almond milk or soy milk?
Yes, you can make a latte with almond milk or soy milk. However, the foam may not be as thick as it would be with cow’s milk.
Is a latte healthier than a cappuccino?
It depends on how you make it. A latte made with skim or low-fat milk will have fewer calories and less fat than a latte made with whole milk. Similarly, a cappuccino made with skim or low-fat milk will also have fewer calories and less fat than one made with whole milk.
Is an iced latte just milk and coffee?
An iced latte typically consists of espresso, cold milk, and ice. Some variations may also include flavorings or syrups. So, it’s not just milk and coffee.
If you’re a regular at your local coffee spot, you’ve probably heard these two drinks tossed around more times than you can count.
But do you really know the difference between “latte vs mocha”? The answer is definitely “No” (otherwise, you wouldn’t land on this post!). Well, you’re not alone.
These two popular coffee drinks have a lot in common, but some key differences set them apart.
A latte is made with espresso, steamed milk, and a small amount of foam on top, while a mocha is made with espresso, steamed milk, chocolate syrup or powder, and whipped cream. The main difference is that a latte is primarily a coffee-based drink, while a mocha has a stronger chocolate flavor.
However, that’s not all! There are other differences regarding their origins, taste, caffeine content, how they’re made, and how they’re served in different coffee shops.
Well, grab a cup of Joe and get ready to take notes because we’re about to break it down for you in the most entertaining way possible.
What Goes into Caffè Latte?
First, let’s just state the obvious – Lattes are everywhere. They’re like the little black dress of the coffee world, always in style and always a crowd-pleaser.
And the best part? They’re relatively easy to make.
Some places will serve it in a tall glass, while others will serve it in a regular cup. But no matter how it’s served, a Latte is always a smooth and subtle sweet treat.
Now, the traditional recipe for a Latte is simple, it’s just a shot of espresso, steamed milk, and 2-3 cm of foamed milk. But let’s not forget, some baristas out there are real artists, and they’ll create some latte art that will blow your mind.
But here’s the thing, Lattes have evolved, and now you have all sorts of variations like Matcha Lattes, Chai Latte, and even a Chocolate Latte (which is like a Mocha’s cousin).
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even order a whipped coffee cocktail called a Dalgona Latte.
Now, the word Latte itself comes from the Italian word “caffe latte” which means coffee and milk. But nowadays you can order a Latte with all sorts of ingredients.
You can even find Turmeric Lattes and Sweet Potato Lattes in some Asian places.
And here’s the best part, you can even make it a little healthier by ordering it with plant-based milk like almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
Because let’s face it, a lot of us are lactose intolerant and it’s not fun to have a stomachache after a delicious Latte.
When Is the Best Time to Order a Latte?
Any time of the day! But, just a heads up, in Italy, Lattes are typically ordered as a breakfast coffee.
So, if you’re in Italy, and you want to order a Latte for lunch or dinner, be prepared to get some weird looks. But hey, who cares about traditional rules when it comes to coffee, right?
Another thing to remember when you’re in Italy: say “caffe latte” instead of “latte”. Otherwise, you may be served just milk which is the meaning of “latte” in Italian!
So, What Is the Caffè Mocha?
Let’s talk about the Mocha – the drink that’s like the Latte’s wild and adventurous cousin.
Now, you might be thinking, “Hey, wait a minute, isn’t Mocha just a caffeine-free drink?” Well, that’s a myth! The traditional Mocha is made with a shot of espresso, milk, and a little bit of hot chocolate magic.
But let’s be real here, all that chocolate also means more sugar. So, if you’re thinking about making Mocha your daily go-to drink, think again.
Mocha is best enjoyed as an occasional treat. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can even make it with hot white chocolate, making it even more irresistible.
During the winter holidays, coffee shops start to sell all sorts of Mocha drinks, like hot chocolate and mint, chocolate hazelnut, salted caramel, and even chocolate and black forest gateaux syrup.
And let’s not forget, mainstream coffee shops will also add cream to Mocha, making it even more delicious and indulgent.
When Do People Drink Mocha?
Mocha is another type of coffee drink that is often considered a morning drink because of its satisfying quality. It may be a good option as a mid-morning beverage paired with a light snack.
If you’re looking for a seasonal variation, just wait for the holiday season, it’s the best time to try different Mocha variations.
History and Origin
Origin of the Caffè Latte
The term “caffé latte” is Italian for “milk coffee” and it’s interesting to note that in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, the term “café au lait” is used to refer to a combination of milk and espresso – a latte.
However, historians and the Oxford English Dictionary credit the first use of the term “caffé lato” or “caffé latte” to William Dean Howells’ essay “Italian Journeys”.
Despite this historical background, the modern commercial latte is often considered an American invention.
Some believe that the latte was created to cater to American tourists who wanted a more palatable option compared to the stronger taste of Italian espresso.
The American version is thought to have originated in California and gained popularity in Seattle – the American capital of coffee – in the 1980s.
Origins of the Mocha
The city of Mocha, also known as Al-Mokha, in Yemen is the origin of the term “mocha coffee.”
Historically, Yemen was a major supplier of coffee to Europe, with beans transported by sea through the port of Al-Mokha before reaching the European markets.
The Dutch East India Company was one of the merchants that imported the coffee and marketed it as “mocha” coffee, referencing the city of origin. Eventually, the term “mocha” became synonymous with coffee.
But why does mocha today often refer to a chocolate coffee blend?
While mocha beans were said to have a natural chocolate flavor, today’s mocha is a combination of coffee, milk, and chocolate.
Some sources suggest that the modern American version of the mocha, which includes milk and chocolate, can be traced back to an Italian drink called bicerin, which was traditionally served in a clear glass with visible layers of espresso, chocolate, and milk.
Americans adopted this drink and eliminated the layered presentation resulting in the popular café mocha we know today.
Latte vs Mocha – What’s the Difference?
Understanding the characteristics of each drink will help you in determining which drink aligns better with the taste you’re looking for.
Latte
Mocha
Brewing Method
Espresso machine to brew the espresso shots
Espresso machine to brew the espresso shots
Taste and Flavors
A latte coffee usually has a sweet, creamy taste with notes of vanilla and caramel.
A mocha has a stronger chocolate flavor
The Look
A latte has a higher milk-to-espresso ratio and is often served in a clear glass cup
A mocha is typically served with whipped cream or chocolate shavings
Caffeine Content
One shot contains 68mg of caffeine
Mocha has higher caffeine content because of the added dark chocolate
1. Brewing Method
Both lattes and mochas require an espresso machine to brew the espresso shots.
To make a mocha, the espresso shots are pulled, and an equal amount of chocolate is mixed into the espresso while the milk steams. Once the milk is steamed, it is poured over the top and whipped cream can be added as desired.
To prepare a latte, shots are brewed, and steamed milk is poured over the top. The latte is often finished with a layer of milk foam or art. If you want to add flavor, it is typically added after the espresso and before the milk foam.
Many modern espresso machines come with pre-programmed recipes, making it easy to make a latte with just one touch.
2. Taste and Flavors
A mocha has a stronger chocolate flavor than a latte due to the addition of chocolate sauce. It may also have undertones of caramel or vanilla. The texture is usually rich, and the aftertaste tends to be bittersweet.
A latte coffee usually has a sweet, creamy taste with notes of vanilla and caramel. The espresso flavor is also usually present, giving a slightly bitter and roasted taste to the drink.
For the best flavor profile, use beans that have been roasted to a medium-dark brown color. This will provide a robust taste without being too overpowering.
I recommend checking out my suggestions for the best coffee beans for your latte. These beans can also be used to make mocha at home.
3. The Look
The contrast between a mocha and a latte is quite distinct, especially when prepared by a professional barista in a coffee shop setting.
A mocha is typically served with whipped cream or chocolate shavings, and even without these toppings, it is generally darker in color compared to a latte.
In contrast, a latte has a higher milk-to-espresso ratio and is often served in a clear glass cup, making its lighter color more obvious. Additionally, art on top of a latte is a common feature.
4. Caffeine Content
Both lattes and mochas are espresso-based coffee drinks, which have a higher caffeine content than regular coffee beans.
For a sweet, smooth flavor, the best latte is made with one espresso shot. For a mocha, you can choose one or two espresso shots. One shot contains 68mg of caffeine.
Generally, mocha has higher caffeine content because of the added dark chocolate, which also contains caffeine.
Is Latte Healthier Than Mocha? (Which Has More Calories?)
The Mocha is a little bit of a calorie bomb. It’s like the “I-ate-the-whole-pint-of-ice-cream” of the coffee world. But don’t worry, if you’re watching your waistline, the skinny latte is here to save the day. It’s like the “I-only-had-a-scoop” of the coffee world.
Now, when it comes to calorie count, the Mocha has more calories because it has chocolate added to it. A skinny latte has fewer calories because it only has espresso and low-fat milk.
A typical latte has 43 calories per 100g, and a Mocha has 64 calories per 100g. But here’s a fun fact – the Latte has more fat in it because it has more milk.
If you are following a low-carb diet like keto, it’s best to avoid Mocha as it has more cars than a Latte.
In terms of health benefits, a Latte is good for people who want more calcium and protein in their diet because it has more milk.
If you’re counting your calories, stick to an Americano, it’s like the “I-had-a-glass-of-water” with just one lonely little calorie per 100g.
But, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to indulge, go for a Frappuccino; it has 67 calories per 100g.
How to Make a Mocha at Home?
Making a Mocha at home is simple, you just need some basic ingredients, such as espresso, any syrup or flavor of your choice, and milk (in ⅖:⅖:⅕ ratio).
To start, take a cup and add chocolate, syrup, or a flavor of your choice to fill about a quarter of the cup.
Then add espresso to the cup, mixing it in.
Next, fill the rest of the cup with equal parts steamed milk and frothed milk.
Give it a gentle mix and your homemade Mocha is ready!
You can adjust the sweetness or flavor to your liking. This is an easy and perfect way to make Mocha at home.
How to Make Latte at Home?
Making a Latte at home is just as easy as making a Mocha, as long as you know the proper technique. The ingredients you need are espresso and milk.
While the ideal ratio is 1:2, Lattes are typically made with more milk than espresso.
To make a perfect Latte, start by adding an espresso shot (or double shot if you prefer it stronger) into a large ceramic cup or latte cup.
Next, prepare steamed milk by heating it on a burner on medium flame and pour it into the cup until it’s nearly full (keep space for the foamed milk).
Then, add a layer of milk foam on top of the steamed milk.
Gently tilt the cup to mix the milk with the espresso. For a final touch, you can sprinkle cocoa powder on top.
Sometimes you go to a coffee shop, and you see those fancy designs on top of your latte; that’s called latte art.
And let me tell you, it’s not as easy as it looks. But if you’re feeling creative and have an eye for art, give it a try!
But if you’re not feeling like a Picasso with your latte, don’t worry, a simple cocoa powder garnish on top works just as well.
Milk for Latte and Mocha Coffees
As you’ve noticed from the recipes, both Latte and Mocha coffee drinks use steamed and/or frothed milk.
While making the espresso shots is a breeze with a good espresso machine, preparing the perfect milk is whole work of art!
To make this milk, you can use the steam wand on an espresso machine or a milk frothing device.
The main difference between frothed milk and steamed milk is the number of air bubbles they have. Frothed milk has double the volume of air bubbles than steamed milk.
Steamed Milk
To make steamed milk, you place the steam wand about an inch into cold milk and create a whirlpool effect.
Keep steaming until the milk reaches between 145°F and 155°F (check with a thermometer). You may read this guide on the science of steamed milk to understand why!
Frothed Milk
To make frothed milk, you place the milk frother into the milk to mix air into the milk to produce an airy layer of froth.
As the milk starts to foam on the surface, you move the wand down through the milk until it reaches the bottom of the cup.
The froth forms as the milk volume expand and you need to move the wand further down. Do a little bit of practice, and you’ll get used to using it.
Iced Mocha vs Latte
Both hot and iced versions of lattes and mochas are popular throughout the year, but iced lattes and iced mochas are particularly in demand during warmer months.
It’s important to note that adding hot espresso directly to ice is not recommended as it can cause the espresso to become bitter and melt the ice too quickly. To make iced espresso-based drinks, the espresso shots should be mixed with milk and/or chocolate before adding ice.
The steps to make an iced latte are:
Begin by adding cold milk to a glass or to-go cup
Next, pour the desired amount of espresso shots into the milk and mix well.
Lastly, top off the drink with ice.
To make an iced mocha, the steps are:
Start by placing cold milk in a glass or to-go cup
Mix the espresso shots with an equal amount of chocolate syrup
Pour the mixture of espresso and chocolate into the milk and stir to combine.
Finally, add ice to the cup, and your iced mocha coffee drinks are ready to enjoy.
Mocha vs Latte: What Are Your Favorite Coffee Drinks?
So, what’s it gonna be? A rich, chocolatey Mocha or a smooth and creamy Latte?
Both espresso-based drinks are delicious in their own way, like choosing between a candy bar or a bowl of ice cream.
If you’re a chocolate lover, a Mocha is a no-brainer, it’s like a cup full of happiness with a shot of caffeine. But, if you’re more of a traditionalist, a Latte is the way to go. It’s like a warm hug in a cup, with a hint of milk to make it extra cozy.
And don’t forget, lattes offer a little more flexibility with syrups and flavors to play with, you can make it as sweet as you want it, without having to worry about the chocolate in a Mocha.
Latte vs Mocha – Summary
A latte typically has a higher proportion of milk compared to espresso, with the ratio usually being 2 parts milk to 1 part coffee.
Lattes have a light and mild coffee flavor, with the creamy taste of milk being more prominent.
Most lattes have a thin layer of frothed milk at the top and are often adorned with latte art.
Mocha, on the other hand, usually has a higher proportion of espresso, and it comes with additional chocolate, with the ratio usually being ⅖ espresso, ⅖ chocolate, and ⅕ milk.
Mochas are known to have a sweet and bold flavor, thanks to the chocolate syrup added to the espresso and steamed milk.
FAQs
Is It Okay to Drink Mochas in Coffee Shops Every day?
Drinking a Mocha every day may not be a good idea. A large Mocha from Starbucks contains a significant amount of sugar, about 11 teaspoons, which is more than the recommended daily intake for women and men. The American Heart Association recommends a maximum of 6 teaspoons per day for women and 9 teaspoons per day for men. Drinking a Mocha every day would exceed these recommendations.
Is Mocha the Same as Chocolate Syrup?
No. A Mocha is a coffee beverage consisting of espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup. Chocolate syrup, on the other hand, is simply a sweet chocolate-flavored sauce that is used as a topping or ingredient in various desserts and drinks. While the chocolate syrup is an ingredient in mocha, it is not the same as a mocha drink.
How Many Lattes Is Too Much?
It is important to monitor the number of Lattes you consume as too much caffeine can have negative effects on your body. The FDA recommends a daily limit of 400 milligrams of caffeine, which is roughly equivalent to 3 double-shot lattes. Consuming more than this amount may cause symptoms such as jitteriness or headaches.
Are you following a gluten-free diet and wondering if it is safe to drink coffee? If so, you’re not alone.
Many people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity avoid gluten in their diet to manage their symptoms, but it can be difficult to know which foods and drinks are safe to consume.
In this article, we’ll explore the question: is coffee gluten-free? We’ll look at the ingredients in coffee, how it’s processed, and whether it can be contaminated with gluten.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of whether coffee is safe for a gluten-free diet.
Is Coffee Gluten Free? (The Short Answer)
Yes, coffee is generally considered to be gluten-free. Coffee beans, which are the primary ingredient in coffee, do not contain any gluten.
Coffee beans come from the fruit of the coffee plant, which belongs to the family of plants known as Rubiaceae.
Gluten is a type of protein found in grains, specifically wheat, barley, and rye, which belong to the grass family (Poaceae).
As beans do not come from grain and do not belong to the grass family, they do not contain gluten naturally.
There Could Be Gluten in Your Coffee!
However, it’s important to note that there is a potential for gluten contamination in coffee.
This can occur if the coffee beans are processed or stored in facilities that also handle gluten-containing grains, or if shared equipment is used to process both gluten-free and gluten-containing items.
In addition, cross-contamination can occur in coffee shops if gluten-containing ingredients, such as syrups or flavorings, are used in the same area as gluten-free coffee.
The abstract of the review stated that “coffee consumption was associated with cross-reactivity with gliadin antibodies in celiac patients,” which seemed to imply that drinking coffee could cause the same symptoms as consuming gluten in people who’re sensitive to gluten.
However, upon further examination, it was found that only one study had tested the cross-reactivity between coffee and gluten, and only two instant coffees were found to be cross-reactive.
This rumor serves as a reminder that it’s important to carefully review the evidence and not rely on health advice from the internet.
Do Coffee, Chocolate, and Cheese Slow Healing?
There is another rumor circulating on the internet that suggests that coffee, chocolate, and cheese can slow healing for those who are gluten sensitive.
This information comes from a study that looked at a list of more than 18 common foods that can potentially cross-react with gluten, including these three items.
However, the study actually advised that if a person following a gluten-free diet does not show improvement in their symptoms, they should consider eliminating other potential allergens such as yeast, oats, corn, rice, and millet.
If symptoms still persist after eliminating these potential allergens, further investigation into other food intolerances should be pursued.
It is important to note that this advice has been misconstrued and exaggerated by some health bloggers, and coffee, chocolate, and cheese are not necessarily harmful to those who are gluten sensitive.
These foods may only cause problems if a person has a negative reaction to them. It is also worth noting that chocolate often contains dairy, which some people may be sensitive to.
Why the Combination of Gluten and Coffee Is Bad for People with Sensitive Stomachs?
Some people with sensitive stomachs, such as those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten intolerance, may experience gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss, bloating, fatigue, and cramping when consuming both gluten and coffee.
This is because the caffeine in coffee can irritate the already sensitive digestive system, and even the acidity of coffee itself can cause issues.
If you are following a gluten-free diet but are still experiencing symptoms, there are a few ways to try to identify the cause of your symptoms.
One option is to get a Cyrex Array 4 test, which is a blood test that checks for reactions to certain proteins in your diet.
Dietitians Suggest Trying an Elimination Diet
If you are following a gluten-free diet but still experiencing symptoms and think coffee may be the issue, try eliminating it for a week and replacing it with black or green tea.
If you usually have coffee in the afternoon, you can try substituting hot tea in the morning and iced tea in the afternoon.
After a week without coffee, you can try having one cup of organic, whole-bean coffee in the morning and pay attention to any effects it may have on your digestive system.
In Case of Negative Result –
If the symptoms come back and you can’t give up coffee entirely, diluting it with lactose-free milk or almond milk in a one-to-one ratio may help alleviate symptoms.
In Case of Positive Result –
If your symptoms improved or disappeared entirely while you were not consuming coffee and you do not experience any symptoms after having one cup of whole-bean coffee, it is likely safe to return to your normal coffee intake.
However, it is recommended to avoid instant and ground coffee and opt for organic, whole-bean coffee instead. There are many healthy alternatives to gluten-containing foods and drinks, so you don’t have to give up your favorites.
Explanation of Gluten-Free Diets and Why People Follow Them
Gluten-free diets are becoming more popular as people search for healthier eating options. Gluten is a protein found in some grains. It’s often used to make bread, cereals, pasta, and other foods that taste good.
Some people are sensitive to these proteins and experience symptoms such as bloating, flatulence (gas), diarrhea, and vomiting after consuming such products.
Gluten can be found in many packaged foods. However, you don’t have to avoid all of them if you follow a gluten-free diet. You should check the labels on all your foods carefully before you buy them at the store or prepare them at home.
The idea behind the gluten-free diet is to avoid cross-contamination with foods that contain gluten.
For example, if you touch your hands to your mouth after touching flour or another food containing gluten, there’s an increased risk of developing the celiac disease or another autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis or type 1 diabetes.
If you have celiac disease, which is an autoimmune disorder where the body reacts to gluten in the same way it would react to cancer cells, then no amount of exposure can be considered safe for you.
People who do not have celiac disease but follow a gluten-free diet because they are sensitive to it can still consume some gluten-free products without getting sick because they don’t react so strongly to it.
Gluten is responsible for the elastic texture of the dough and is commonly used as a binding agent in various food products.
Here are some common sources of gluten in food and drink:
Wheat: This grain is the most common source of gluten and is found in a variety of products, including bread, pasta, cereals, crackers, pastries, and baked goods. Wheat is also often used as a thickening agent in soups, sauces, and processed meats.
Barley: This grain is used to make beer and is also found in some types of malt, malt vinegar, and malt extract.
Rye: This grain is used to make rye bread and other baked goods, as well as some types of whiskey.
Oats: Oats themselves do not contain gluten, but they are often grown and processed in facilities that also handle wheat, barley, and rye. As a result, oats can be contaminated with gluten.
If you are following a strict gluten-free diet, it is important to choose oats that are labeled “gluten-free” to ensure that they have been processed in a dedicated facility. The same rule applies while buying coffee.
Other sources of gluten include:
Soy sauce, marinades, and gravies, which are often made with wheat
Salad dressings, which may contain wheat-based thickening agents
Processed meats, which may contain wheat-based binders
Candies and chocolates, which may contain wheat-based ingredients
If Coffee Isn’t the Culprit, Then What?
In addition to considering the potential impact of coffee on your symptoms, there are other issues related to gluten intolerance that you should also explore.
These may include:
Lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorption, or other intolerances to carbohydrates (such as high FODMAPs)
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
Microscopic colitis
Pancreatic enzyme deficiencies
A rare condition called refractory celiac disease that may require the use of steroids to manage.
People with gluten sensitivity need to work with their healthcare providers to identify and address any of these potential causes of their symptoms.
This could be due to cross-reactivity, which occurs when the body mistakes a protein in a particular food for gluten because of its similar protein structure.
When this happens, the immune system releases anti-a-gliadin and anti-tTG antibodies to fight the perceived “gluten,” leading to inflammation in the small intestine.
Instant coffee was also found to be cross-reactive, but “pure coffee,” or black coffee, was not.
Therefore, plain brewed coffee is a safe choice for those with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity to avoid hidden gluten ingredients.
If you don’t enjoy plain black coffee, consider trying Expedition Roasters’ variety of flavors, such as coffee crumb cake, blueberry cobbler, and churro. These coffees are certified to be gluten-free and allergen-free.
Do I Have to Give Up “Flavored Coffee” on a Gluten-Free Diet?
Pre-flavored coffee beans or ground coffee may be labeled as “gluten-free” and are generally considered to be gluten-free.
However, coffee flavorings are often made with a proprietary blend of “natural flavors,” which can include gluten-containing ingredients, such as barley-based flavorings.
But it is uncommon for natural flavors used in coffee to be derived from gluten grains.
Many coffee flavorings also have an alcohol base, which is typically derived from grains, including gluten grains.
Some experts believe that the gluten protein is removed during the distillation process, making the alcohol gluten-free, but some people with gluten sensitivity may still react to distilled grains.
The amount of grain-based alcohol in flavored coffee is small, and even if it contained residual gluten, it would be below the level of 20 parts per million that is generally considered “gluten-free”, according to this Celiac Disease Foundation article.
However, some people may be sensitive even to trace amounts of gluten, so it is important to exercise caution if you have not tried flavored coffee before, especially if you tend to react to gluten-based distilled alcoholic beverages or are particularly sensitive to trace amounts of gluten.
Alternatively, you can make your own flavored coffee at home using alcohol-free flavoring.
Is Instant Coffee Gluten-Free?
While most instant coffees are gluten-free, it is possible for them to contain gluten due to the highly processed nature of instant coffee.
If you find it difficult to give up the convenience to drink instant coffee, consider trying Alpine Start’s gluten-free instant coffee options. This gluten-free instant coffee comes in coconut creamer latte, dirty chai latte, and regular flavors.
However, the 2013 study also found that some types of instant coffee can be cross-reactive for people with celiac disease, while others were not.
The longer the process between growing the beans and packaging the final product, the greater the risk of gluten cross-contamination. This is known as “gluten cross-contact”.
Gluten cross-contamination occurs when gluten-free food comes into contact with gluten through another food, kitchen equipment or utensils, or a person.
Now that we come to this, let’s discuss …
Potential Sources of Gluten Contamination in Coffee and What to Do About It
There are two potential stages of gluten contamination in coffee that you should be aware of if you are following a gluten-free diet. It has a very funny way to sneak into your cup of coffee:
At the Processing Stage
As you already know, coffee itself is naturally gluten-free.
However, if coffee beans are processed in a facility that also handles gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, or rye, there is a risk of cross-contamination of the beans.
Gluten contamination can also occur through traditional coffee add-ins, such as creamers or sugar packets, which may contain gluten.
Tip 1 – Buy Organic Beans and Grind Them at Home
To avoid this risk, it is suggested to buy plain coffee beans and grind them at home to ensure that there is no contamination with gluten-containing products.
However, it is important to note that even plain coffee beans may have been processed on equipment that also handles gluten-containing products.
So it may be necessary to look for beans that are certified gluten-free to ensure that they have not been contaminated during processing.
The Cafe Britt Origin Coffee is our favorite gluten-free coffee brand. These beans are made from 100% pure Costa Rican Arabica beans and are grown at high altitudes.
The company’s Origin Coffee is also kosher. Additionally, the beans are packaged in a tri-layer aluminum bag to help maintain their freshness.
Tip 2 – Avoid Using Shared Grinders
If you are using shared equipment to grind coffee beans, there is a risk that the plain beans may become contaminated with flavored beans, which may contain gluten.
To minimize this risk, it is recommended to grind your own coffee using a dedicated coffee grinder.
Tip 4 – Check the Labels or Ask the Manufacturer Directly
You can check the labels of the coffee beans or the add-ins for an allergen disclosure statement, or you can contact the company directly to inquire about their processes and ingredients.
You can also look on the company’s website for more information about their products. You must be vigilant about checking labels always if you’re sensitive to gluten.
At the Café
It’s important to be aware that cross-contamination can also occur at restaurants and cafes, especially if they are using the same coffee maker to brew all types of coffee, including flavored ones.
For example, Starbucks’ flavored coffee drinks, such as the Pumpkin Spice Latte, may not be considered gluten-free due to the risk of cross-contamination from other products like the coffee machine in Starbucks and the possibility of ingredients varying from store to store.
Tip 5 – Order Plain Coffee Without Any Creamers or Sugar
You should be aware that adding creamers, syrups, and sugar to your coffee can increase the risk of gluten contamination.
Some powdered creamers may contain gluten, especially flavored ones, as they may include thickening agents and other ingredients that contain gluten, such as wheat flour.
To minimize the risk of gluten contamination, it is recommended to stick to plain coffee or lattes when ordering at these types of establishments.
Beware of This Rumor
Contrary to popular belief, coffee companies do not add wheat to their coffee beans to prevent them from sticking together.
This is a rumor that is not true and there is no evidence to suggest that any coffee company would do this.
It is important to be mindful of spreading misinformation and to always verify the information before sharing it.
Buy from Specialty Brands to Avoid Gluten Contamination
Consider buying specialty products like Laird Superfood creamers, which are dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free, to reduce the possibility of gluten contaminating your coffee.
While well-known brands like Coffee-Mate and International Delight are often regarded as gluten-free, choosing a specialty brand might provide those who are sensitive to trace quantities of gluten additional peace of mind.
Pre-flavored coffee blends, such as chocolate hazelnut or French vanilla, are generally considered gluten-free, as it is rare for artificial flavorings in the US to be made from barley or wheat.
How to Brew Gluten-Free Coffee at Home
Brewing gluten-free coffee at home is relatively simple and requires only a few steps:
Start by purchasing certified gluten-free coffee beans or ground coffee. Look for coffee beans that are labeled as “gluten-free” or are certified by a third-party organization to ensure that they have been produced in a dedicated facility.
Clean all your coffee-making equipment, including your coffee pot, grinder, and filters, to remove any potential sources of gluten contamination.
Place the coffee filter in the coffee pot or machine and add the ground coffee. Opt for a paper filter, as some reusable filters may be made from gluten-containing materials, such as nylon or stainless steel.
Boil water and pour it over the coffee, using the appropriate amount of water for the amount of coffee you are brewing.
Allow the coffee to brew for the desired amount of time, usually around 4-5 minutes for drip coffee makers.
If you add milk to your coffee, choose a gluten-free option (lactose-free milk or plant-based milk) such as almond milk or soy milk.
That’s it! You can now enjoy a delicious and safe cup of coffee at home.
To Brew Coffee Using a French Press, Follow These Steps:
Step – 1:
First, you’ll need to grind your beans. You’ll want to grind them coarsely—like, really coarse. The best way to do this is with a burr grinder, which will give you the perfect consistency for French press coffee.
Step – 2:
Next, place your French press carafe on a scale and zero it out. Measure out 35 grams of ground coffee and reset the scale to zero.
Step – 3:
You can then measure in 250 grams of hot water and stir for 5 seconds before pouring in more water until the scale reaches 500 grams total. Let it steep for 2 minutes before stirring again.
Step – 4:
After an additional 2 minutes, slowly press down the plunger on the carafe to separate the coffee grounds and serve the coffee.
If you want cold brew instead of hot brew, simply combine 4 cups of water per 1 cup of whole beans and let it steep overnight before drinking a concentrated brew with ice as desired.
Caffeine and Gluten-Free Coffee Alternatives
There are a few different options for gluten-free coffee alternatives that can provide a similar flavor to coffee.
One popular choice is roast chicory root, which is a bitter vegetable that is roasted and ground to create a caffeine-free alternative.
Chicory root is also prebiotic, meaning that it nourishes the good bacteria in the gut, which can contribute to overall better health.
There are two types of caffeine-free coffee substitutes that you can buy: instant or French press style.
However, it is important to check the label before purchasing to ensure that the product is gluten-free, as some coffee substitutes contain barley.
You won’t find these coffee alternatives in your regular grocery stores. Look for them at high-end health food stores or online retailers such as Amazon.
FAQs
Which coffee brands are gluten-free?
You can check the website of the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) to see if any coffee brands have been certified as gluten-free by this third-party agency. Upon reviewing the list, it does not appear that any mainstream popular coffee brands are currently certified gluten-free by the GFCO.
Is Starbucks regular coffee gluten-free?
You can be confident that Starbucks’ regular coffee is gluten-free, as stated in the company’s FAQ on Amazon. The coffee is made without wheat products. However, it’s not safe to drink it at a store, as the stores may prepare coffee alongside other products and ingredients containing gluten, leading to a risk of getting cross-contaminated with allergens. Is instant coffee gluten-free?
Is instant coffee gluten-free?
I’ve been drinking instant coffee every day without any problems. Instant coffee is naturally gluten-free as long as it only contains coffee as an ingredient.
Does NESCAFE instant coffee have gluten?
Nescafe coffee, which is owned by Nestle, does not contain gluten according to the company. Nestle considers a product to be gluten-free if no gluten ingredients are present, either directly or because of cross-contact. If a product label includes an allergen advisory statement, such as “may contain wheat,” it is not considered to be gluten-free by Nestle. It is recommended by the company to check the label for the most current information before purchasing and consuming Nescafe coffee or any other product.
What drinks can celiacs drink?
Celiacs can drink coffee, tea, and other beverages made from naturally gluten-free ingredients, such as almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. Other gluten-free drinks include soda, carbonated water, natural wine, sports drinks, and organic fruit juices.
What foods aggravate celiac disease?
Foods that contain gluten, such as wheat, barley, and rye, can aggravate celiac disease. Apart from these, other grains that contain gluten include spelt, kamut, and triticale. Foods that may contain gluten include bread, cereals, pasta, gravies, sauces, and some processed meats.
Can coffee help with celiac disease?
No, drinking coffee does not help with celiac disease. However, it may be safe for a gluten-free diet if it is prepared and served with gluten-free ingredients.
Matcha drinks Starbucks come in a variety of flavors and sizes so find out which one is your favorite and the best matcha Starbucks order to satisfy your cravings.
The best Starbucks matcha drinks come in a variety of flavors, so there’s something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for a refreshing and energizing drink or something sweet and creamy, there’s a matcha drink for you. My favorites vary from season to season as I can have either hot matcha green tea or iced matcha tea latte. Plus, you can always customize Starbucks matcha drinks to make them even more special.
What Is Matcha?
Matcha tea is a type of green tea powder that is high in antioxidants. The leaves of conventional green tea are steeped in boiling water before being thrown away. In contrast, when using matcha, the dried leaves are pounded into a powder, added to the beverage, and then sipped as matcha green tea. The tea is considered the most aromatic green tea because of its distinctive, non-bitter flavor and vivid green color.
Matcha green tea is high in antioxidants but low in calories. An essential component of matcha’s nutritional value is its antioxidants that help detoxify, lessen inflammation, and shield cells from harm that can speed up aging and cause disease.
Additionally, matchateacontains more caffeine than brewed green tea. Two grams or one teaspoon of matcha green tea contains between 37.8 and 88.8 mg of caffeine. Whereas 29.4 milligrams of caffeine is present in one cup of brewed Japanese green tea.
What Are The Good Matcha Drinks At Starbucks?
Number Of Matcha Scoops Per Cup In Starbucks Matcha Drinks
Starbucks Matcha Drink
Short
Tall
Grande
Venti
Trenta
Matcha Tea Latte
1
2
3
4
N/A
Iced Matcha Tea Latte
N/A
2
3
4
N/A
Iced Matcha Lemonade
N/A
2
3
4
5
Matcha Crème Frappuccino® Blended Beverage
N/A
2
3
4
N/A
Iced Pineapple Matcha Drink
N/A
2
3
4
N/A
TikTok Matcha Pink Drink
N/A
1
1
1
1
Cha Cha Latte
N/A
2
3
4
N/A
Green Tea Matcha
N/A
1
2
3
N/A
Peppermint Pow Frappucino
N/A
2
2½
3
N/A
Green Drink
N/A
N/A
1
N/A
There are many Starbucks matcha drinks, some on the regular menu while some on the Starbucks secret menu. To shed light on the best matcha latte order Starbucks drinks, we have listed below the best Starbucks matcha drinks and how to order them.
01 Matcha Green Tea Latte
One of the most popular matcha drinks Starbucks is the matcha green tea latte. Steamed milk and matcha powder are added to make a smooth and creamy concoction that is subtly sweet. Matcha order Starbucks of this beverage comes in Venti, Grande, Tall, and Short sizes. 2% milk is used but you can swap it with whole milk, a non-dairy alternative, cream, etc.
You can choose toppings, sweeteners, and other add-ins to customize your order. The matcha tea latte Grande size contains 3 scoops of matcha powder, 240 calories, and 80 milligrams of caffeine.
02 Iced Matcha Latte
This is the iced version of the regular matcha tea latte. So, instead of the hot beverage, you are served a matcha tea latte over ice. It’s available in the Venti (24-ounce), Grande (16-ounce), and Tall (12-ounce) sizes. You can have it with extra ice, no ice, or light ice.
The Grande cup of iced matcha tea latte contains 200 calories and 80 milligrams of caffeine. If you want a higher caffeine boost, order the Venti cup of this beverage, which contains 110 milligrams of caffeine. The iced matcha green tea latte Starbucks review praises this beverage for its creamy mouthfeel, subtly sweet flavor, and earthy undertones.
03 Iced Matcha Lemonade
This bright green beverage looks as refreshing as it actually tastes. Lemonade is shaken with ice after combining with finely powdered Teavana matcha tea to craft this matcha lemonade to brighten up your summer days. The combination of the sourness from the lemonade with the sweetened matcha tea meets halfway to create the perfect balance.
In the Grande cup size of iced matcha lemonade, you get 120 calories and 80 milligrams of caffeine. You can also order the matcha lemonade in Trenta, Venti, and Tall sizes. Switch up flavors, sweeteners, toppings, and even the lemonade strength to get this Starbucks iced matcha drink just the way you want it.
04 Matcha Crème Frappuccino® Blended Beverage
Available in Venti, Grande, and Tall cup sizes at Starbucks, the matcha crème frappuccino blended beverage is a dessert by itself. Milk, ice, and matcha tea are blended and crowned with a generous serving of whipped cream. With a wide range of different toppings, flavored sauces, syrups, and add-in options, you can notch this up to reach the height of Starbucks matcha decadence.
The caffeine content in the Grande cup of matcha crème frappuccino is 70 milligrams while you get a massive amount of calories even without adding extra toppings and sauces – 420. So, you may want to be careful before asking for add-ins if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Besides the above matcha from Starbucks regular menu, you can order the following matcha beverages from the secret menu.
05 Iced Pineapple Matcha Drink
This is a great matcha Starbucks drink for those who are lactose-intolerant as it’s made from coconut milk. Pineapple ginger syrup is added to the signature Starbucks matcha powder and shaken with coconut milk to make the iced pineapple matcha drink. The sweetness from matcha combines with spicy ginger and tangy pineapples to create a tropical treat fit for a cruel summer day. To top it all, the nutty notes from the coconut milk add a warm flavor.
Order either a Venti, Grande, or Tall size to experience this iced pineapple matcha drink at Starbucks. The Grande cup contains 170 calories and only 80 milligrams of caffeine making it one of the healthiest Starbucks matcha drinks.
06 TikTok Matcha Pink Drink
This is a Starbucks secret menu matcha drink popularized by TikTok, hence the name. You cannot ask the barista to serve you a matcha pink drink. The right way to order it is by asking for a Pink Drink Starbucks Refreshers Beverage and topping it with vanilla sweet cream cold foam blended with a scoop of matcha powder.
The Starbucks Pink Drink is a concoction of Strawberry Acai Refreshers beverage – with hints of passionfruit – and coconut milk. Its fruity flavor and taste combine well with the matcha cold foam for a delightful two-toned summer refresher. You can order a Trenta, Venti, Grande, or Tall size of the Matcha Pink Drink.
There are 140 calories and 45 milligrams of caffeine in the base drink so when you add a scoop of matcha powder, the caffeine content increases to 75 milligrams. Each scoop of Starbucks matcha powder has 30 milligrams of caffeine. The Short size matcha tea latte ingredients consist of milk and one scoop of matcha powder. So, calculate the caffeine content accordingly as per the cup size you order.
And if you need to keep a tab on the calorie intake, remember that one scoop of Starbucks matcha powder contains 25 calories. So, add 25 to the base calorie count per cup size and 30 milligrams of caffeine for every scoop. Ideally, you should not ask for more than one scoop of matcha powder for the matcha cold foam.
07 Cha Cha Latte
If you love chai latte as much as I do, you wouldn’t want to miss this twist on Starbucks matcha latte. It’s an iced matcha tea latte with chai syrup instead of classic syrup. For this Starbucks matcha order, what to add to matcha latte: Starbucks is one pump of chai syrup in the Tall cup, 1½ pumps for a Grande, or 2 pumps for a Venti.
You’ll be surprised by how well the sweetness of the matcha powder complements the spicy flavor of the chai syrup. You can have this hot too. Since you need at least a pump of the chai syrup to make these Starbucks matcha drinks, it’s better to order a Tall cup rather than a Short one.
There are 20 calories per pump in Starbucks classic syrup compared to 28 calories per pump in the chai syrup, so depending on the cup size you order and the number of chai syrup pumps, the calorie intake will vary. So, a Grande size will contain the basic 240 calories plus 42 calories from 1½ pumps of chai syrup, totaling the calorie count to 282.
As for the caffeine content, Starbucks classic syrup has zero caffeine but one pump of their chai syrup has about 25 milligrams. So, a Grande cup will contain the base 80 plus 37.5 milligrams which is equal to 117.5 milligrams of caffeine.
08 Green Tea Matcha
For an unadulterated taste of matcha tea blend, you can order the green tea matcha if you’re in the mood for the real thing. Have it either hot or iced to get the true essence of matcha without any syrups or toppings to dial down the strong matcha flavor and taste or to make the texture creamy. With no milk added, it’s a perfect drink for lactose-intolerant people.
As each scoop of the matcha powder has 30 milligrams of caffeine and 25 calories, the total count will vary depending on the cup size you order. A Grande cup will contain 2 scoops or 60 milligrams of caffeine and 50 calories, making this a very healthy and the best Starbucks matcha drink.
09 Peppermint Pow Frappuccino
If you’re a fan of peppermint shakes, then try this Starbucks secret menu Peppermint Pow Frappuccino. The vanilla bean sweetness from the non-fat Vanilla Bean Frappuccino sets off the slight bitterness in the matcha green tea and the peppermint sauce adds a fresh nuance to the ensemble. To order this Starbucks beverage, ask for a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino to be mixed with matcha green powder and peppermint syrup. Top it off with whipped cream if you fancy it.
For a Tall cup size, add one pump of peppermint syrup and 2 scoops of matcha powder. If you want a Grande size, 2 pumps of syrup and 2½ scoops of matcha should be good. For the Venti cup, 3 pumps of syrup and 3 scoops of matcha powder are perfect. The caffeine and calorie count will vary as per the cup size, pumps of syrup, and scoops of matcha you prefer.
10 Secret Menu Green Drink
When an iced matcha latte, black tea, and coconut milk collide in this Starbucks matcha drink, you get a unique beverage that’s sweet and robust. Nicely complemented by the nutty coconut milk, Starbucks secret menu green drink is for those who are adventurous and not afraid to mix and match flavors and tastes.
To order, simply ask for an iced black tea with no water, substitute the water with coconut milk, and add a scoop of matcha powder. Whether you get chai tea, Royal English Breakfast tea, or Earl Grey tea, the Grande size contains 40 milligrams of caffeine. Add the caffeine content from one scoop of matcha powder (30 milligrams) and you have 70 mg of caffeine per Grande cup. The total calorie content will depend on the amount of coconut milk that’s added.
Calories And Caffeine Content In Starbucks Matcha Drinks
Matcha Drinks Starbucks
Sizes
Calories In Grande Size
Caffeine In Grande Size (in mg)
Matcha Tea Latte
Venti, Grande, Tall, Short
240
80
Iced Matcha Tea Latte
Venti, Grande, Tall
200
80
Iced Matcha Lemonade
Tall, Grande, Venti, Trenta
120
80
Matcha Crème Frappuccino® Blended Beverage
Venti, Grande, Tall
420
70
Iced Pineapple Matcha Drink
Venti, Grande, Tall
170
80
TikTok Matcha Pink Drink
Tall, Grande, Venti, Trenta
165
75
Cha Cha Latte
Venti, Grande, Tall
282
117.5
Green Tea Matcha
Venti, Grande, Tall
50
60
Green Drink
Tall, Grande, Venti, Trenta
May vary
50
Green Tea Matcha At Starbucks
Sweetened matcha powder is added to any Starbucks matcha drink. Since real matcha powder doesn’t dissolve in hot water as quickly as Starbucks matcha powder does, it more closely resembles instant matcha powder than real matcha powder. But Starbucks matcha powder uses real matcha; it is simply mixed with sugar to dilute the tea’s potent flavor.
So for those of you looking for sugar-free matcha drinks in Starbucks, you won’t get any as the matcha powder they use contains sugar. However, for those who need not worry about sugar intake and are looking for Starbucks gluten free food, you won’t be disappointed as matcha drinks feature in this list.
FAQs
Does Matcha Have Caffeine Starbucks?
Matcha carries the same caffeine content as other types of Japanese green tea, although matcha has less of it than a standard cup of coffee or an espresso shot. Naturally, the amount of matcha and caffeine will depend on the size of the beverage. Although the amount of caffeine may vary significantly, on average, matcha drinks at Starbucks have 30 mg in the Short, 55 mg in the Tall, 80 mg in the Grande, and 110 mg of caffeine in the Venti size.
Is The Matcha Drink At Starbucks Healthy?
A Starbucks matcha drink is healthy as long as you don’t add extra sweeteners, toppings, and other add-ins that are full of calories. Matcha green tea powder by itself has low calories and is healthy when taken with water only.
Find out the strong coffee drinks Starbucks offers so that you can try the coffee with the maximum caffeine level or dial down for a more mellow cup.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed and need extra fuel to make it through the day? If so, you’re not alone. For many of us, coffee is a source of comfort and energy. Starbucks has always been one of the most popular coffee chains, offering a wide variety of flavors and brewing techniques. With its strong coffee flavors, Starbucks is the perfect place to kick your morning into high gear or to perk up your afternoon. From bold espresso blends to dark roast blends, our favorite coffee chain has plenty of caffeinated drinks.
Let’s find out the strong coffee Starbucks drinks to rev up your mornings!
How Much Caffeine Is Okay For You?
To put things in perspective, let’s look at the number of mg of caffeine an adult can take daily. Once you know the limit, you can decide which Starbucks blend has the most caffeine and whether you should have a second cup. According to Mayo Clinic, 400 milligrams of caffeine is the safe limit for an average and healthy adult. That’s equivalent to about 4 cups of brewed coffee, 10 cola cans, or 2 shots of energy drinks.
Heavy caffeine consumption can have undesirable side effects, even in adults. Additionally, those who are extremely sensitive to caffeine’s effects or who take specific medication may want to avoid it.
What Is Starbucks Clover Brewing System?
The Clover brewing system is a revolutionary way of brewing coffee that enhances and unlocks the distinctive flavor characteristics of specialty coffees. The system combines the best aspects of the vacuum pot and coffee press processes. The result is individual cups of the freshest coffee served to the customer in the shortest time. The company behind this innovation was bought by Starbucks in 2008 and that’s why you can’t buy Clover coffee machines. Besides Clover, other coffee machines in Starbucks are also used.
NO.
Starbucks Coffee
Grande (16-oz)
1
Veranda Blend Brewed Coffee
360
2
Clover Brewed® Gold Coast Blend®
380
3
Iced Clover Brewed® Gold Coast Blend®
380
4
Espresso Roast Clover®
380
5
Iced Espresso Roast Clover®
380
6
Italian Roast Clover®
380
7
Iced Clover Brewed® Italian Roast
380
8
Komodo Dragon Clover®
380
9
Iced Komodo Dragon Clover®
380
10
Sumatra Clover®
380
11
Iced Sumatra Clover®
190
12
Clover Brewed® Pike Place® Roast
375
13
Iced Pike Place® Roast Clover®
375
14
Organic Yukon Blend® Clover®
375
15
Iced Organic Yukon Blend® Clover®
375
16
Caffé Verona® Clover®
375
17
Iced Caffé Verona® Clover®
190
18
Veranda Blend Clover
340
19
Iced Veranda Blend® Clover®
340
20
Featured Medium Roast – Pike Place® Roast
310
21
Iced Toasted Vanilla Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
255
22
Starbucks® Cold Brew Coffee
205
23
Starbucks® Cold Brew Coffee with Milk
205
24
Iced Caffè Americano
225
25
Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew
185
26
Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
185
27
Chocolate Cream Cold Brew
185
28
Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew
280
29
Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew
265
01 Veranda Blend Brewed Coffee
What’s Starbucks strongest coffee you ask? Well, with 475 milligrams of caffeine in a Venti (20-ounce) cup size and 360 milligrams in a Grande (16-ounce) cup, Veranda Blend is the strongest Starbucks brewed coffee in the Hot Coffees selection. Made from the best Latin American beans grown on family-owned farms, the Veranda Blend is a light roast full of flavor with a mellow, soft taste.
You can also order it in smaller Starbucks cup sizes of Tall (12 ounces) or Short (8 ounces) if you want to get the flavor and taste without going OTT on the caffeine intake.
02 Clover Brewed® Gold Coast Blend®
Next on the list of the strongest Starbucks coffee beans is the Clover Brewed Coast Blend. It’s a tribute to Chicago, where it all began in 1987. Carefully curated coffee beans from Latin America and Indonesia are blended with the sweetness of the dark Italian roast to create a coffee with a big, robust, sweet, and sophisticated profile. The Venti size coffee made from this blend contains 470 milligrams of caffeine while the Grande has 380 milligrams. It’s also available in shorter cup sizes on the Starbucks menu if you want to limit your caffeine intake.
And if you want an iced coffee with the same blend, choose from either a Venti or a Grande size and they contain the same caffeine amount as their hot counterparts, making it the strongest coffee at Starbucks.
03 Espresso Roast Clover®
Another choice of the strongest coffee at Starbucks with 470 milligrams of caffeine per Venti serving is the Espresso Roast Clover coffee. The superb combination of caramel and molasses notes can take you to a different world of decadence. You can take it black to sample the strongest Starbucks ground coffee or with steamed milk. Or, to take things slowly, order a Grande size containing 380 milligrams of caffeine. And if you’re not too sure, start by ordering a Short or Tall size.
You can have the iced coffee version of this blend – Iced Espresso Roast Clover. It’s available in Venti, Grande, and Tall sizes and contains 470, 380, and 280 milligrams of caffeine, respectively.
04 Italian Roast Clover®
Do you want a hint of s’more in your coffee? If yes, then Italian roast brewed coffee is the best choice for you as it not only has the notes of the most indulgent duo of dark cocoa and roasted marshmallows but is also a strong cup made from Starbucks strongest coffee beans. The Venti size has 470 milligrams of caffeine while the Grande size has 380. Also available in Short and Tall cups, the Italian Roast Clover coffee can satisfy your campfire cravings without going overboard on the caffeine.
For an iced coffee made from this strong Starbucks blend, choose the Iced Clover Brewed® Italian Roast in either Venti, Grande, or Tall size. The caffeine content in these sizes is 470, 380, and 280 milligrams per serving, respectively.
05 Komodo Dragon Clover®
Komodo dragon is the national animal of Indonesia, and you have probably guessed by now that the Komodo Dragon Clover coffee is a blend of coffee beans from Indonesia. The earthy tones are accentuated with a lingering aroma of spice and fresh herbs to make this an excellent coffee to start your day with a cup made from some of the strongest Starbucks ground coffee.
With 470 milligrams of caffeine in a Venti serving and 380 milligrams of caffeine in a Grande cup, you will be able to feel the energy. The Short and Tall sizes are also available. You can get the same blend in a Starbucks iced coffee form. Three sizes are available – Venti, Grande, and Tall – with the caffeine content of 470, 380, and 280 milligrams per serving according to the cup size.
06 Sumatra Clover®
The Sumatra Clover is also made from Indonesian beans so it’s no surprise that this blend of Clover brewed coffee can produce the darkest coffee at Starbucks. With earthy notes of dried herbs and fresh earth and a full-bodied texture and smooth mouthfeel, the Venti size packs in 470 milligrams of caffeine while the Grande size contains 380 milligrams. You can also ask the barista to serve either a Short or Tall size of this brewed coffee.
Try the iced Sumatra Clover if you’re in the mood for something cold. It’s available in Venti, Grande, and Tall cup size. The caffeine content as per the cup sizes are 275, 190, and 140 milligrams per serving.
07 Clover Brewed® Pike Place® Roast
From the moment Starbucks opened its doors in Seattle’s Pike Place Market to the moment it opened coffee shops around the globe, customers asked for a cup of freshly brewed coffee they could sip throughout the day. So in 2008, the master roasters and blenders at Starbucks made a blend that is so consistent and well-balanced that no one characteristic takes center stage or vanishes altogether.
It is the ideal daily Clover medium roast brewed coffee because it is a smooth, well-balanced blend of coffees from Latin America with rich, subtle flavors of cocoa and toasted almonds. The Venti size coffee made from this contains 445 milligrams of caffeine while the Grande cup is packed with 375 milligrams. Sometimes we can get confused between Starbucks Tall Vs Grande and wonder which one is the best.
Try the Iced Pike Place® Roast Clover® for a cold treat. Available in Venti, Grande, and Tall cups, each packs in the same caffeine content as the hot coffee version, creating the strongest coffee at Starbucks for you.
08 Organic Yukon Blend® Clover®
A wonderful blend of Indonesian and Latin American beans has resulted in the Organic Yukon Blend Clover. Every cup of the darkest coffee at Starbucks is vibrant and deep with earthy notes and liveliness you can’t miss. The Venti cup of this Clover brewed coffee contains 445 milligrams of caffeine and the Grande size contains 375 milligrams. You can also order this brewed coffee in smaller sizes Short and Tall.
Order Iced Organic Yukon Blend® Clover® in a Venti, Grande, or Tall cup for a strong cold brew coffee from this blend. They have the same caffeine content as brewed coffee.
09 Caffé Verona® Clover®
The cocoa and caramelized sugar flavor profile of the Caffe Verona Clover dark roast brewed coffee is exquisitely dark, deep, and sweet. This is best paired with dark chocolate to bring out the sweetness. Each Venti cup of this Clover brewed coffee from Starbucks contains 445 milligrams of caffeine and the Grande size contains 375 milligrams. Also available in Short and Tall sizes for a lower caffeine intake but the same rich experience.
To take it to another level, try the cold brew coffee from this blend – Iced Caffé Verona® Clover®. Choose from Venti, Grande, or Tall cup sizes. The caffeine content in order of the sizes is 275, 190, and 140 milligrams per cup.
10 Veranda Blend Clover
If you want to step down a bit on the caffeine ladder, choose a lightly roasted Latin American coffee in the form of Veranda Blend Clover with a flavor profile of milk chocolate and toasted malt. The Venti cup of Veranda Blend Clover has 425 milligrams of caffeine and its Grande cup has 340 milligrams. If you’re looking for a lower amount of caffeine, then choose either the Short (8-ounce) or Tall (12-ounce) cup.
A cold brew coffee crafted from the same blend is the Iced Veranda Blend® Clover® in cup sizes Venti, Grande, and Tall. The caffeine content is the same as in the hot brewed version.
11 Featured Medium Roast – Pike Place® Roast
The coffee with the lowest caffeine content in the Hot Coffees selection but still within the vicinity of 400 milligrams per Venti cup is the Featured Medium Roast – Pike Place® Roast with 410 milligrams of caffeine in the Venti size and 310 milligrams in the Grande cup. This is brewed fresh for you and served in a cup.
For a less intense caffeine kick, you can also order this in a Short or Tall size. To get the best flavor and aroma from the medium roast Pike Place Roast coffee, avoid adding toppings, sweeteners, and creamers. For me, these add-ins spoil the true essence of coffee but of course, you can add them if you like.
12 Iced Toasted Vanilla Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
An invigorating treat to start your day off right is Starbucks® Blonde iced shaken espresso mixed with hints of caramelized vanilla and shaken together, then topped with oatmilk. The iced toasted vanilla oatmilk shaken espresso is available in Venti, Grande, and Tall size cups with per serving caffeine content of 340, 255, and 170 milligrams per cup, respectively.
13 Starbucks® Cold Brew Coffee
Clocking at 360 milligrams of caffeine in the Trenta or the tallest size cup at Starbucks, the Starbucks cold brew is special. It’s made from a house blend that can withstand steeping in cold water temperatures for 20 hours for the maximum flavor extraction. The smooth and bold flavor is fresh as the brew is made in small batches.
You can also order this cold brew in sizes Venti, Grande, and Tall. Each of these has a caffeine content per serving of 310, 205, and 155 milligrams.
14 Starbucks® Cold Brew Coffee with Milk
Another cold brew variation of the above is the Starbucks Cold Brew coffee with milk. It contains the same caffeine amount as the one sans milk – 360 milligrams in the Trenta cup. The only difference between the two cold brews is the addition of milk for a richer mouthfeel.
15 Iced Caffè Americano
A choice of Starbucks iced coffee with a high caffeine content is the iced caffe Americano. Espresso shots are served over ice after being topped with cold water to create a thin layer of crema. As a result, the beverage is rich, complex, and delicious. The Venti size has 300 milligrams of caffeine, while the Grande and Tall sizes have 225 and 150 milligrams of caffeine respectively.
16 Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew
Salted caramel is the perfect combo of sweet and salty. And if you get this flavor in a cup of cold brew coffee, nothing like it! That’s why, at Starbucks, you can order the Salted Caramel Cream cold brew for a smooth coffee experience with the right sweetness from caramel that’s set off by the thick, salted cold foam. With caffeine content of 320, 275, 185, and 145 milligrams per Trenta, Venti, Grande, and Tall cup, you are bound to get a nice caffeine high.
17 Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
Another cold brew with a relatively high caffeine content is the vanilla sweet cream cold brew. Vanilla is added to the slow-brewed, special Starbucks® Cold Brew coffee mix, and a delicate float of homemade vanilla sweet cream is added as a topping for the ultimate sweet luxury. This Starbucks cold brew packs in a caffeine content of 315 milligrams in the biggest size – Trenta – and 275, 185, and 145 milligrams in Venti, Grande, and Tall sizes, respectively.
18 Chocolate Crème Cold Brew
The chocolate cream cold brew coffee has one of the highest caffeine contents in the Cold Coffees selection with 315 milligrams of caffeine in the Trenta or 30-ounce cup size, 275 milligrams in the Venti cup, 185 milligrams in the Grande size, and 145 milligrams in the Tall size. It’s not available in the Short cup size.
It’s one of the best Starbucks brewed coffee with vanilla syrup and topped with a creamy and chocolatey cold foam.
19 Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew
The nitro cold brew is a special Starbucks drink that has nitrogen infused in it for a fuller body, a cascade of froth, and crema. It is poured from a keg to produce a beautiful and thick head. The nitro cold brew looks much like beer and is offered in only two sizes – Grande and Tall. The Venti or any larger size cup is not offered as in a larger cup, you won’t see the same cascading effect of foam caused by the nitrogen addition in the nitro cold brew.
The Grande size has a lower caffeine content than other strong coffee at Starbucks but still, it contains 280 milligrams in Grande and 215 milligrams in the Tall size. So, if you order the Starbucks Nitro cold Brew in the Grande size which is 16-ounce, you are going to fulfill 2 8-ounce cups of caffeine quota for the day.
20 Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew
Following close on the heels of the Starbucks nitro cold brew is the Vanilla sweet cream variation. As you have guessed, it is a Nitro Cold Brew but with a sweet house-made vanilla cream floating on top. It is offered in the same two sizes as the Nitro Cold Brew and the caffeine content in the vanilla sweet cream nitro cold brew is 265 milligrams in Grande and 200 milligrams in the Tall size.
Other Starbucks strong drinks with a medium to high caffeine content include:
Iced caramel macchiato with 225 milligrams of caffeine in the Venti cup;
Starbucks Blonde Vanilla Latte with two espresso shots in the Venti cup packed with 170 mg of caffeine;
Iced Caffè Mocha with the Venti size containing 265 mg of caffeine.
If you’re not up for these moderate to high caffeinated drinks, there are at least 30 Starbucks low caffeine drinks that can make your day.
Which Starbucks Ground Coffee Has The Most Caffeine?
If you’re wondering which Starbucks blend has the most caffeine, there are a few, not just any single blend. The Veranda Blend ground coffee from which the Veranda blend coffee is brewed is the strongest Starbucks coffee but only if you order a Venti or 20-ounce cup size. This size contains 475 milligrams of caffeine and the Grande cup (16-ounce) has 360 milligrams. But compared to other ground coffee from Starbucks, the Veranda blend contains less caffeine in the Grande cup size.
Ground coffee with a higher caffeine content in the Grande size at 380 milligrams per serving includes:
Clover Brewed® Gold Coast Blend®
Espresso Roast Clover®
Italian Roast Clover®
Komodo Dragon Clover®
Sumatra Clover®
Incidentally, the iced coffee versions of all the above-mentioned ground coffee contain the same amount of caffeine except Sumatra Clover – iced coffee made from Sumatra Clover contains 190 milligrams of caffeine.
Top 3 Tips To Maximize The Caffeine In Starbucks Coffee
Follow these tips to maximize the caffeine content in your Starbucks drinks to get a stronger kick.
01 Black coffee without any toppings and add-ins is the strongest as it has only coffee packed with caffeine and nothing else to lessen the effect. Try any of the Starbucks blends with the highest caffeine content.
02 You can add an additional espresso shot to any espresso-based coffee drink, such as a Caffe Americano or latte, to enhance the caffeine. One espresso shot has 75mg of caffeine, therefore adding more caffeine is really simple.
03 You don’t truly get 16 ounces of coffee when you order a Grande iced coffee. You are probably receiving approximately half of that. Ask for less ice to increase the amount of coffee you receive! By doing this, you get additional caffeine to keep your day going.
FAQs
Which Starbucks Coffee Is The Strongest?
Veranda Blend brewed coffee is the strongest coffee at Starbucks with 475 milligrams of caffeine in the Venti or 20-ounce cup.
Why Is Starbucks Coffee So Strong?
The method Starbucks roasts its coffee beans is the primary distinction between its product and competing brands. They roast the coffee very slowly, which brings out a more nuanced flavor. Starbucks coffee often has a significantly finer grind than other brands, which gives it a richer flavor.
Who Has Stronger Coffee Dunkin Or Starbucks?
Dunkin’s coffee has 220 milligrams of caffeine per cup on average, compared to an average of 267 milligrams in a cup of Starbucks coffee, making Starbucks coffees stronger.
Can Strong Coffee Cause Stomach Pain?
As a stimulant, caffeine can increase the amount of hydrochloric acid secreted by the stomach, which can be uncomfortable or painful. Other components in the coffee may be the source of these negative effects. For instance, because milk-based coffees contain lactose, persons who are lactose intolerant frequently experience pain or difficulty with strong coffee.
