Before diving into the best times to enjoy your favourite brew, it’s essential to understand the various types of coffee available to you. From a punchy and smooth espresso to a creamy and comforting flat white, each type of coffee offers a unique taste and caffeine kick.
The chosen method of brewing will also significantly impact the flavour and strength of your coffee, whether it’s using a bean to cup coffee machine, an instant coffee machine, or an espresso machine. Let’s take a look at some popular coffee types and their recommended drinking times.
Espresso
Let’s start by focusing on the key ingredient in all of the delicious coffees we know and love, the humble espresso. A concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans, an espresso can being enjoyed on its own or used to create a range of coffees. Typically served in small cups called demitasses and is known for its strong, rich flavour and high caffeine content.
Traditionally, espresso is consumed in the afternoon or evening, often after a meal, as its qualities can help counteract any post-meal fatigue. Unlike milk-based coffees, espresso is suitable for later in the day as it doesn’t contain milk, which can often be harder to digest in the evening.
Cappuccino
As a well-known morning staple in many parts of the world, particularly in Italy, a classic cappuccino is made using a shot of espresso, then topped with steamed milk and finished off with a dense layer of frothy foam. The combination of caffeine, plus the lactose and fat content from the milk provides the energy boost needed in the morning. Enjoying a cappuccino in the morning allows you to take advantage of its invigorating properties without overwhelming your digestive system later in the day.
Cappuccinos are more filling than other coffee options, making them less suitable for a post-meal consumption.
Latte
Lattes are the milkiest form of coffee, making them a traditional choice for a weaker morning beverage. A latte consists of a shot of espresso mixed with steamed milk and a small amount of milk foam that sits on the top. This creamy and mild coffee is perfect for those who prefer a less intense coffee experience. In hot weather, you can opt for an iced latte, which is equally refreshing and delicious, while also being a great way to enhance the espresso flavour within the drink.
Even though lattes are typically consumed in the morning, don’t hesitate to enjoy one whenever you need a smooth and comforting coffee experience.
Macchiato
The macchiato is generally regarded as another popular choice for an afternoon pick me up due to its low milk content. It consists of a shot of espresso “stained” with a small amount of frothed or flat milk. The macchiato strikes a balance between the strong flavour of espresso and with a subtle amount of creamy milk, making it an excellent choice for those who want a bit of both.
Mocha
A mocha combines the best of both worlds: the rich indulgent flavour of espresso and the sweet, comforting taste of chocolate. Made with a base of espresso, and topped with steamed milk, and cocoa powder, a mocha can also be enjoyed with whipped cream for an extra special treat.
This coffee choice is another morning favourite, as its filling nature makes it a great mid-morning pick-me-up for a sugar and caffeine boost to see you through the day. The added sweetness from the chocolate can also help curb any early cravings for dessert.
Americano
An Americano is essentially a watered-down espresso, created by adding a hot water to a mug and pouring in a shot of espresso. This results in a coffee that is similar in strength to drip coffee but with a more distinct espresso flavour.
One of the good things about an Americano is its versatility; it can be enjoyed at any time of the day and easily adapted with a small amount of milk or sugar. Whether you need a quick morning boost or an afternoon refreshment, an Americano provides a balanced coffee experience without the heaviness of milk-based drinks.