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Americano

Writer's picture: Nikhil BharoliyaNikhil Bharoliya
Americano Coffee Photo

How Americano is Made

An Americano is a simple yet sophisticated coffee drink, made by diluting a shot of espresso with hot water. The result is a smooth coffee with the depth and intensity of espresso but without its heaviness. The origin of Americano is believed to be traced back to World War II when American soldiers, finding traditional espresso too strong, would dilute it with water to resemble the coffee back home.


The standard ratio is one shot of espresso with about 6-8 ounces of hot water. The hot water is typically added after the espresso, preserving the crema and delivering a well-balanced cup.


Variations of Americano

Even though Americano is a straightforward drink, there are still some creative ways to enjoy it:

  • Iced Americano: Perfect for warmer days, this drink is made by adding espresso to cold water over ice, preserving the flavor while making it refreshing.

  • Long Black: Similar to an Americano but with the reverse process. In this variation, hot water is poured first, and then the espresso is added on top, resulting in a bolder taste and richer crema.

  • Café Crema: A more diluted version of an Americano, with a ratio of espresso to water leaning more toward 1:10, creating a lighter flavor profile closer to traditional drip coffee.


How to Enjoy Americano More

An Americano offers endless possibilities for customization and can be enjoyed in many different ways to suit your taste:

  • Adjust the Strength: Like it bold? Add less water to keep the espresso's strength intact. If you prefer a milder experience, increase the amount of hot water to dilute the drink further.

  • Flavor Enhancements: You can add a small amount of milk or cream for a creamier texture, or a dash of flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut to sweeten the experience.

  • Add a Twist: A squeeze of lemon or a citrus zest can cut through the bitterness and add a refreshing twist to your Americano, especially when served iced.

  • Temperature Awareness: Americano is best enjoyed when not scalding hot. Allow it to cool slightly, which will bring out the subtle flavor notes in the espresso, especially if it’s a single-origin roast.


Americano Recipes from Barista Champions

Looking to give your Americano an extra boost? Here are a couple of inspiring recipes from world-class baristas:


  1. Spiced Americano by Sasa Sestic (World Barista Champion 2015)

    1. Ingredients:

      1. 1 shot of espresso

      2. 1 small cinnamon stick

      3. A pinch of cardamom

      4. 6-8 oz hot water

    2. Instructions: Add the spices to the hot water before pouring the espresso. Stir gently, allowing the flavors to infuse. This spiced twist adds warmth and complexity to the classic Americano.


  2. Mint Iced Americano by Dale Harris (World Barista Champion 2017)

    1. Ingredients:

      1. 1 shot of espresso

      2. A few fresh mint leaves

      3. Ice and cold water

    2. Instructions: Brew a shot of espresso and pour it over ice and cold water. Gently muddle fresh mint leaves and add them to the drink for a refreshing, minty take on the classic iced Americano.


With its simple yet bold profile, the Americano is a versatile drink that adapts to your tastes. Whether you prefer hot or iced, with added flavors or plain, there’s always a new way to enjoy this classic!

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