Coffee is an important part of the day for many people, and espresso is a drink that has been around for many years. Like most popular drinks, it’s had its fair share of experimentation. One of the things people have tried to do with espresso over the years is figuring out what kind of cup they should use to serve it in.
Whether you drink it to start your morning or need a caffeine boost in the afternoon, coffee will always be there for you. Espresso cups are sometimes overlooked when it comes to drinking coffee, but they play an important role in tasting and enjoying your favorite cup of joe.
When it comes to making espresso, there are two things you need: a good coffee maker and a great cup. If you have an old pot that leaks or your favorite mugs are stained beyond repair, now may be the time to upgrade. There are tons of different cups on the market today, but not all are created equal. In this blog post, we will cover what an espresso cup is and some product recommendations for finding good cups.
What Is An Espresso Cup?
An espresso cup is a tiny coffee cup that’s used for serving shots of espresso. It’s effectively is a smaller version of a regular-sized coffee cup. It’s usually made of porcelain or glass, and it has an opening at the top called a “mouth” which can be used for drinking.
Espresso cups are typically smaller in size than coffee mugs to allow for a more concentrated flavor without too much liquid. It is typically used to serve espresso, which has its own flavor profile distinct from regular coffees. It’s usually less than six ounces, but the size varies depending on how it’s made.
The best espresso cups will have either ridge on the inside (called “spoons”) or small handles to help release heat from your hands when you’re drinking your beverage.
There are many different types of espresso cups, including normal glasses, tulip glasses, and even cups with lids. However, some people use small glasses or shot cups instead of real espresso cups, which may affect the taste of the espresso.
What Are The Different Types of Espresso Cups?
There are several different types of espresso cups. The most common types are traditional ceramic espresso cups, porcelain espresso cups, and metal espresso thermoses. Many of these do a great job of keeping coffee hot and making sure that it retains its true taste.
These are some of the most popular models:
Ceramic Espresso Cups
This type of espresso cup is available in a variety of colors. It is usually made from clay that’s fired at high temperatures, making them very durable and easy to clean. These cups are also usually microwavable.
Porcelain Espresso Cups
If you’re buying porcelain espresso cups, you can also buy them in a range of colors and patterns. Just like ceramic espresso cups, porcelain ones are microwaveable and easy to clean.
Metal Espresso Thermoses
These types of coffee mugs will keep your drink hot for hours. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some have double walls so the exterior doesn’t get too hot, while others may also include a handle on top.
Stainless Steel Espresso Cups
Stainless steel is an incredibly durable material. It’s also easy to clean and won’t rust or break. However, it can get pretty hot if you’re drinking plain espresso and doesn’t retain heat as well as other types of cups on this list.
Glass Espresso Cups
Lastly, glass cups are a great choice if you want something more stylish. They come in all shapes and sizes, and some are double-walled to help retain the heat of the drink, but make sure you don’t burn your hands. But make sure to pick one that’s durable enough not to break when it falls.
There Are Also Several Sizes of Coffee Cups…
As well as styles and materials, there are also several different sizes of coffee cups. A typical espresso cup is three ounces, but there are also larger models that hold up to six ounces.
Additionally, some of the cups we mentioned above also come in different sizes. Porcelain espresso cups can be found in three, four, and six-ounce varieties, while the metal thermoses can also range from four to twelve ounces.
Here are some of the most popular sizes of coffee cups:
Ristretto
Ristretto is the smallest type of espresso, with only 15 ml in one cup. This is because it’s an extremely strong form of coffee that has nothing in common with American drip coffee in terms of the flavor profile. It’s typically half the size of a regular-sized expresso shot, and very concentrated.
Espresso
The classic espresso shot is around 30 ml, which is about one ounce. It’s a quick shot of coffee that packs a punch and delivers an intense burst of flavor.
Doppio Normale
A doppio normale is double the size of a regular espresso shot, which makes it around 2 ounces. It’s a very strong coffee and great for those who prefer a stronger, more intense flavor. Additionally, ‘doppio’ means ‘double’ in Italian.
Lungo
A lungo is also two ounces in size. It’s a bit less strong than the doppio normale but still packs a flavorful punch. Some claim that it’s a bit more bitter than coffee because the drink takes longer to pull and the longer time affects the grounds’ extraction.
Demitasse
The word ‘demitasse’ is French for ‘half cup,’. This type of coffee only holds around two fluid ounces of coffee. It’s a small espresso drink that can be served after dinner or with liqueurs, such as amaretto.
Latte/Cappuccino
These are the largest of the coffee cups we mentioned, at 5 ounces (for a cappuccino) to 7 or 8 ounces (for a latte). They’re typically made with a one-ounce shot of espresso, and the rest is filled with steamed milk. They’re very creamy and delicious.
To be honest, there are so many different sizes and styles that it can get pretty overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for when buying espresso cups.
What Should You Look For In An Espresso Cup?
So, what should you keep an eye out for when buying an espresso cup?
First of all, do you need something that’s microwaveable?
Are you looking for a double-walled cup?
What size espresso drink will you be drinking most often? You may also want to think about if having an exterior handle is necessary or not.
Doppio normale cups tend to take the most time to pull since they’re double the size of regular espresso shots. So, you may want to consider that if your morning coffee routine is on the run. Also, keep in mind that some cups come with lids while others do not. This can be a game-changer for those who like drinking their coffee on the go and don’t want it to spill.
If you’re keeping the cup at home, then consider how much space you have available on your countertops. If there’s not much room for storage, go with a smaller espresso cup that won’t be in the way. So, these are some of the most common factors to look for when buying an espresso cup:
Size
The size certainly matters. You should consider your preferred size of coffee, as well as the size of the cup. The smallest cups will literally hold a single espresso shot, while many holds up to a double, and some hold considerably more. Latte cups are between eight and six ounces, cappuccino is five to seven ounces, doppio normale is around four or so ounces, and a lungo is about double the size of a regular espresso shot.
Material
The material matters, too. Some cups are made of ceramic while others are metal or glass. Think about your personal preference for this factor. The higher the quality of the cup, the better it will feel in your hand and hold heat, and the longer it will last.
Handle vs no handle
If you’ll be drinking on the go or carrying hot coffee with you, consider if a handle is necessary for you to get a good grip. If not, then no worries! Having a handle is great and really important if you like to drink your coffee on the go, but if you just want these cups to take up to your home office, then a handle will be less important.
Cup Shape
You’ll also want to think about the shape of an espresso cup before buying one. There are many different shapes out there, and it’s all about preference. There are cylindrical cups that look like a small serving of iced coffee, while others have an hourglass shape to them or one that resembles more of a teacup than anything else.
Durability
As with anything, you’ll want to consider how durable a cup is. This will be largely affected by the material that’s used to make the cup, but it’s definitely something to consider. Particularly if you’re going for a glass model or something that might shatter easily if it’s made from poor quality.
Ease of cleaning
When it comes to espresso cups, you’ll want something that’s easy to clean. Make sure there are no awkward grooves that might be difficult to get into. You may want to consider whether it’s dishwasher safe or not too.
Stackability and storage
Some espresso cups come as a stackable set. If storage space is an issue for you, then this might be a good option. You’ll want to consider how well the set stacks and if not, how you plan on storing your cups.
Saucers
Some espresso cups also come with saucers. This is nice if you don’t want to set your cup directly on the table or countertop, and is also nice for serving guests.
Number of cups
How many cups do you need and how many cups are in the set you are considering? Keep this in mind before buying.
Style and design
If you want something that goes with your kitchen decor, then you’ll want to consider style and design. This will be up to your personal preference, but there are so many different options out there that you’re sure to find something that works for your needs.
Rim
Don’t forget to think about the rim of the cup too. This will be a factor in how easy it is to drink from the cup without spilling.
Price
Of course, price is always an important factor. Think about how much you’re able to spend on espresso cups, and then consider what product offers the best value at that price point. You’ll want to compare it with similar products before making a final decision.
Our Top Espresso Cup Recommendations
DeLonghi Double Walled Thermo Espresso Glasses
Made by DeLonghi, these glasses are perfect for enjoying your espresso the way it’s meant to be. In addition, the smooth cream and subtle hues in a great shot are just as essential as the coffee’s taste, and this cup allows you to enjoy it all. They make a great gift idea too.
These double-walled glasses can contain up to 60ml of espresso and have an elegant design, making them suitable for everyday use. This set of shot glasses is made from high-quality Borosilicate glass that keeps drinks hot or cold without condensation. They are also BPA-free, resilient against breakage, and dishwasher safe.
Pros
- Double-walled glasses
- BPA free and dishwasher safe
- Suitable for everyday use
Cons
- Some people have complained that the glass breaks too easily
Jasni Stainless Steel Coffee Mugs, Espresso Cups, Great Cappuccino Cups with Spoon and Saucers
These double-walled espresso cups are all made of stainless steel. Stainless steel does not rust or corrode, and it is 100% recyclable – this means it can also be used to store any form of food safely without reacting to the material, making it ideal for all kinds of drinks, including espresso shots.
They come in an elegant design with nice finishes; they look great sitting on your tabletop, or next to your coffee machine. They have a lightweight size for easy handling and a comfortable ear-shaped handle making them easy to hold. The double-wall insulation prevents heat loss, keeping your coffee warm for longer without burning you!
Pros
- Made of durable stainless steel
- Double-wall insulation keeps coffee warmer for longer
- Ideal size, lightweight, easy to handle.
Cons
- Less attractive design than other models
Fellow Monty Latte Art Cups
These beautiful latte art cups by Fellow are elegant and thoughtfully made. They come in a set of two demitasse cups or one larger cup. The ceramic material creates pure espresso flavor but is also great for latte art with its sloping walls inside the cup.
Of course, they are also suitable for shots of espresso and cappuccino. They also look very nice and boast a nice design. However, the elegant look comes at a higher price point than other cups we’ve reviewed here today. Plus, this product has received mixed reviews from customers. Some feel that they are too fragile to use while others love their unique design.
Pros
- Perfect for latte art with sloping walls
- Elegantly made, with a sturdy design and metal bottom
- Suitable for both espresso and other types of coffee
Cons
- Some people think the cups are too fragile
Zenco Living Espresso Cups with Large Handle
These Zenco espresso cups are made with borosilicate glass. This is a tough, light, and flexible material that can endure significant temperature swings while simultaneously seeming lightweight and delicate. This set of six cups comes in a variety of colors including clear, grey, black, blue, red, green, and purple.
The cups are ideal for anyone looking for an appealing aesthetic whilst also wanting a cup that’s able to serve its function. The clear cups look classy and chic, while the colored ones add some color to your life. They’re perfect for use with both espresso shots and Nespresso machines.
Most people praise the simplicity and delicate look of this cup as well as its functionality; it is said that they are perfect for espresso shots.
Pros
- Great for both espresso and Nespresso
- Appealing aesthetic
- Durable material that can endure temperature fluctuations
- Large handles make them very easy to hold
Cons
- The glass design might not be for everyone
Sara Miller London Chelsea Collection 4fl oz Espresso Cups & Saucers Set of 4
Made by Sara Miller London, these espresso cups are made from fine bone china. They have a vibrant, sparkling color that is perfect for any occasion. Not only will you love the look of this set but also its fantastic quality and durability.
The outside features an enchanting pattern with gold accents while inside each cup has an intricate design in blue hues which adds real depth. The cups are dishwasher safe and each one measures a generous four ounces. This will be the perfect size for espresso or any other larger coffee drink you prefer to enjoy from your unique cup.
Pros
- The pattern is very attractive
- They are made from high-quality bone china
Cons
- Expensive
Sweese Espresso Cups
These cute and colorful cups by Sweese are perfect for espresso. They come in a set of six, each in a different color. These cups are made from porcelain and they are the perfect size for a double-shot of espresso. It is recommended to place them on top of your machine so that it is preheated before you pour the shot into these lovely cups. They have a range of different colors to suit every espresso lover and come in a set of 6.
The only downsides are that these cups don’t stack well, which some users found to be an issue. They are also rather heavy.
Pros
- Attractive, colorful design
- Durable and made of porcelain
- Comes in a set of 6
Cons
- Not stackable
- A little heavy
What Criteria Did We Use to Come Up With These Suggestions?
We used a range of criteria to come up with these product recommendations. These included the material, size of cups, costs, and any additional features that are important to consider. We considered the material type for instance, as well as the size and shape of each cup. We also checked for any additional features that might make a difference, such as insulation or handles on more pieces in the set.
We also thought about how easy they are to clean, whether or not they are dishwasher save, and if they stack well for storage purposes. Of course, we also thought about the price and checked to see if they are both within an affordable range and an appropriate price for the quality.
FAQs
Answer: The best size for an espresso cup is between 30ml and 60ml. Although, if you want your espresso cups to be multi-purpose and be able to hold larger drinks as well, you might want to consider buying a bigger model.
Answer: The best materials for making espresso cups are porcelain, ceramic, or glass. Steel can rust while plastic reacts to certain types of beverages – so these materials are not ideal.
Answer: Yes, they are good. They don’t rust and you can put them in the dishwasher to clean if needed. However, some people may prefer ceramic or porcelain instead since these materials don’t break as easily.
Answer: Yes, despite espresso cups being rather petite, they do have saucers. In some cases, they will come in sets, and in that case, they may come with saucers to match.
Answer: The standard handle is a simple, round one (and sometimes slightly curved). However, these can be difficult to grip, particularly for people with larger hands. This is why some people prefer cups with long handles so there’s more room to hold on to them. The shape of the cup itself will have an impact on this.
Answer: Double-walled espresso cups are used to maintain the temperature of your beverage and avoid burning your hands.
Answer: No, you can’t. Espresso shot glasses are specially designed for espresso shots and have a smaller volume than regular ones. You may not be able to fit enough coffee in them if they’re too large, which means that the taste of your drink won’t be perfect either.
Answer: An espresso shot is a small amount of black coffee, around 15-30ml. It’s an incredibly strong and concentrated coffee and can either be drunk on its own, mixed with milk, or diluted with water to create other delicious coffee drinks.
Answer: Espresso cups usually cost between $15 and $30 for a set. However, this depends on the set and the material, and some high-end sets will cost more than this.
Answer: On average, an espresso cup can last several years. However, it also depends on how you clean and stores them – so pay attention to that if you’re looking for a long-lasting set of cups.
Conclusion
An espresso cup should be strong, it should be large enough to hold a shot of coffee, and it should be easy to clean. Many espresso cups are made from porcelain or glass which means that they will not rust – nor will they react with the hot water in your beverage.
If you are looking for a set of espresso cups that will last the test of time and come in at an affordable price point, then some of these products might be exactly what you need. However, overall, we prefer the Fellow Monty Latte Art Cups and the Zenco Living Espresso Cups with Large Handle because of the overall quality of these products. We also love their design and think they will suit a range of styles and kitchen counters.
We hope this article has been helpful and given you some insight into espresso cups so that next time when it comes to choosing one, you will know what to look for next time you’re espresso cup shopping. Happy sipping!
