If you are a coffee lover, there is nothing better than the smell of fresh-brewed coffee wafting through the house first thing in the morning. Real connoisseurs of the beverage know that coffee and espresso aren’t just for breakfast, and you don’t have to go to a cafe to get it.
Having an espresso machine at home is a convenient way to produce specialty coffee drinks at your convenience. Recipes for mochas, breves, and a recipe Absolut espresso martini will have you serving up liquid treats all day long.
Select an Espresso Machine
There are many home machines on the market. Prices vary, but you can find a good machine under $500 and quite a few under $200. Depending on the unit, the milk steaming wand may be attached. If not, you will also need a milk steamer and frother. Do your research on what type of machine is best for you. There are semi-automatics, super-automatics, and manuals, and it can all depend on how much of a barista you want to be. As well, some machines come with a coffee grinder, but if not, add that to your shopping list.
Once you get the hang of the machine and how to properly froth milk, you can fix many popular specialty drinks. Enjoy them hot or cold with your favorite cream or non-dairy product. You can find a handful of flavored syrups in the coffee aisle at your local grocery. If you enjoy flavors other than vanilla, hazelnut, and caramel, go online to order unique syrups that you would see in coffee shops like lavender, blueberry, and seasonal favorites. Caramel and chocolate sauces are fun to have on hand as well to create extra touches to your drinks.
Create Your Coffee Cafe Area
Now that you have your espresso machine, syrups, espresso cups, and coffee mugs, you can set up a coffee cart or special area in your home where everything you need is altogether. Your at-home cafe is open for business, and you are on your way to becoming your own barista. Create a beverage menu with the following:
- Cappuccino – A foamier beverage topped with espresso
- Latte – Steamed milk finished with light foam and espresso
- Americano – Espresso and water
- Macchiato – An espresso with a dash of milk
- Breve – Steamed half-and-half with a shot of espresso
Serve Up Coffee Throughout the Day
Any of the above drinks are great first thing in the morning, but when you don’t have time to brew a pot of coffee or prepare a specialty beverage before hitting the door, pull a shot of espresso. Without the added creams and syrups, you savor the sweet espresso taste.
When you need that mid-afternoon break and energizer, make a refreshing iced latte. Start with a half glass of ice, pour in your syrup, and then add your cold milk or non-dairy product leaving approximately 1/2 inch remaining to the top of your glass. Finish with your espresso shot and enjoy. For a special treat, add whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce on top.
After a long day, you deserve to sit back and relax. Pull an espresso for a martini or make an Irish coffee for dessert. Of course, it is even better topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Creating an at-home coffee cafe is a daily treat for you and your family that appreciates the smooth taste of coffee and espresso and enjoys creating specialty java beverages. With practice, you can quickly become an experienced barista and have fun adding new recipes to your menu board.