[Tips]A Practical Guide to Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines: Ingredients and Ratios for Mainstream Coffee Drinks

The Core Foundation: Espresso

A consistently high-quality espresso is the base for all drinks.

Standard Parameters:

• Coffee Dose: 18-20g (using a double basket)
• Yield: 36-40g (liquid weight)
• Extraction Time: 25-30 seconds
• Key Goal: Achieve an espresso shot topped with a rich, golden-brown crema.

1. Milk-Based Coffee Series

This category consists of espresso combined with steamed milk and foam in varying ratios and textures.

1.1 Latte

Ingredients & Ratio: 1 part espresso + 1.5-2 parts steamed milk + approximately 1cm of light microfoam.

Method:

1. Extract one shot of espresso into a cup.

2. Steam whole milk to create a silky texture with microfoam, reaching about 65°C.

3. Slowly pour the steamed milk into the espresso, allowing the foam to settle on top.

Characteristics: Smooth mouthfeel, pronounced milk flavor, relatively mellow coffee taste.

1.2 Cappuccino

Ingredients & Ratio: 1 part espresso + equal parts steamed milk + equal parts thick foam (traditionally a 1:1:1 ratio).

Method:

1. Extract one shot of espresso into a smaller cappuccino cup (approx. 180ml).

2. Steam milk to a slightly lower temperature (approx. 60°C), creating a thicker, more voluminous foam.

3. Pour the steamed milk to mix with the coffee, then spoon the thick foam on top to create a distinct dome.

Characteristics: Rich texture, simultaneously experiencing the strength of the coffee, the sweetness of the milk, and the thick foam.

1.3 Flat White

Ingredients & Ratio: 1 shot of espresso (or a double Ristretto) + approximately 4-5 times the amount of velvety milk, with a very thin layer of microfoam.

Method:

1. Extract one shot of Ristretto (same coffee dose, yield reduced to approx. 20g) for a more concentrated coffee flavor.

2. Steam milk to create an ultra-smooth, velvety texture with almost no visible foam (approx. 65°C).

3. Combine the milk and coffee thoroughly, resulting in a flat, glossy surface.

Characteristics: Most pronounced coffee flavor, exceptionally smooth and creamy texture.

1.4 Macchiato

Ingredients & Ratio: 1 shot of espresso + 1 small spoonful (approx. 1-2 teaspoons) of milk foam.

Method: Extract one shot of espresso directly, then "mark" or "dot" the crema with a spoonful of dense milk foam.

Characteristics: Minimal milk added, only slightly tempering the intense espresso with foam.

2. Black Coffee & Iced Coffee Series

2.1 Americano

Ingredients & Ratio: 1 shot of espresso + approximately 150-200ml of hot water.

Method: Pour hot water into the cup first, then extract the espresso shot on top to help preserve some crema.

Characteristics: Clean and refreshing, showcasing the inherent flavor profile of the coffee beans.

2.2 Iced Americano

Ingredients & Ratio: 1 shot of espresso + ample ice cubes + approximately 120-150ml of cold water.

Method: Fill a glass with ice, add cold water, and finally pour the hot espresso shot over the ice.

Characteristics: Refreshing and cool, the contact between hot coffee and ice releases a distinct aroma.

3. Specialty & Flavored Drinks Series

3.1 Mocha

Ingredients & Ratio: 15ml chocolate sauce + 1 shot of espresso + Latte amount of steamed milk + optional whipped cream.

Method:

1. Add chocolate sauce to the bottom of the cup, pour in hot espresso and stir until combined.

2. Add steamed milk prepared as for a Latte.

3. Optionally top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.

Characteristics: Sweet with chocolate notes, a combination of coffee and hot chocolate.

3.2 Irish Coffee

Ingredients & Ratio: 30ml Irish whiskey + 1 teaspoon brown sugar + 1 shot of dark roast espresso or hot brewed coffee + a layer of lightly whipped cream.

Method:

1. Preheat a heat-resistant Irish coffee glass or stemmed glass with hot water.

2. Add whiskey and brown sugar. Optionally, flame or gently heat while stirring until sugar dissolves and some alcohol evaporates.

3. Pour hot coffee into the glass and mix with the whiskey-sugar solution.

4. Finally, using the back of a spoon, gently float the cold whipped cream on top to create a distinct layer.

Characteristics: A classic hot coffee cocktail, blending the aroma of whiskey, the bitterness of coffee, and the smoothness of cream for a complex taste.

3.3 Affogato

Ingredients & Ratio: 1-2 shots of espresso + 1 large scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Method: Pour the hot espresso directly over the scoop of ice cream and serve immediately.

Characteristics: A dessert, featuring a contrast of hot and cold, bitter and sweet.

We hope this clear guide helps you systematically master the essentials of making different coffee drinks. Further discussion on specific techniques for any drink is welcome