Are you a coffee lover looking to take your beverage game to the next level? Look no further! Espresso is a rich and bold addition to any drink, and when used in creative ways, can elevate even the simplest of recipes into something truly special. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious espresso recipes that you can easily make at home, from classic shots to decadent desserts and even some surprising savory dishes.
From morning pick-me-ups to after-dinner indulgences, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for all things coffee. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or just discovering the joys of espresso, we’ve got something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering treats.
Classic Espresso Shot
Get your morning started with a rich and bold espresso shot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of finely ground espresso beans (about 14 grams)
– Water for brewing (around 6 ounces)
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing your espresso machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Place the ground coffee into the machine’s filter basket or portafilter.
3. Close the machine and ensure it is securely locked.
4. Turn on the machine and let it brew for around 25-30 seconds, depending on the type of machine you’re using.
5. Once the shot is complete, remove it from the machine and pour into a cup.
Cooking Time: Around 1 minute (including setup time)
Tips:
– Use high-quality espresso beans for the best flavor.
– Adjust the grind size to suit your machine’s preferences.
– Experiment with different roast levels to find your perfect cup.
Vanilla Latte with Espresso
This recipe combines the bold flavors of espresso with the sweetness of vanilla syrup, topped with a velvety milk foam. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso
– 2% milk, warmed
– Vanilla syrup (or extract)
– Whipped cream and cinnamon, optional
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of espresso into a cup.
2. Warm the milk by heating it in the microwave or on the stovetop until steaming hot.
3. Add 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla syrup (or extract) to the warmed milk and whisk until combined.
4. Pour the vanilla-flavored milk into the cup with the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon.
5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: None!
Iced Caramel Espresso
Beat the heat with this sweet and rich iced coffee drink. Perfect for warm days, this caramel espresso is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed espresso or strong coffee
– 1 cup of milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon of caramel syrup
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream and caramel sauce for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the espresso or make a strong cup of coffee.
2. In a large glass, combine the brewed coffee, milk, and caramel syrup. Stir until well combined.
3. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
4. Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Espresso Martini Cocktail
This refreshing cocktail combines the bold flavors of espresso and vodka with a hint of sweetness, making it perfect for a night out or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce Kahlúa liqueur
– 1/2 ounce freshly brewed espresso
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Ice
– Coffee beans or grinds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Kahlúa liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and garnish with coffee beans or grinds.
Cooking Time: None required! Just shake and serve.
Affogato with Espresso
Affogato is a classic Italian dessert that combines the richness of espresso with the creaminess of vanilla ice cream. This simple yet decadent treat is perfect for coffee lovers and anyone looking to elevate their dessert game.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 ounce)
– Optional: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Place the scoop of vanilla ice cream in a chilled glass or cup.
2. Pour the shot of espresso directly over the ice cream.
3. Allow the espresso to flow and mix with the ice cream, creating a beautiful swirl pattern.
4. Serve immediately, garnishing with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in just minutes.
Espresso Macchiato
Start your day with a rich and bold espresso macchiato, a classic Italian drink that combines the perfect balance of strong coffee and creamy milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong espresso (about 1 ounce each)
– 1 tablespoon of frothed milk
– Optional: sugar or sweetener to taste
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of espresso into a cup.
2. Froth the milk using an espresso machine or a whisk until it becomes creamy and thick.
3. Hold back the foam with a spoon, if desired.
4. Pour the frothed milk over the espresso, creating a layered effect.
5. If desired, add sugar or sweetener to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Espresso brewing time: 1-2 minutes
– Frothing milk time: 1-2 minutes
Total Time: 3-4 minutes
Espresso Con Panna
A classic Italian dessert that combines rich espresso with a dollop of whipped cream, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso or 2 shots of espresso
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Brew the espresso and pour into a large cup.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
3. Add the granulated sugar and pinch of salt to the whipped cream. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Dollop the whipped cream on top of the espresso, creating a layered effect.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes brewing time)
Mocha Espresso Smoothie
Elevate your morning routine with this rich and decadent mocha espresso smoothie. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout treat, this recipe combines the bold flavors of espresso and chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 cup frozen coffee ice cubes
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine espresso, frozen coffee ice cubes, almond milk, and butter.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add instant coffee powder, cocoa powder, and sugar. Blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or coffee intensity to your liking.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these rich and decadent Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies, infused with the deep flavors of espresso and dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and espresso powder.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Espresso Brownies
Rich and fudgy brownies infused with the deep flavor of espresso, perfect for coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup instant espresso powder
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in eggs one at a time, then add cocoa powder and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and espresso powder. Add to the chocolate mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour into prepared pan and smooth top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
6. Let cool completely in pan before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Espresso Tiramisu
Take your taste buds on a journey to Italy with this rich and creamy Espresso Tiramisu. Layers of ladyfingers soaked in espresso and liqueur, paired with a velvety mascarpone cheese mixture, will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 8 ounces heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine espresso and sugar; stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. To assemble, place a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 to create multiple layers, finishing with a layer of mascarpone on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including chilling time)
Espresso Panna Cotta
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy Espresso Panna Cotta, infused with the deep flavor of espresso.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso
– Unflavored gelatin (1 envelope, or 0.25 oz)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and add the espresso, vanilla extract, and bloomed gelatin. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including preparation)
Espresso Granita
A refreshing Italian dessert that combines the richness of espresso with the lightness of granita.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine espresso and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sugar until dissolved.
3. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature.
4. Pour mixture into a shallow metal pan or 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until desired consistency is reached (should be slushy but still slightly firm).
6. Just before serving, whip heavy cream and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. Spoon whipped cream over granita.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Espresso Hot Chocolate
Elevate your hot chocolate game with the bold flavors of espresso, creating a drink that’s perfect for coffee lovers and sweet-tooths alike. This recipe combines the best of both worlds in a rich and creamy concoction.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, espresso powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the hot chocolate reaches your desired temperature.
5. Remove from heat and pour into mugs. If desired, top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Espresso Milkshake
Get ready to rev up your day with a rich and creamy espresso milkshake that combines the bold flavors of Italy’s national coffee drink with the smoothness of vanilla ice cream. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat, this indulgent treat is sure to satisfy any coffee lover.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong espresso
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong espresso.
2. In a blender, combine the espresso, vanilla ice cream, milk, cocoa powder, and sugar. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Espresso Pancakes
Start your day with a boost of energy and flavor by combining the richness of espresso with the fluffiness of pancakes. This recipe yields a stack of moist, chocolatey treats that will satisfy your morning cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 2 shots of espresso (or strong brewed coffee)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a non-stick skillet or griddle.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, espresso, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth.
5. Cook the batter in the skillet or griddle for 2-3 minutes, flipping when bubbles appear on the surface.
6. Serve warm, dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Espresso Glazed Donuts
Elevate your donut game with this intense espresso glaze, adding a deep and rich flavor to these sweet treats. Perfect for coffee lovers and donut enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup espresso glaze (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Espresso Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons strong brewed espresso
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. Whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add melted butter, egg, and mix until smooth.
3. Pipe donut mixture into rings and fry for 1-2 minutes on each side.
4. Drain donuts and let cool.
5. Dip cooled donuts in espresso glaze, allowing excess to drip off.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Espresso BBQ Sauce
Elevate your BBQ game with this rich and aromatic Espresso BBQ Sauce, perfect for slathering on meats, vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, espresso powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get your caffeine fix at home with these 18 delicious espresso recipes! From classic shots to decadent desserts, we’ve got you covered. Learn how to make a Vanilla Latte with Espresso, Iced Caramel Espresso, and even an Espresso Martini Cocktail. Treat yourself to Affogato with Espresso or indulge in sweet treats like Espresso Macchiato, Espresso Brownies, and Espresso Tiramisu. There’s something for every coffee lover on this list, from breakfast treats like Espresso Pancakes and Espresso Glazed Donuts to unique drinks like Espresso Granita and Espresso Hot Chocolate. So go ahead, get creative, and brew up some fun!
