There aren't many things better than a cup of coffee, according to many people. One of life's simple pleasures, coffee has a lot to offer with each cup: from the inviting aroma that fills the kitchen as you pour it, to the first sip, where you can taste all the distinct flavours and notes, to the comforting aftertaste that lingers between drinks and gets you ready for the day. But did you know that there are distinct coffee cups made for each flavour of coffee? So much so that it can even affect how much you enjoy sipping your favourite coffee. We look at the different coffee cups that are appropriate for each sort of coffee, from material to size.
The Standard Mug: Approx. 350ml in size
Most of us have a specific cup at home that we use to sip our favourite coffee. We all have our favourite coffee cup in the cupboard, whether it is personalised, enormous, self-stirring, or one we've owned for years.
The Espresso cup: Approx. 60ml in size
The smallest of the coffee cups is an espresso cup, commonly referred to as a demitasse cup, which is French meaning half a cup. Despite its tiny size, the cup has a tendency to be smaller at the base and larger at the rim. The espresso cup shouldn't be too large as this might lead to the cream spreading out, becoming too thin, and fading rapidly. The temperature of the espresso is also impacted by the size of the coffee cup because it can rapidly get too cold from being exposed to too much air. As we all know, espresso is more than just a shot; it's an experience. Additionally, macchiatos are offered in espresso glasses.
The Cappuccino cup: Approx. 180ml in size
Compared to the typical cappuccino coffee cup, the Italian version is smaller. Additionally, the majority of cappuccino cups have a narrower base and a larger rim. The espresso shot stays more concentrated in the cappuccino cup's thin base for the same reasons as with the espresso cup. The ideal foam topping will also be possible with this cup's dome form. Cups for cappuccinos should have coordinating saucers. These mugs are also used to serve Americano coffee drinks.
The Flat white cup: Approx. 160ml in size
When done carefully, a flat white is served in a cup that resembles a tulip and is smaller in size and thinner at the rim than a cappuccino. The flat white cup's size ensures that the coffee flavour and its silky, smooth, and creamy texture are kept in the foreground.
The Bol: Approx. 160ml in size
A bol is a bowl-shaped coffee cup that is typically made of porcelain and is used to serve café au lait, a popular French coffee beverage. A bol should be held in both hands and consumed like soup if you're drinking café au lait from one.
Latte glasses: Approx. 220ml in size
In a bowl-shaped mug, similar to the one used for cappuccinos, lattes can also be served. This makes it simpler to add steamed milk to the espresso and possibly make latte art. The Italians, however, routinely and traditionally serve their lattes in tall latte mugs. It is commonly accepted that this is the case because it perfectly displays the layers of a latte. Baristas can also make the perfect amount of espresso, milk, and froth with the use of latte glasses.
The Irish coffee glass: Approx. 250ml in size
In contrast to a typical coffee cup, the Irish coffee glass is made of glass and has a short stem to elevate the beverage. While most are similar to heavy wine glasses, other variants have handles. Because the Irish coffee glass is translucent, the drinker can see the lovely layering of coffee and cream inside.