Coffee is a universal beverage enjoyed in countless ways across different cultures. From rich espresso shots in Italy to sweet, spiced brews in Morocco, every country brings its own twist to coffee preparation. Exploring international coffee drinks at home is a fantastic way to experience global flavors without leaving your kitchen. Whether you prefer strong and bold brews or creamy, dessert-like concoctions, there’s something for everyone. This guide will take you on a journey through some of the most popular coffee drinks from around the world and show you how to make them yourself.
1. Italian Espresso – Italy
Why it’s iconic: Italy is the birthplace of espresso, a concentrated coffee shot that forms the base for many coffee drinks. Italians typically enjoy their espresso quickly while standing at a café counter.
Flavor profile: Bold, rich, and slightly bitter with a creamy layer of crema on top.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- Freshly ground espresso beans
- Water
Instructions:
- Use an espresso machine or a stovetop Moka pot.
- For espresso machines: Brew a 1-ounce shot using finely ground coffee and 9 bars of pressure.
- For Moka pots: Fill the bottom chamber with water, add coffee to the filter basket, and brew over medium heat.
- Serve in a small demitasse cup and enjoy plain or with a hint of sugar.
Tip: Use high-quality beans for the best flavor.
2. Café au Lait – France
Why it’s beloved: In France, mornings often begin with a café au lait, which pairs strong coffee with steamed milk. Unlike a latte, which uses espresso, this drink uses brewed coffee, making it easy to prepare at home.
Flavor profile: Smooth, mild, and creamy with balanced coffee and milk flavors.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee
- ½ cup steamed milk
Instructions:
- Brew a strong cup of coffee using a French press or drip machine.
- Heat and froth the milk until it becomes warm and slightly foamy.
- Pour equal parts coffee and steamed milk into a large cup.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top.
Tip: Use whole milk for a richer texture or plant-based alternatives for a lighter version.
3. Café de Olla – Mexico
Why it’s special: This traditional Mexican coffee is brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), giving it a warm, spiced flavor perfect for chilly mornings.
Flavor profile: Sweet, spiced, and aromatic with a hint of molasses.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups water
- 2 tablespoons ground coffee
- 1 small piece of cinnamon stick
- 1-2 tablespoons piloncillo or brown sugar
Instructions:
- Boil water with the cinnamon and piloncillo until the sugar dissolves.
- Add ground coffee, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Strain the coffee into a mug and enjoy.
Tip: Use a traditional clay pot (olla) for an authentic taste, but a saucepan works well too.
4. Flat White – Australia & New Zealand
Why it’s popular: Originating from Australia and New Zealand, the flat white combines a double shot of espresso with velvety steamed milk, offering a stronger coffee flavor than a latte.
Flavor profile: Smooth, bold espresso taste with a creamy milk texture.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso
- 4-6 ounces of steamed milk
Instructions:
- Brew a double shot of espresso.
- Steam milk until it forms fine microfoam without large bubbles.
- Pour the milk over the espresso, creating a smooth, even layer.
Tip: Use whole milk for the best microfoam texture.
5. Café Cubano – Cuba
Why it’s unique: Café Cubano is a sweetened espresso shot traditionally made using a Moka pot and raw sugar whipped into the coffee, creating a thick, sweet crema.
Flavor profile: Strong, sweet, and bold with a syrupy texture.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons finely ground dark roast coffee
- 1 tablespoon raw sugar (turbinado or demerara)
- Water (for Moka pot)
Instructions:
- Brew espresso using a Moka pot.
- Place the sugar in a small cup and add a few drops of the brewed coffee.
- Whisk until it forms a creamy paste.
- Pour the rest of the coffee over the sugar mixture and stir gently.
Tip: Enjoy it in a small cup, often served after meals in Cuban culture.
6. Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá) – Vietnam
Why it’s refreshing: This drink features strong Vietnamese coffee brewed over sweetened condensed milk and served over ice, offering a delicious balance of bitterness and sweetness.
Flavor profile: Rich, sweet, and slightly chocolatey with a refreshing cold finish.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons coarse ground Vietnamese coffee (e.g., Trung Nguyên)
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- Hot water
- Ice
Instructions:
- Add condensed milk to a glass.
- Place a Vietnamese phin filter over the glass and add coffee grounds.
- Pour a small amount of hot water to bloom the coffee, then fill the filter.
- Let it drip slowly for about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir the coffee and milk, then pour over ice.
Tip: If you don’t have a phin filter, use a French press for similar results.
7. Greek Frappé – Greece
Why it’s a summer favorite: Invented in Greece, this frothy iced coffee uses instant coffee and is perfect for hot days.
Flavor profile: Frothy, slightly bitter, and refreshing with optional sweetness.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee
- 2-3 ounces cold water
- Sugar (optional)
- Milk (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Combine instant coffee, sugar (if desired), and cold water in a shaker or jar.
- Shake vigorously until a thick foam forms.
- Pour into a glass over ice and add more water or milk as desired.
Tip: Use a handheld frother for quicker preparation.
8. Turkish Coffee – Turkey
Why it’s traditional: Turkish coffee is known for its thick texture and strong flavor, often enjoyed slowly with a side of sweets.
Flavor profile: Strong, rich, and sometimes spiced with cardamom.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon finely ground Turkish coffee
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Pinch of cardamom (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a cezve (Turkish coffee pot).
- Stir and heat over low heat until foam forms.
- Remove before boiling, pour into a small cup, and let grounds settle.
Tip: Don’t stir after pouring—drink slowly to avoid sediment.
9. Moroccan Spiced Coffee – Morocco
Why it’s aromatic: Infused with warm spices, Moroccan coffee offers a unique sensory experience.
Flavor profile: Earthy, spiced, and slightly sweet with notes of cinnamon and cardamom.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups brewed coffee
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Sugar to taste
Instructions:
- Brew coffee using your preferred method.
- Stir in the spices and sugar while the coffee is hot.
- Pour into a mug and enjoy the warming flavors.
Tip: Pair with pastries for an authentic experience.
10. Café Bombón – Spain
Why it’s indulgent: Café Bombón layers espresso over sweetened condensed milk, creating a visually stunning and deliciously sweet drink.
Flavor profile: Rich, sweet, and dessert-like with a balanced bitterness.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 ounce sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
- Pour condensed milk into a small glass.
- Slowly pour the espresso over the back of a spoon to create distinct layers.
- Stir before drinking or enjoy the layered effect.
Tip: Serve in a clear glass to showcase the beautiful layers.
Tips for Making International Coffee Drinks at Home
- Use fresh, high-quality coffee: The better the beans, the better your drink.
- Invest in essential tools: A French press, Moka pot, and milk frother are versatile tools for various drinks.
- Experiment with local variations: Feel free to adjust sweetness, spices, and milk types to your preference.
- Take your time: Many traditional coffee drinks are meant to be enjoyed slowly.
Final Thoughts: Travel the World Through Coffee
Exploring global coffee traditions is a delightful way to experience different cultures from the comfort of your home. Each country’s approach to coffee tells a story about its history, climate, and culinary preferences. Whether you’re sipping a sweet Vietnamese iced coffee or savoring the rich intensity of Turkish brew, making these drinks at home lets you embark on a flavorful journey. So gather your ingredients, brew with intention, and enjoy a taste of the world—one cup at a time.