Espresso Decafeine Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Turn on the espresso machine and allow it to reach operating temperature (steam ready and group head stable), about 15–25 minutes depending on machine. Flush the group head briefly (1–2 seconds) to stabilize temperature.

Weigh and grind beans

Weigh 30 g (0.03 kg) of decaffeinated espresso beans. Grind to a fine espresso grind (similar to table salt). Adjust grind so that extraction time will be around 25–30 seconds for a 30–40 ml yield (single/short double).

Dose and distribute

Place the ground coffee into a clean portafilter basket. Distribute grounds evenly using the distributor or finger, then tamp firmly and level with about 15–20 kg of pressure to create an even puck.

Brew

Lock the portafilter into the group head. Start the shot and time the extraction. Aim to extract 30–40 ml of espresso in 25–30 seconds for a concentrated ristretto/short double style. If you prefer a longer shot, adjust grind slightly coarser to reach 30–35 seconds for ~40–50 ml. Stop the shot at the target volume/time.

Serve straight

Pour the espresso into a pre-warmed demitasse cup. Taste and adjust next shots as needed (grind, dose, tamp). If desired, add 1 tsp sugar or simple syrup to taste and stir gently.

Steam milk (for cappuccino or latte)

If making a milk-based beverage, pour 120 ml whole milk (or milk of choice) into a chilled metal pitcher. Purge the steam wand for a second, then submerge the tip just below the surface and steam to create microfoam. Stretch milk slightly to incorporate air for about 5–8 seconds, then texturize until the pitcher feels around 55–65°C (130–150°F). Aim for velvety microfoam, about 30–50 ml foam for cappuccino or less for latte.

Combine and garnish

After pulling the decaf espresso, pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back foam for a latte or spooning foam on top for a cappuccino. Finish with a light dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon (~1 tsp) if desired.

Adjust sweetness

If sweetening, add sugar or 1 tsp simple syrup to the espresso before adding milk so it dissolves evenly. Stir gently and serve immediately.

Purge the steam wand and wipe it clean with a damp cloth immediately after steaming. Knock out the used coffee puck, rinse and dry the portafilter, and backflush the group head per machine guidelines at the end of service. Clean grinder hopper and wipe down surfaces.