Americano (hot Or Iced) Recipe
Make Americano (hot Or Iced) Recipe in just 6m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Espresso & Water Base
Optional Additions
Method
Equipment & Prep
Gather equipment
Prepare a 8–12 oz (240–350 ml) cup or glass, espresso machine (or Moka/stovetop espresso), tamp, grinder, and a kettle for hot water or chilled water and ice for iced Americano.
Grind & dose
Grind 18 g of fresh coffee to an espresso-fine grind. Distribute and tamp evenly in the portafilter. Preheat the cup by rinsing with hot water (for hot) or chilling with ice briefly (for iced).
Pulling Espresso
Extract espresso
Lock the portafilter into the machine and start extraction. Pull a double shot of espresso (about 36–44 ml) targeting 25–30 seconds extraction time. Stop the shot when the yield is reached. If using a stovetop brewer, brew a strong concentrated brew and measure approximately 36–44 ml.
Check crema
Ensure the shot has a rich crema and balanced aroma. If extraction is under or over-extracted, adjust grind or dose for the next preparation.
Assembling Hot Americano
Preheat cup
If serving hot, pour out the hot water used to preheat the cup, leaving the cup warm.
Combine espresso and hot water
Pour the freshly pulled double espresso into the warmed cup. Immediately add 115 ml of hot water (about 180–85°C / 355–185°F depending on machine) — pour slowly to preserve crema if desired. Stir gently once to combine.
Optional finish (hot)
If desired, add 15 ml simple syrup for sweetness or 30 ml milk/cream for a creamier Americano. Garnish with a lemon twist if requested.
Assembling Iced Americano
Prep glass
Fill an iced serving glass with 6 ice cubes (about 115–170 g ice).
Combine espresso and cold water
Pour the double shot of hot espresso over the ice to rapidly cool it (this helps maintain aroma). Add 115 ml of cold water. Stir once or twice to mix and chill evenly.
Optional finish (iced)
If desired, add 15 ml simple syrup and stir to dissolve, or pour 30 ml milk/cream over the top for a lighter appearance. Garnish with a lemon twist on the rim if requested.
Service & Notes
Serve immediately. For a stronger Americano, reduce water by 15–30 ml. For a milder cup, increase water by 30–60 ml. Adjust ice volume for dilution preferences. Clean portafilter and wipe steam wand (if used) between drinks.