Americano Recipe
Make Americano 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 and water
Optional additions
Method
Espresso and water
Heat water
Bring fresh water to a near-boil, then let it sit 15–30 seconds so temperature falls into the 85–95°C (185–203°F) range. Measure about 6 fl oz (approx. 180 ml) and keep hot.
Prepare espresso
Grind coffee to a fine espresso grind and dose for a double shot (roughly 18–20 g depending on your machine). Tamp evenly and pull a double shot of espresso (about 2 shots, ~60 ml) directly into a preheated 8–10 fl oz cup or glass.
Combine
Pour the hot water into the cup first or after the espresso depending on preference: traditional Americanos are made by pouring hot water over the espresso (espresso first then water) or by adding espresso to hot water (caffè americano). For a classic Americano, add the 2 shots of espresso into the cup, then slowly pour the 6 fl oz hot water over the espresso to preserve crema and integrate flavors.
Optional additions
Sweeten or lighten to taste: stir in sugar or 1 tsp simple syrup if you like it sweet. Add milk or cream (about 1 tbsp) if you prefer a creamier texture. Taste and adjust: add more hot water for a milder cup or another 1 tsp sugar/more milk if desired.