Inside the Lab
What is an Americano?
The Americano is one of the simplest yet most satisfying espresso-based drinks. Made by combining espresso with hot water, it delivers the rich nuance of espresso in a milder, more approachable form. Typically, it consists of one or two espresso shots pulled into a cup, then diluted with 120–180 ml of hot water.
You can try it yourself with one of our espressos, or enjoy it freshly brewed at one of our cafés across Europe.
You can try it yourself with one of our espressos, or enjoy it freshly brewed at one of our cafés across Europe.
Where does the Americano come from?
The Americano is believed to have originated during World War II, when American soldiers stationed in Italy found the local espresso too strong. By diluting it with hot water, they recreated the lighter-bodied drip coffee they were used to back home.
Although the exact timeline is unclear, the term “Caffè Americano” gained popularity in the 1950s and has been a café menu staple ever since.
Although the exact timeline is unclear, the term “Caffè Americano” gained popularity in the 1950s and has been a café menu staple ever since.
Taste and texture
An Americano brings out the complexity of espresso — think chocolate, nutty, or caramel notes — while softening the intensity. The added water stretches the espresso without masking its character.
Unlike drinks like the Flat White, the Americano has no milk and no foam. It’s typically served black, sometimes with a delicate layer of crema on top.
If you’re looking for bold coffee flavour without the heaviness of milk-based drinks, the Americano hits the sweet spot.
Unlike drinks like the Flat White, the Americano has no milk and no foam. It’s typically served black, sometimes with a delicate layer of crema on top.
If you’re looking for bold coffee flavour without the heaviness of milk-based drinks, the Americano hits the sweet spot.
Why choose an Americano?
There’s something beautifully straightforward about an Americano. It’s ideal when you want:
– A lighter, longer coffee without milk
– To enjoy espresso flavour over time
– A hot or iced coffee that’s easy to make at home
Bonus: If you prefer your coffee cold, try making an Iced Americano by using chilled water and serving over ice – perfect for warmer days.
– A lighter, longer coffee without milk
– To enjoy espresso flavour over time
– A hot or iced coffee that’s easy to make at home
Bonus: If you prefer your coffee cold, try making an Iced Americano by using chilled water and serving over ice – perfect for warmer days.
How to make an Americano at home
Making an Americano at home is refreshingly simple. Here’s how to get it right:
What you’ll need:
– 18–20 g freshly ground espresso beans
– 120–180 ml hot water (90–96 °C)
– Espresso machine or AeroPress
– A cup or mug
Steps:
Brew a single or double espresso.
Heat water to just under boiling.
Pour hot water into your cup first.
Slowly pour the espresso over the hot water.
Pro tip: Use a quality espresso like our Campo das Vertentes to bring out rich, smooth flavour without bitterness.
Whether you enjoy it at home or at one of our cafés, the Americano is a timeless drink that proves simplicity can be delicious. Explore our full range of coffee products or stop by for a visit – we’ll have your cup ready.
What you’ll need:
– 18–20 g freshly ground espresso beans
– 120–180 ml hot water (90–96 °C)
– Espresso machine or AeroPress
– A cup or mug
Steps:
Brew a single or double espresso.
Heat water to just under boiling.
Pour hot water into your cup first.
Slowly pour the espresso over the hot water.
Pro tip: Use a quality espresso like our Campo das Vertentes to bring out rich, smooth flavour without bitterness.
Whether you enjoy it at home or at one of our cafés, the Americano is a timeless drink that proves simplicity can be delicious. Explore our full range of coffee products or stop by for a visit – we’ll have your cup ready.
Published
9 July 2025
Updated
16 September 2025
Jonas
Coffee man
Copenhagen Coffee Lab