Top 5 Coffee Drinks
Where Does Coffee Come From?
All coffee whether served hot or cold starts with the Coffea flowering shrub or tree that creates seeds or also called coffee beans. Coffee beans are harvested from the inside of the seeds produced by the fruit of the coffee shrub or tree. The fruit is red or purple in color and is called "cherries" although they resemble the appearance of a berry. The coffee shrub or tree is native to tropical and southern areas of Africa and Asia. The coffee shrub or tree, along with the cherries, are cultivated and exported in over 70 countries. Coffee beans must have the shell removed, be cleaned and dried, and then roasted to necessary roasting levels before consumption. Darker colored roasted coffee beans have been roasted for a longer time for a stronger coffee flavor. Coffee is one of the most popular beverages that is consumed worldwide, among water, beer, and tea. Coffee is available with or without caffeine, along with many other choices of coffee types to choose from. Coffee also has many different additives, like sweeteners and syrups, that can be included for added flavoring.
Dark, Med, and Light Roasted Coffee Beans
Coffee Facts
Over 86% of Americans over the age of 18 consume coffee daily.
Consuming 1-2 cups of coffee daily, with little to no sweetener, is healthy for the protection from certain cancers and diseases, but coffee also contains high amounts of antioxidants.
People in New York consume almost 7 times more coffee than other cities in the United States.
Blending milk with coffee started during the 1600's.
Espresso is regulated by the Italian government because it is considered an essential part of their daily life.
Hawaii is the only state that commercially grows coffee.
Since coffee beans are actually the pit of a berry, they can be considered a fruit, a good fruit.
Brewed espresso contains 2.5% fat and brewed coffee contains 0.6% fat.
Espresso
What is espresso? Both a coffee beverage and a unique brewing method! This type of coffee beverage is a coffee bean derivative that contains high caffeine amounts and is produced by a brewing process through an espresso machine or an espresso maker. Espresso may be consumed with or without sweeteners, and can also be added to coffee drinks for a more bold, intense, and robust flavor with the added boost.
The brewing method for creating espresso is as follows:
- A small amount of hot water under high pressure is forced through finely grounded coffee beans.
- This process separates the oils from the remnants.
- The oil produced in the espresso, which is dark red, syrupy, and thick.
- A creme foam is formed along the top of the espresso upon creation.
Espresso can be consumed by itself, with or without sweeteners, but is mainly added to coffee drinks for a more robust flavor. When the barista (which is Italian for bartender who serves coffee drinks) is preparing a coffee drink, they may inquire about how many shots which is in reference to espresso shots to be contained in the custom made coffee drink.
How do you like your coffee?
What is your preference?
The Top 5 Coffee Drinks
This is a list compiled of the top 5 coffee drinks of all time. These best coffee drinks may be served steamy hot and ice cold, with a sweet flavor and a creamy texture. These best coffee drinks may be made at home any time or ordered while out. I have found that many people enjoy coffee in general, and for many different reasons, but most people like their coffee to be sweet and light in color. Some of these popular coffee drinks can have espresso added for an extra kick and an enhanced coffee flavor. This list of coffee drinks may also have toppings added for a more sweet and smooth taste, like whipped cream or flavored syrups.
1. A Simple Coffee.
This is the number one top coffee drink because it is the healthiest and the most basic while having much popularity with many different variations to choose from. Brewed coffee that is blended with simple ingredients can be served hot or poured over ice cubes for a cold coffee drink. Since coffee alone provides health benefits, reducing the amount of sugar and additives being added will keep this coffee drink the healthiest. Simple coffee can some times be the cure for migraines and headaches, hangovers, bad moods, and even for constipation. Coffee prepared and served this way is number one because it is the most healthy coffee drink.
2. Mocha Coffee.
This second top coffee drink is number two because it is coffee mixed with chocolate. This number two top coffee is another way to enjoy chocolate and can also be served hot or cold. A mixed mocha coffee is prepared by blending regular and white chocolate with brewed coffee. Espresso may also be added to this coffee drink for a more intense flavor of coffee over the mixed mocha. This number two top coffee drink is another great way to enjoy chocolate and even more often! The type of chocolate to be used should only be chocolate powder or syrup for proper flavoring. Be sure to mix well and enjoy!
3. Flat White.
This third drink is another great coffee drink that can be served either hot or cold. This number three top coffee beverage contains espresso and is made with two ristretto shots, combined with a thin layer of velvety steamed whole milk and finished with a latte art dot. A ristretto shot delivers a sweeter, more intense coffee flavor. Perfectly steamed milk into a creamy micro-foam and pour to allow the espresso to rise to the top of the beverage for a bold coffee flavor with a sweeter finish is what makes this so dreamy and creamy. There is no foam as compared to a cappuccino.
4. Iced Caramel Macchiato.
This fourth top coffee beverage contains coffee, espresso, and other sweeteners as well as sweet toppings for a creamy blend that can be served hot or cold. The macchiato is Italian and enjoyed by many people, some times daily. The macchiato has two different types: latte and Caffe. This top coffee drink is later on the list because there are high amounts of sugar and fat included, which deems it as not so healthy but still is on my list. This coffee drink may be prepared mainly with espresso so it also has high caffeine content. Try this special sauce:
Total Time 10 minutes Servings 1 Calories 178 kcal
Ingredients:
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons (1oz) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Coffee:
- 1 cup of your favorite strong black coffee very hot
- 1-3 teaspoons sugar*
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- Whipped cream optional
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add heavy cream, brown sugar, and salt. Stir well.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and allow to cook for 4 minutes, until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and mix in vanilla. Transfer to a mason jar with a lid for storage.
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Pour coffee ingredients one at a time slowly and cover with sauce.
5. Hot Vanilla Caramel Latte.
This coffee drink is known for its creaminess but certain additions can provide a seasonal winter feeling any time with its spices and thicker texture. This particular drink can include coffee, espresso, and milk with sugar/cream but also includes special spices for a new and creative way to enjoy this latte.
Coffee From Favorite Brands
© 2012 Cristale Adams