How to Make an Americano at Home
Want something bold but not as full-on as an espresso? That’s where the Americano comes in. It's smooth, simple, and easy to make at home with just a few basics - no need for fancy gear- just good coffee, hot water, and a bit of know-how.
What is an Americano?
An Americano is just a shot of espresso topped up with hot water. That’s it. You get the depth of espresso, but with a longer, lighter finish. It’s not as intense and a great way to enjoy speciality beans without blowing your head off.
If you want to know what the difference between an Americano and an Espresso Click Here 👈
Espresso vs Americano - same base, different finish
What You’ll Need
- Fresh coffee beans – preferably medium or dark roast
- Espresso machine – or a Moka pot / AeroPress if that’s what you’ve got
- Kettle – for boiling water
- Grinder – burr grinder is best
- A mug – something around 6–8oz
How to Make an Americano
1. Pull your espresso
Grind 18g of beans fine (like table salt), tamp it down, and pull a double shot. You want about 60ml of espresso.
2. Heat your water
Boil your kettle, then let it sit for 30 seconds. You’re aiming for about 70-75°C. Not boiling, not tepid-somewhere in the Goldilocks zone.
3. Combine
Pour your espresso into a mug. Top it up with around 120ml of hot water. Want it stronger? Add less water. Weaker? More.
The Americano pour - espresso first, then water for that smooth finish
Which Way Round?
There are two schools of thought:
- Americano: espresso first, then water
- Long black: water first, then espresso (keeps the crema)
Try both. Pick your team.
☕ Brewing Tip
Filtered water makes a noticeable difference. If your tap water’s a bit iffy, use a kettle with a built-in filter or bottled spring water.
Try It With Our Beans
If you're making an Americano at home, you want beans that shine through dilution. Our Burundi Red Bourbon or Dulima both hold their own, especially in a long cup.
Everything you need to make a proper Americano at home
Want to know more about espressos? Click Here 👈
Americano FAQs
What’s the espresso to water ratio in an Americano?
It’s usually 1 part espresso to 2 parts water. So if you pull a double shot (about 60ml), top it up with around 120ml of hot water. But honestly, adjust it to taste. Like it bolder? Use less water.
Does an Americano have more caffeine than a regular coffee?
It depends. A double espresso in an Americano has about 120–140mg of caffeine, roughly the same or slightly more than a standard filter coffee. The flavour’s punchier, but the caffeine isn’t necessarily higher.
Should you add water or espresso first?
If you want more crema, pour espresso over water (like a long black). Want a smoother cup? Do it the classic Americano way- espresso first, water second. It’s all down to preference.
Can I make an Americano without an espresso machine?
Yep. Use a Moka pot or AeroPress to get close to espresso strength. Just aim for a strong base, then add hot water. It won’t be exactly the same, but close enough for a solid brew at home.
