Espresso Shot

Smart Mix Score ●●○○○

ⓘ pours 1–2 shots

A bold, concentrated coffee brewed under pressure. The purest expression of the bean, with deep flavor, smooth crema, and just the right amount of intensity in every sip.

Flavor Profile Bold

Heavy-bodied with notes of roasted cocoa, dark caramel, and a smooth, golden créma finish.

Ingredients

• 18–20g finely ground espresso beans

• Filtered water

Instructions

1. Prep the machine – Preheat your espresso machine, portafilter, and cup for consistency.

2. Grind & dose – Grind fresh beans to a fine espresso consistency. Measure out 18–20g (for a double shot).

3. Tamp it down – Evenly distribute grounds in the portafilter and tamp with firm, level pressure.

4. Extract – Lock in the portafilter and start the shot. Aim for a 25–30 second extraction time for 1–2 oz of espresso.

5. Serve immediately – A perfect espresso will have a rich crema and a balanced body. Sip straight or use as a base for other drinks.

Americano

Smart Mix Score ●○○○○

ⓘ pours 1 cup

A smooth and approachable espresso-based drink. Hot water stretches the intensity of espresso, creating a bold but easy-drinking cup with depth and clarity.

Flavor Profile Smooth

Espresso-forward with a clean finish. Less bitter than drip coffee, with notes of dark chocolate and toasted grain.

Ingredients

• 1–2 shots espresso (1–2 oz)

• 6–8 oz hot water (just off boil)

Instructions

1. Brew your espresso – Prepare 1–2 shots (18–20g of ground beans) using your espresso machine.

2. Heat the water – Bring filtered water just below boiling (around 200°F).

3. Build your cup – Pour the hot water into a mug first, then gently pour the espresso over top.

4. Serve immediately – Enjoy black or customize with milk, cream, or flavor syrups if desired.

Latte

Smart Mix Score ●●○○○

ⓘ pours 1 cup

A warm, creamy espresso-based classic. Balanced and smooth, the latte blends bold coffee flavor with silky steamed milk for a comforting, everyday favorite.

Flavor Profile Creamy

Espresso softened by steamed milk. Hints of caramel and cocoa with a velvety finish.

Ingredients

• 1–2 shots espresso (1–2 oz)

• 6–8 oz milk (whole or alternative)

Instructions

1. Brew your espresso – Prepare 1–2 shots using fresh grounds and your espresso machine.

2. Steam your milk – Heat milk to 150–160°F using a steam wand or milk frother until velvety and smooth (not overly foamy).

3. Combine – Pour the steamed milk slowly over your espresso, holding back foam with a spoon. Finish with a thin layer of microfoam on top.

4. Serve immediately – Enjoy as-is or customize with syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut.

Cappuccino

Smart Mix Score ●●○○○

ⓘ pours 1 cup

A balanced blend of bold espresso, steamed milk, and airy foam. The cappuccino delivers a drier, stronger experience with a light and creamy texture on top.

Flavor Profile Foamy

Robust espresso cut with equal parts steamed milk and milk foam, offering a light, toasty mouthfeel.

Ingredients

• 1 shot espresso (1 oz)

• 2 oz steamed milk

• 2 oz milk foam

Instructions

Brew your espresso – Pull a single shot using freshly ground beans and your espresso machine.
Steam your milk – Heat and texturize your milk to create both steamed milk and a generous layer of foam.
Layer it – Pour steamed milk over the espresso, then gently spoon foam on top until you reach a 1:1:1 ratio.
Serve immediately – Best enjoyed without stirring to experience the layered effect.