Americano
A coffee beverage made from a shot or two of espresso mixed with hot water to make a full sized drink. Americano is short for “Caffe Americano”, which is Italian for espresso coffee served American style.
Biscotti
Biscotti (pronounced “bis-koh-tee”), in Italian, refers to twice baked cookies. In North America, biscotti are mostly associated with coffee. A Biscotto (singular form of Biscotti) is a dipping cookie. In Italy biscotti are generally dipped into wine. Traditionally, biscotti were almond flavored. Today, because of their popularity in coffee houses, many different ingredients are added: dried fruits, chocolate, nuts, seeds, spices, etc. Biscotti are often served frozen with melted chocolate or frosting, topped with nuts or even coated with colored sprinkles. Video
Black and White
An alcoholic drink made from one part coffee liquor, usually Kahlua, and one part milk or vanilla schnapps. Carefully layer 1/2 ounces coffee liquor over 1/2 ounces of milk, or vanilla schnapps, in a shot glass and serve.
Black Eye
A cup of American coffee with two shots of espresso added. Also known as a Sling Blade, Shot in the Dark, Cafe Tobio, Autobahn, or Hammerhead.
Black Russian
An alcoholic coffee drink. To make a Black Russian, fill a rocks glass with Crushed ice, add 1.5 ounce vodka and 1.5 ounce Coffee Liqueur. Video
Breve
A milk based espresso drink made with half-and-half, or light cream, instead of whole milk. Breve means “short” in Italian, and in some locations refers to a cappuccino made with light cream.
Cafe
French word for “coffee”.
Cafe au Lait
Similar to a Latte, but made with filter drip or French Press coffee instead of espresso. To make a simple Cafe au Lait, mix equal portions of brewed coffee and heated or steamed milk. The “French” style is to serve a Cafe au Lait in a white porcelain cup or bowl. Cafe au Lait is French for “coffee with milk”. Video
Cafe Bonbon
Condensed milk poured carefully over espresso and served in a small glass. The shot of espresso remains separated from the milk until stirred, as in a black and white. Cafe Bonbon is French for “candy coffee”.
Cafe Noisette
Cafe Noisette (“kuh-fay nwah-zett”) is espresso with a small amount of milk added. Cafe Noisette is French for “hazelnut coffee”, a reference to the dark color of espresso.
Caffe
Italian for “coffee”.
Cappuccino
A beverage made from espresso, hot milk, and frothed milk. To make a Cappuccino, add equal parts of espresso, hot steamed milk, and velvety milk froth. A dry Cappuccino is the same drink without the hot milk. Cappuccinos are traditionally served in a small cup, or demitasse.
Espresso con Panna
Italian for “espresso with cream”, an Espresso Con Panna is a shot of espresso topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
Espresso Granita
A slushy chopped ice dessert made from espresso. The word “granita” comes from the Italian the word “grano” meaning “grain”, a reference to the grainy texture of ice used to make a Granita. To make an Espresso Granita, freeze extra strong sweetened espresso, crush or chop finely, and serve in a clear glass topped or layered with whipped cream.
Gelato
Italian ice cream made from creamy milk and sugar with fruit, flavorings, and sometimes eggs added. Non-dairy gelato is known as sorbetto. Video
