Ahh, the Caffè Americano, a classic coffee beverage that blends espresso with water, resulting in a drink reminiscent of traditional drip coffee but with a distinct flavor profile.

The origins of the Americano are often traced back to World War II. When American soldiers stationed in Italy found espresso too strong for their palates, they diluted it with hot water to make it more like the coffee they were accustomed to back home. 

The typical ratio ranges from 1:1 to 1:4 espresso to water, depending on your preference for strength.

What makes the Americano unique is how the dilution affects taste; the water reduces the oil concentration from the espresso, which changes how flavors present on your palate.

Want to make an Americano at home? Here’s what you’ll need:

Equipment and Ingredients

Equipment

• Espresso machine (or alternative like a Moka pot or AeroPress)
• Coffee grinder (preferably burr grinder)
• Tamper
• Kettle for heating water
• Scale (optional but really recommended)
• A preheated mug (I’ll explain why when we get there)

Ingredients

• Freshly roasted coffee beans (espresso or medium-dark roast)
• Filtered water
• Optional additions (sugar, milk, cream)

NOTE: The foundation of a great Americano is a quality espresso shot, which means proper equipment matters. While a dedicated espresso machine delivers optimal results, entry-level options or even alternatives like a Moka pot can produce acceptable results for home brewing

How to Make an Americano: Step-by-Step

Here’s how you can make a cafe-quality Americano at home: 

Step 1: Prepare Your Water

Water temperature significantly impacts the flavor here, and while regular water works, consider using filtered water because it allows for more control over the taste. 

That being said, go ahead and bring water to approximately 93°C (200°F)—just below boiling. 

Fill your cup with hot (regular) water to warm it, then discard this water before making your Americano. This step helps maintain the beverage’s temperature longer and prevents the poured espresso from losing its uniform taste due to sudden changes in temperature. 

Now, let’s bring back the ratios. Different ratio preferences exist, but a standard Americano uses a 2:1 water-to-espresso ratio. For a double shot (approximately 50ml), prepare 100ml of hot water.

Related: Why Is My Espresso Watery?

Step 2: Set Up Your Espresso

Choose quality, freshly roasted beans. Espresso blends work well, but single-origin beans can offer interesting flavor profiles. You can try what works for you here. 

For a double shot, measure 16-18 grams of coffee beans. Use a fine grind appropriate for espresso, significantly finer than what you’d use for drip coffee.

NOTE: The grind should resemble table salt in consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Portafilter

Add ground coffee to your portafilter and make sure that you distribute it evenly to avoid getting a taste that’s too strong or too light. 

Tamp firmly with approximately 20-30 pounds of pressure until you create a level, compressed puck of coffee. 

Don’t forget to wipe away any loose grounds from the portafilter rim to ensure a proper seal when attached to the machine.

Step 4: Start Making Your Americano

You have two approaches here: 

• The Traditional method: Add hot water to the mug first, then pull espresso over it.
• The Alternative method: Pull espresso first, then add hot water.

The traditional method allows the espresso taste to distribute evenly across the whole cup. It can be hard to maintain the taste consistency throughout the cup using the alternative method, which often results in light taste at the top and a harsh taste at the bottom. 

Fill your preheated mug about 2/3 full with hot water. Then, lock the portafilter into place and extract your espresso directly into the mug containing hot water. A proper double shot should take 25-30 seconds to extract.

NOTE: Look for a steady stream with golden-brown crema forming as the espresso mixes with the water.

Step 5: Serve

A well-made Americano should have a thin layer of crema on top and a rich amber color. If the flavor is too strong, add more hot water. 

If it’s too weak, there’s not much you can do this time, but consider using a smaller water ratio next time.

Drink (or serve) immediately. Americanos are best enjoyed fresh, while the crema is still present and the temperature optimal.

Additional Tips to Create the Perfect Americano

• The espresso quality really matters: Since an Americano is primarily espresso and water, any defects in your espresso will be noticeable in the final drink.
• Match the ratio to your taste: Experiment with different water-to-espresso ratios, from 1:1 for a stronger drink to 1:4 for a milder option. If you didn’t like one of the ratios, it doesn’t necessarily mean you made a mistake. The ratio may just simply not be for you. 
• Clean equipment is a must: You don’t want today’s coffee with yesterday’s remnants. Residual coffee oils can impart bitter flavors, so maintain clean equipment for best results.

The Final Scoop

The Americano represents an ideal middle ground in the coffee spectrum—offering the rich flavors of espresso in a more approachable format than a straight shot. 

Its simplicity makes it perfect for home brewing, while the subtle variations in technique provide room for experimentation and personalization. That’s why it’s a favorite among many. 

Allow some room for mistakes in the beginning until you get it right. Give yourself some time to learn how to make coffee and how to love it.