15 Best Coffee Recipes You Need to Try Today

Introduction to Coffee

Coffee was first discovered in Ethiopia in the 9th century, later spreading to Arabia and quickly conquering Europe. By the 19th century, coffee had been introduced to Vietnam by the French and has since become an inseparable part of daily life.

The coffee-making process is just as sophisticated. After harvesting the ripe red cherries, they are processed using two main methods: natural (sun-drying the whole fruit) or washed (fermenting, rinsing, and then drying) to preserve a cleaner flavor. The beans are then hulled, sorted, and roasted at different levels. Roasting is the key step that defines the unique flavor of each coffee, ranging from light and fruity to bold and intense. Finally, roasted beans are ground to a suitable fineness depending on the brewing method, such as Vietnamese phin, espresso, or pour-over.

Health Benefits of Coffee

Coffee, known for its high caffeine content, has been extensively studied for its positive effects on health. Research shows that caffeine can boost energy, improve concentration, and enhance alertness. It works by interacting with adenosine receptors in the brain, reducing feelings of fatigue and increasing cognitive performance. This is especially valuable for people working in environments that demand high focus.

15 Coffee and Matcha Recipes You Must Try!

Espresso (Italian Espresso)

• Extract a single shot using 7–9g of coffee grounds for 20–30 seconds to yield 14–18g. Or pull a double shot with 16–20g grounds for 30–35 seconds to yield 32–40g.

• Tip: Pay attention to extraction time and grind size. If extraction is under 20 seconds, grind finer. If over 35 seconds, grind coarser for a balanced flavor and beautiful crema.
  

Americano

• Pull one espresso shot (18g grounds, extract 36g in 20–30 seconds), pour into a cup, then add 250ml filtered water.
  Tip: Use purified or filtered water for a clean, crisp taste.
  

Creamy Americano

• Pull one espresso shot, add ice cubes, then top with water and frothed milk. Stir well.

• Tip: Replace milk foam with lightly whipped heavy cream for a richer texture.
  

Latte (Italian Style)

• Pull one espresso shot, add 250ml steamed milk with microfoam, stir gently.

• Tip: Chill milk before steaming and heat only to 60–65°C for natural sweetness and silky microfoam.
  

Flat White

• One espresso shot topped with 170ml steamed milk with microfoam.
  

Cappuccino

• One espresso shot topped with 230ml steamed milk with thicker foam.
  

Mocha

• One espresso shot mixed with 15g chocolate syrup and 230ml steamed milk.
  

Iced Americano

• One espresso shot over ice, optionally with caramel syrup and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Tip: Let the espresso cool slightly before pouring over ice to avoid dilution.
  

Caramel Macchiato

• One espresso shot with 230ml steamed milk, topped with caramel drizzle.

• Tip: Layer milk, foam, and espresso for a striking look and balanced sweetness.
  

Oat Milk Latte

• One espresso shot with 250ml steamed oat milk.
  

Thick Milk Latte

• One espresso shot topped with lightly whipped cream and 250ml full-fat milk.

• Tip: Use cold whipping cream for a denser, creamier texture.
  

Dirty Coffee

• One espresso shot poured over 180ml chilled milk with ice cubes.

• Tip: Use very cold milk and pour hot espresso on top to create layered visuals.
  

Matcha Latte

• Whisk 2–3g matcha powder with 30ml hot water using a bamboo whisk. Add 250ml steamed milk and mix well.
  Tip: Sift matcha before mixing to avoid clumps.
  

Spanish Latte

• One espresso shot mixed with 15g condensed milk, then topped with 230ml steamed milk.
  

Vanilla Latte

• One espresso shot mixed with 15g vanilla syrup and 230ml steamed milk.