Culture & Lifestyle • Coffee

Espresso

Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans. Originating in Italy, it is typically served in small portions with a layer of foam called crema and serves as the base for many coffee drinks such as cappuccino and latte. In Canada, espresso is widely used in cafés and homes as the foundation of popular coffee drinks.

Definition and origin

Espresso is a coffee-brewing method and beverage that developed in Italy. The word refers to coffee made quickly under pressure, and it is now used internationally for both the drink and the brewing method.

Preparation and equipment

Espresso is made with finely ground coffee, hot water, and high pressure, usually using an espresso machine. The process produces a concentrated shot with a dense body and crema. A typical espresso takes around 25 to 30 seconds to extract.

Flavor and caffeine

Espresso is known for a bold, intense flavour and higher concentration than regular coffee. Although it has more caffeine per unit volume, a single shot often contains less caffeine than a larger cup of drip coffee. Espresso contains more caffeine per ounce than many other coffees, but a standard serving is small.

Use in coffee drinks

Espresso is the base for many popular coffee beverages. Milk- and foam-based drinks such as cappuccino and latte start with one or more espresso shots.

Key facts

Espresso is brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans.
It is more concentrated than drip coffee and usually served as a small shot.
A typical espresso has crema, a light foam on top.
Espresso usually takes around 25–30 seconds to extract.
Espresso contains more caffeine per ounce than many other coffees, but a standard serving is small.

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Canadian context

Espresso is widely used in Canadian cafés and homes, and it is the foundation of many popular Canadian coffee drinks, including lattes and cappuccinos.

Frequently asked questions

What is espresso?

Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans.

How do you make espresso at home?

Use an espresso machine or another pressure-based brewer, finely ground coffee, and fresh beans. Pack the grounds evenly, extract a short shot, and aim for a small serving with crema.

What is the difference between espresso and coffee?

Espresso is a brewing method and a concentrated drink, while “coffee” can refer to many brewing styles. Drip coffee is less concentrated and usually served in a larger cup.

How much caffeine is in espresso?

Espresso has more caffeine per ounce than most coffee drinks, but a single shot is small. The caffeine content varies by dose, bean, and extraction, so totals differ by serving.

What is an espresso machine?

An espresso machine is a device that forces hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure to make espresso.

What are the best espresso beans?

There is no single best bean; espresso is commonly made with fresh, high-quality beans roasted for espresso, often medium to dark roast. Grind size, freshness, and extraction matter as much as bean origin.

References

Merriam-Webster —
Supports: Definition of espresso as coffee brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans.
Britannica —
Supports: Espresso as a strong brew produced under pressure through finely ground coffee and associated flavor characteristics.
Wikipedia —
Supports: Typical serving size, crema, extraction time, and overview of espresso as a concentrated coffee beverage.
Cambridge Dictionary —
Supports: Definition of espresso as strong coffee made by forcing hot water through crushed coffee beans and served without milk.