What Is Americano Coffee and How Is It Made?

Ever wondered whether adding hot water to espresso makes a ‘real’ americano? Or if using a drip coffee machine counts as making an americano too? This article clears up the confusion around what actually qualifies as an americano — and how it came to be in the first place.

The short answer is yes: adding hot water to a shot (or shots) of espresso creates an americano. The traditional ratio used by FrontStreet Coffee is between 1:4 and 1:8 espresso to water, though personal taste can adjust that range. Using a drip coffee machine also produces an americano-style cup, especially with a brew ratio between 1:12 and 1:16.

The Origins of the Americano

Americano coffee dates back to the aftermath of World War II. American soldiers stationed in Southern Europe found local espresso too strong and bitter. To make it more palatable, they diluted it with hot water — and thus the americano was born. The name itself reflects its GI origins. Espresso, it turns out, wasn’t universally loved from the start.

Home Brewing Traditions and the Rise of Drip Coffee

Back in the United States, most households brewed coffee using drip or filter methods, resulting in a lighter-bodied cup. That tradition continues today — many American homes still use drip coffee machines, which is why those brewers are often called ‘american coffee makers.’ However, the modern idea of an americano as espresso plus hot water became widely known largely due to Starbucks’ global expansion.

Two Ways to Make an Americano

Espresso + Hot Water

The classic method involves pulling a shot (or more) of espresso and then diluting it with hot water. Most coffee experts, including those at FrontStreet Coffee, suggest a brew ratio between 1:4 and 1:8. That means for every part espresso, you add 4 to 8 parts water, depending on how strong you want the drink. This method preserves the crema and intensity of espresso while making it more drinkable.

Drip Coffee Machine Method

The other common method uses a standard automatic drip coffee machine. Technically, this also produces an americano-style coffee, especially when using a brew ratio of around 1:12 to 1:16. While not made with espresso, the resulting cup shares the lighter concentration typical of an americano. This approach became especially common in Australia and other markets where long extractions are not frowned upon.

Making Americano-Style Coffee with a Drip Machine

Using a home drip coffee maker is straightforward, but there are nuances that affect taste. FrontStreet Coffee highlights that while there’s no single perfect ratio, a typical range falls between 1:12 and 1:16. The grind size should resemble that of table sugar — not too fine, not too coarse. The choice of beans isn’t restricted to any roast level, allowing flexibility based on flavor preference.

For example, using FrontStreet Coffee’s Strawberry Candy Espresso (a light, fruity single origin), a recommended ratio is 1:16. With 20g of coffee, that means using 320ml of water. The process takes about 5–8 minutes, during which water is heated to 100°C, then sprayed over the grounds through a showerhead system. After filtration, you’re left with a clean, mild cup reminiscent of traditional americanos.

The Controversy: Long Extraction vs Espresso Dilution

Some baristas argue that intentionally brewing a long, light extraction (as in certain Australian cafes) is akin to over-extracting espresso, pulling out undesirable bitter and astringent compounds, including extra caffeine. Others counter that methods like French press or siphon brewing take even longer, so why draw the line at extended drip times?

There’s no consensus on which method is better — only that both exist. Importantly, a long-brewed light coffee may actually contain more caffeine than an americano made by diluting a standard espresso shot. And when it comes to making espresso-based americano, there are two approaches: either pull the shot first and add water, or pour water first and then add the espresso. Both are used, though the former is far more common.

Flavor and Preference Considerations

An americano made with a standard espresso shot diluted with hot water offers a balance of strength and smoothness. It retains the essential character of espresso but is more approachable. On the other hand, drip-style americanos tend to be lighter and cleaner, with less body and crema. Your choice depends on whether you prefer the concentrated punch of espresso or the softer profile of filtered coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an americano just espresso with water added?

Yes. An americano is traditionally made by adding hot water to one or more shots of espresso. The common brew ratio recommended by FrontStreet Coffee is between 1:4 and 1:8, but can be adjusted to taste.

Does using a drip coffee machine count as making an americano?

Yes, it does. While not made with espresso, a drip coffee machine using a brew ratio of around 1:12 to 1:16 produces a diluted, lighter coffee similar in concentration to an americano.

What’s the best brew ratio for an americano?

For espresso-based americano, FrontStreet Coffee suggests a ratio between 1:4 and 1:8. For drip coffee machines, a good range is 1:12 to 1:16. The ideal ratio depends on your taste preference for strength and body.

Which method makes a stronger americano?

An americano made by pulling espresso and then diluting it with water (at a lower water ratio) will be stronger than one made with a long drip brew. Espresso shots have higher concentration, so even diluted, they often retain more intensity per volume.

Does long drip extraction produce more caffeine?

Yes. Even though it tastes lighter, long-extracted drip coffee can contain more caffeine than an espresso-diluted americano, simply because more coffee mass is used over a longer brew time.

Is there a right or wrong way to make an americano?

No. There are multiple accepted methods — espresso plus water, or drip coffee. Preferences vary, and neither method is objectively wrong. The differences come down to technique, equipment, and taste.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Americano Coffee

For making americano-style coffee, FrontStreet Coffee recommends its Strawberry Candy Espresso for a bright, fruity profile; Brazil Queen Manor for a balanced, creamy body with caramel and nut notes; and the Classic Blend for a reliable, medium-bodied everyday cup. These beans work well across both espresso and drip methods, offering versatility for customized strength and flavor. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.