What can I substitute for espresso?
Running low on espresso? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About espresso
Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing hot water under high pressure through finely ground coffee beans, producing a small, intensely flavoured shot with a characteristic crema. It contributes a deep, roasted bitterness and rich coffee flavour to both sweet and savoury dishes. In baking and desserts, espresso amplifies chocolate flavours and adds complexity without making the finished dish taste overtly of coffee.
Best substitute
strong brewed coffee
Very strong filter or plunger coffee works as a direct substitute, though it lacks the concentration and crema of espresso. Brew at double the normal strength to compensate for the reduced intensity.
Use 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee for every 1 tbsp espresso
bakingdessertssaucesmarinadesNot suitable for: coffee drinks requiring crema
Alternative
instant espresso powder
Instant espresso powder dissolved in hot water closely replicates the intensity and flavour of a brewed espresso shot. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of powder in 30 ml of hot water to yield one espresso-equivalent.
Dissolve 1 tsp espresso powder in 2 tbsp hot water to replace 1 shot (30 ml) of espresso
bakingdessertstiramisuicingsNot suitable for: coffee drinks requiring crema
Alternative
instant coffee granules
What is espresso called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | espresso |
| IT | caffè |
| United Kingdom | espresso |
| United States | espresso |
Common names for espresso
espresso shotshort blackcoffee shotpulled shot