The Best Coffee Beans for Espresso | Professional Guide

Brewing a perfect espresso is both an art and a science. From the coffee beans to the brewing technique, every step matters in ensuring your espresso is as flavorful and robust as it can be. There are many kinds of coffee beans out there, but not all will produce the desired espresso flavor profile you’re looking for. If you’re considering making your own at-home espresso blend or just want to know more about what type of bean might work best – this blog post will show you how to choose the best coffee beans for espresso. Read on to learn more about what goes into crafting great homemade espresso.

What is espresso?

Espresso is a type of coffee that is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground and densely packed coffee beans, producing a concentrated shot of flavor. The brewing technique produces an intense flavor with more body than drip coffee. It also has crema (a creamy layer on top) that’s unique to espresso shots.

What are coffee beans?

Coffee beans are the seeds of the coffee plant. They come in two varieties – Arabica and Robusta. The Arabica variety is known for its smooth, mild flavor, while the Robusta has a harsher, more bitter taste.

Types of coffee beans for espresso

While any type of coffee bean can be used to make espresso, some are better suited than others. Arabica beans are the preferred choice for espresso since they tend to have a fuller body and more acidity than Robusta. Additionally, Arabica beans develop a richer flavor profile when roasted darker, which is great for when you want an intense espresso shot with notes of chocolate and caramel.

The key to finding the right beans for your espresso will come down to trial and error as different coffees react differently with each roast and brew method. Generally speaking, you should look for qualities like sweetness, aroma, acidity, texture, richness, aftertaste, and body.

How do coffee beans for espresso differ?

When selecting espresso beans, you’ll want to look for varieties that have the right balance of acidity and sweetness. You also need to find a bean that is roasted dark enough so it produces a full-bodied and intense flavor. A darker roast will bring out more intense flavors of cocoa, nuttiness, and caramel – which are desired qualities in espresso coffee.

How to choose the best coffee beans for espresso?

The best way to find the right beans for your espresso is to start by buying a smaller quantity of beans from your local roaster or online store. Try different roast levels and blends, and pay attention to the characteristics that each bean brings out in the cup. Take notes on what you like and dislike so that you can narrow down your choices for future batches. Some coffee bean brands also offer single-origin espressos, which are a great option because it allows you to experiment with different flavors without having to buy multiple bags.

Things to consider when choosing coffee beans for espresso

1. Roast level: Espresso beans are typically roasted for a longer time at higher temperatures than other types of coffee. This brings out oils and sugars that give espresso its unique flavor profile. Look for a dark roast and pay attention to the aroma and sweetness levels.

2. Blend or single origin: Blends contain multiple types of coffees, which can create complex flavors while also masking some of the individual bean characteristics. Single-origin espressos, on the other hand, will provide more single-bean characteristics in each shot.

3. Freshness: Coffee beans lose their flavor over time once they’ve been roasted, so it’s best to buy freshly roasted beans if possible. If you need to store your beans, make sure they’re airtight and kept away from moisture.

4. Type of bean (Arabica or Robusta) and origin: Arabica beans are the most widely used for espresso, but Robusta can also be used. Pay attention to the origin of your beans – some regions will produce different flavor notes than others.

5. Grind size: The size of your grind can have a big impact on the flavor of your espresso. Too fine and you’ll end up with an over-extracted, bitter shot; too coarse and you’ll get an under-extracted cup that’s lacking in body and flavor. Experiment with different grind sizes until you find one that works for you.

6. Taste profile (sweetness, aroma, acidity, texture, richness, aftertaste, body): Pay attention to the taste profile of your espresso. Different beans will produce different notes in each shot – some may be more sweet, acidic, or have a richer texture than others. This is where experimentation and tasting come into play.

Tips to find the best coffee bean for espresso

– Buy from a reputable coffee roaster or online store.

– Look for freshly roasted beans if possible.

– Consider both single origin and blends.

– Experiment with different roast levels and origins.

– Pay attention to the flavor notes in each shot.

– Adjust your grind size until you get the desired flavor profile of your espresso.

Best coffee beans for espresso by coffee beans types

Arabica

The most popular choice for espresso, Arabica beans are known for their smooth and mild flavor. They tend to be sweeter, more flavorful, and less acidic than Robusta beans. Look for beans that have been roasted dark and pay attention to the origin of the beans – some regions will produce different flavor notes than others.

Robusta

While not as common as Arabica, Robusta can also be used to make espresso. This type of bean has a harsher taste with more body than Arabica but lacks the subtle flavors found in Arabica shots. Darker roasts generally work best with this bean type since it brings out its inherent sweetness and body.

Best coffee beans for espresso by brands

Partners Coffee Elevate Espresso

Partners’ Elevate espresso blend is made with Brazilian and Honduran coffee beans. This full-bodied espresso has notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and hints of citrus. Its low acidity makes it a great choice for those who don’t want their espresso to be too bitter or acidic.

Stumptown Holler Mountain Espresso

Stumptown’s Holler Mountain espresso blend is a mix of Ethiopian and Colombian coffee beans. This medium-dark roast has notes of dark chocolate, caramel, graham cracker, and almond. It features a creamy body with a sweet finish and low acidity.

Chamberlain Coffee Fancy Mouse

Chamberlain Coffee’s Fancy Mouse espresso blend is a mix of beans from Guatemala and Colombia. This medium-dark roast has notes of milk chocolate, praline, and a hint of citrus. Its low acidity makes it a great choice for those who want a balanced espresso with no bitterness.

Onyx Coffee Lab Monarch Espresso

Onyx Coffee Lab’s Monarch espresso blend is a mix of Brazilian and Nicaraguan beans. This dark roast has notes of blackberry, brown sugar, and cocoa. It features a full-bodied mouthfeel with intense flavors and low acidity.

Volcanica Espresso Dark Roast Decaf Coffee

Volcanica’s Espresso Dark Roast Decaf is a mix of beans from Brazil and Ethiopia. This dark roast has notes of sweet chocolate, caramel, and hazelnut. It features low acidity and a full-bodied mouthfeel with no bitterness.

Blossom Coffee Dark Side of The Moon

Blossom Coffee’s Dark Side of The Moon espresso blend is a mix of beans from Indonesia and Ethiopia. This dark roast has notes of dark chocolate, praline, and blackberry jam. It features low acidity and a creamy body with intense flavor.

Stone Street Coffee Perfect Espresso

Stone Street Coffee’s Perfect Espresso is a mix of Brazilian and Ethiopian beans. This dark roast has notes of brown sugar, dark chocolate, and graham cracker. It features low acidity and a creamy mouthfeel with intense flavor.

Wink Coffee Blonde Espresso

Wink Coffee’s Blonde Espresso is a mix of beans from Brazil and Honduras. This light-medium roast has notes of caramel, citrus, and honey. It features low acidity and a sweet finish with no bitterness.

Halo Halo Single Origin Espresso

Halo Halo’s Single Origin espresso is made with beans from Ethiopia. This medium-dark roast has notes of dark chocolate, berry, and citrus. It features a creamy body with a sweet finish and low acidity.

Coffee Bros. Espresso Roast Coffee

Coffee Bros. Espresso Roast is a mix of beans from Colombia and Ethiopia. This dark roast has notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and toffee. It features low acidity and a creamy body with intense flavors.

Can I make espresso with any coffee beans?

No, not all coffee beans can be used for espresso. Arabica beans are the most widely used for espresso, but Robusta can also be used. Pay attention to the origin of your beans – some regions will produce different flavor notes than others. Also, it’s important to make sure you have the right grind size and freshness for maximum flavor in your espresso shots.

Where to find the best coffee beans for espresso?

The best place to find the best coffee beans for espresso is Phuong Anh. We specialize in providing premium, fresh-roasted Arabica and Robusta beans that are perfect for customizing your at-home espresso blend. Our team of experienced baristas has tasted and tested many types of coffees from all over the world, allowing us to select only the finest and most flavorful espressos for our customers. All of our beans come with detailed tasting notes so you know exactly what flavors you’re getting with each bag.

Conclusion: Best coffee beans for espresso

When it comes to finding the best coffee beans for espresso, there are many factors that go into making a great cup. From roast level and blend to single origin and grind size, you’ll want to experiment with different qualities until you find the one that works for you. Keep in mind what type of bean (Arabica or Robusta) and flavor profile (sweetness, aroma, acidity, richness, etc.) you prefer when selecting your beans. With a little trial and error, you’ll be able to craft a perfect cup of espresso from the comfort of your own home.

FAQ: Coffee beans for espresso

What type of coffee beans are best for espresso?

If stored correctly in the fridge, kimchi can remain edible for as long as 6 months. However, you must refrain from consuming it if it exudes an unpleasant odor or has evident signs of mold growth. To guarantee food safety, it is always advisable to dispose of any suspicious dishes.

What coffee beans do Italians use for espresso?

In Italy’s northern regions, the perfect espresso blend is predominantly Arabica, complemented by a small 20-30% proportion of Robusta for a delightfully aromatic and balanced taste. However, in the southern regions, espresso lovers opt for a greater concentration of robust Robusta, delivering a bold, rich flavor with every sip.

What coffee beans to use for espresso?

Dark-roasted beans exhibit a deep brown hue and possess a lustrous, oil-coated exterior. Typically reserved for espresso brewing, these beans boast a robust and distinctive flavor.

Do you need Robusta coffee beans in espresso?

By utilizing an espresso machine, the robusta variety of coffee yields a rich and abundant crema. Consequently, it is a required component in traditional Italian espresso blends. While American roasters often incorporate premium robustas in their espresso blends, it is the Italian espresso that is renowned for its exceptional crema.

Is 100 Arabica coffee beans good for espresso?

For those new to the world of espresso, consider beginning your journey with a 100% Arabica roast in the medium to dark range. This exclusive blend yields a mellow and velvety-smooth espresso that’s perfect for beginners and coffee aficionados alike.

What coffee beans beans are used in Starbucks espresso?

Discover the Espresso Roast Coffee of Starbucks – perfect for your favorite drinks. Indulge in the rich and robust taste that Starbucks has been famous for. This premium ground espresso is not only used in their famous caffe latte but also their cappuccino, americano, and mocha. Order online or grab one at a store near you.

Is Starbucks coffee beans good for espresso?

Indulge in the rich and robust flavor of the STARBUCKS Espresso Roast Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee. This top-quality espresso coffee boasts a skillfully roasted and dark taste that promises to pack a punch in every sip. Experience the perfect balance of boldness and quality with each cup.

How much coffee beans for espresso?

The crema, characterized by its smooth and tight bubbles, is the quintessential mark of a quality espresso. To achieve this signature aroma and creaminess for a single shot, simply use 6-8 grams (or 1.5-2 tsp) of ground beans per 1-1.5 fluid ounce (or 2-3 Tbsp). Alternatively, for a double shot, utilize 15 grams (or 3.5 tsp) of ground beans per 2 fluid ounces (or 4 Tbsp).

Do you need special coffee beans for espresso?

Here’s a straightforward answer: Any coffee can be used in an espresso machine as long as it is finely ground. However, dark roasted coffee is often preferred for its bolder taste. In fact, you may come across coffee labeled as ‘espresso’ because of its darker roast.

Do all coffee beans make espresso?

Many wonder if all coffee beans can be used to make a delightful espresso. The reality is that both espresso beans and regular coffee beans are indeed the same kind of coffee beans. However, what sets them apart lies in the roast quality, grind quality, and tantalizing taste. Espresso beans undergo a unique roasting and grinding process, carefully tailored to complement the intricate brewing technique of the espresso machine. This distinction ensures a heavenly cup of espresso that simply cannot be replicated with ordinary beans.