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Top 10 Best Cafe Drinks to Make at Home 

Making café-style drinks at home is easier than ever and a great way to save time and money. You also get to control the flavours, ingredients, and how your drinks look. Whether you're in the mood for a creamy cappuccino, a refreshing iced latte, or a rich hot chocolate, you can make all your favourites from your own kitchen. In this guide, we’ll show you the benefits of making your own café drinks, the tools you need, and easy steps to create the top 10 drinks. Get ready to bring the café experience to your home.

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The benefits of making cafe drinks at home

Making your favourite café drinks at home has several perks that make it a great option for any coffee or tea lover. First, it’s a much more cost-effective approach than frequent visits to your local café. While individual café drinks may seem affordable, the costs can add up quickly. By brewing your own coffee or tea at home, you can enjoy the same high-quality beverages for a fraction of the price.

Another major benefit is the ability to customise your drinks. When you make them at home, you can tailor every aspect to your liking, from the type of milk you use to the strength of your coffee or tea. Whether you prefer plant-based milk, are cutting back on sugar, or want to experiment with different flavours, you have full control over every cup.

Lastly, the convenience of making café-style drinks at home cannot be overstated. No more waiting in long lines or rushing to grab a drink before work. You can easily prepare your favourite beverages whenever you want, enjoying them in the comfort of your home, without needing to go anywhere. It’s a simple way to bring the café experience to you.

Essential tools for crafting cafe drinks 

To create café-quality drinks at home, having the right tools is key. While you don’t need a professional setup, a few essential items can make all the difference in crafting delicious beverages. From coffee makers to milk frothers, using the right equipment ensures you get the perfect flavour and texture every time. Let’s explore the must-have tools that will help you elevate your homemade café drinks.

Coffee maker

The coffee maker is the heart of any café-style drink preparation. Depending on your preference, there are several types to choose from, each offering a unique brewing experience.

An espresso machine is essential for those who enjoy bold, rich flavours and want to make drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. These machines brew a concentrated shot of coffee, which serves as the base for many popular café drinks.

If you prefer a simpler setup, the French press is an excellent choice. It’s easy to use, doesn’t require electricity, and delivers a full-bodied coffee that highlights the natural flavours of the beans.

For a more hands-on experience, a pour-over method like a Chemex or V60 offers precise control over the brewing process. With the ability to adjust water temperature and brewing time, pour-over coffee delivers a smooth, clean taste that’s perfect for true coffee enthusiasts.

No matter which coffee maker you choose, using fresh, high-quality beans will make a noticeable difference in your homemade drinks.

Milk frother 

A milk frother is essential for creating the smooth, creamy textures that define café favourites like lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. Frothing milk adds a rich, velvety layer that elevates the taste and experience of your drink, making it feel like a professional café creation.

There are different types of milk frothers to choose from, each with its own advantages. Handheld frothers are simple to use and affordable, making them a great option for beginners. They quickly whip up frothy milk in just seconds. Electric frothers, on the other hand, offer more control over the froth, allowing you to create both light foam and denser, creamier textures with the push of a button.

For those with an espresso machine, a built-in steam wand is ideal. It gives you the ability to steam and froth milk to perfection, resulting in that signature microfoam texture found in drinks like flat whites and cappuccinos. Whichever tool you choose, frothing milk is key to achieving the authentic café experience at home.

Quality ingredients

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for crafting delicious café drinks at home. Fresh coffee beans, premium tea, and organic milk can significantly enhance the flavour and overall experience of your beverages.

When it comes to coffee, always opt for freshly roasted beans. Look for whole beans that you can grind just before brewing, as this preserves their rich aroma and taste. Choosing the right roast—whether light, medium, or dark—can also impact the flavour profile of your drinks. Don’t hesitate to explore different origins and blends to find what you love most.

For tea-based drinks, such as chai lattes and matcha lattes, high-quality loose leaf tea or matcha powder makes a noticeable difference. Fresh, well-sourced tea leaves bring out the full depth of flavour, while matcha adds vibrant colour and numerous health benefits.

Lastly, milk plays a significant role in many café drinks. Whether you prefer dairy or non-dairy options, selecting high-quality, fresh milk can elevate your beverages. If you're using non-dairy milk, look for brands that offer a creamy texture, as this will froth better and create a more satisfying drink.

Measuring tools 

Precision is key when it comes to making café-style drinks at home, and having the right measuring tools can make a big difference in the quality of your beverages. Consistent measurements help you achieve the perfect balance of flavours and textures, ensuring your drinks taste just right every time.

Start with a digital kitchen scale. This tool allows you to measure coffee beans and other ingredients by weight, which is more accurate than using volume measurements. By weighing your coffee, you can experiment with different coffee-to-water ratios to find the strength that suits your taste.

A measuring cup is also essential for liquids, whether you’re measuring water for brewing or milk for frothing. Look for one with clear markings to ensure accurate measurements.

Additionally, having a measuring spoon can help you accurately add ingredients like sugar, spices, or syrups. These small adjustments can have a significant impact on the overall flavour of your drinks.

Top 10 best cafe drinks to make at home


Now that you have the right tools and ingredients, it’s time to explore some delicious café drinks you can make at home! From strong espressos to creamy lattes and refreshing iced beverages, there’s something for everyone.


1. Espresso 
Espresso is the foundation of many café drinks and a must-know for any coffee lover. This rich and concentrated coffee is made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans, resulting in a bold flavour and a creamy texture. Understanding how to brew the perfect shot of espresso is the first step in creating a variety of delicious beverages, from lattes to cappuccinos.

Ingredients
Fresh coffee beans (preferably a medium to dark roast)
Espresso machine (or a stovetop espresso maker)

Instructions 
Grind the Beans: Start by grinding your coffee beans to a fine consistency, similar to table salt. Aim for about 18-20 grams of coffee for a double shot of espresso.
Prepare the Espresso Machine: If you're using an espresso machine, make sure it’s preheated. Insert the portafilter and fill it with the ground coffee, then tamp it down firmly and evenly.
Brew the Espresso: Lock the portafilter into the machine and start the brewing process. A good shot should take about 25-30 seconds to extract. You’ll know it’s ready when you see a rich, dark liquid flowing with a golden crema on top.
Serve: Pour the espresso into a small cup. Enjoy it on its own, or use it as the base for other café drinks like lattes or mochas.

2. Cappuccino 
A cappuccino is a classic café drink known for its harmonious balance of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. It’s characterised by equal parts of each component, creating a creamy and rich flavour with a delightful texture. Making a perfect cappuccino at home is easier than you might think!

Ingredients 
1 shot of espresso
120ml of milk (dairy or non-dairy)

Instructions 
Brew the Espresso: Start by brewing a shot of espresso using your espresso machine. Follow the steps outlined in the espresso section to ensure a rich and strong base.
Froth the Milk: Pour the milk into a frothing pitcher and use a milk frother or steam wand to froth it. Aim for a creamy microfoam texture. If you're using a handheld frother, submerge it just below the surface of the milk and move it up and down until it doubles in size.
Combine the Ingredients: Once the milk is frothed, gently pour it over the espresso. Start by pouring in the centre and then gradually tilt the cup to create a layered effect. Use a spoon to hold back the foam if you want to add more milk first.
Add the Foam: After pouring the milk, spoon the frothed milk on top to create a thick layer of foam.
Serve: Optionally, you can sprinkle some cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for added flavour and presentation. Enjoy your homemade cappuccino while it’s hot!

3. Flat white 
The flat white is a popular coffee drink that originated in Australia and New Zealand. Known for its smooth texture and rich flavour, it features a shot of espresso topped with velvety microfoam milk. The key difference between a flat white and other espresso-based drinks, like lattes, is the milk texture and the ratio of milk to coffee, resulting in a more intense coffee flavour. Here’s how to make one at home!

Ingredients 
1 shot of espresso
120ml of milk (dairy or non-dairy)

Instructions 
Brew the Espresso: Begin by brewing a shot of espresso using your espresso machine. Follow the same method as outlined in the espresso section to ensure you get a rich and strong base.
Create Microfoam: Pour the milk into a frothing pitcher and use a steam wand or handheld frother to create microfoam. The goal is to achieve a silky texture with tiny bubbles. Heat the milk to about 65°C, and be careful not to over-froth, as flat whites should have a smooth, velvety finish.
Combine the Ingredients: Pour the shot of espresso into a coffee cup. Then, gently pour the frothed milk over the espresso, starting from the centre and tilting the cup slightly. The microfoam should blend seamlessly with the coffee.
Finish and Serve: Optionally, you can create latte art by pouring the milk in a specific way to form shapes. Enjoy your flat white immediately while it’s warm and creamy!

4. Mocha 
A mocha is a delicious blend of coffee and chocolate, perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and indulgent beverage. This drink combines the richness of espresso with creamy steamed milk and chocolate syrup, often topped with whipped cream for an extra treat. Making a mocha at home is simple and satisfying, allowing you to enjoy café-quality drinks in the comfort of your kitchen.

Ingredients 
1 shot of espresso
120ml of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup (store-bought or homemade)
Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions 
Brew the Espresso: Start by brewing a shot of espresso using your espresso machine. Refer to the espresso section for detailed instructions to ensure a strong and rich base.
Mix in the Chocolate: In a coffee cup, add the chocolate syrup. Pour the hot espresso over the syrup, and stir well to combine. This step ensures that the chocolate is fully melted and integrated with the coffee.
Froth the Milk: In a frothing pitcher, heat and froth the milk using a steam wand or handheld frother until it reaches about 65°C. Aim for a creamy microfoam texture that blends well with the coffee and chocolate mixture.
Combine the Ingredients: Pour the frothed milk into the espresso and chocolate mixture. Use a spoon to hold back the foam, adding it on top at the end for a layered effect.
Add Whipped Cream: If desired, top your mocha with a generous dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle extra chocolate syrup on top for added sweetness and decoration.
Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your homemade mocha warm, and indulge in the perfect balance of coffee and chocolate!

5. Iced Latte
An iced latte is a refreshing coffee drink that combines espresso with cold milk and ice, making it a perfect choice for warm days. With its smooth texture and balanced flavours, it’s a popular choice for coffee lovers who want to enjoy their caffeine fix chilled. Here’s how to make a delicious iced latte at home!

Ingredients
1 shot of espresso
120ml of cold milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Ice cubes
Sweetener (optional)

Instructions
Brew the Espresso: Start by brewing a shot of espresso using your espresso machine. Follow the brewing steps outlined in the espresso section to get a rich and flavorful shot.
Prepare the Glass: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, leaving some space at the top for the milk.
Pour the Espresso: Once the espresso is ready, pour it over the ice. The hot espresso will help chill the ice slightly, preventing it from melting too quickly.
Add the Milk: Pour the cold milk over the espresso and ice. You can use any type of milk you prefer—dairy, almond, oat, or soy.
Sweeten (Optional): If you like your iced latte sweetened, add your desired sweetener at this stage, such as sugar, simple syrup, or flavoured syrups.
Stir and Serve: Give the drink a gentle stir to combine the espresso and milk. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon for added flavour if you like.
Enjoy: Sip your refreshing iced latte and enjoy the smooth blend of coffee and milk, perfect for a warm afternoon or as a midday treat

6. Chai latte 
A chai latte is a fragrant and spiced tea-based drink that combines the robust flavours of black tea with warming spices, milk, and a touch of sweetness. Originating from India, chai has become a popular choice for those seeking a comforting and aromatic beverage. Making a chai latte at home allows you to customise the spice blend and sweetness to suit your taste perfectly.

Ingredients 
1 cup of water
1 black tea bag (or 1 tablespoon of loose leaf black tea)
1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1-2 teaspoons of chai spice mix (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper)
Sweetener to taste (honey, sugar, or maple syrup)

Instructions 
Boil the Water: In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
Add Tea and Spices: Once boiling, add the black tea bag (or loose leaf tea) and your chai spice mix. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavours to develop. If you prefer a stronger chai, you can simmer for longer.
Heat the Milk: In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over low heat. Avoid boiling it; you just want it warm.
Strain the Tea: Once the tea has steeped, remove it from the heat and strain it into a large cup or mug to remove the tea leaves and spices.
Combine Tea and Milk: Pour the warm milk into the spiced tea mixture. Stir well to combine.
Sweeten to Taste: Add your preferred sweetener to the chai latte, adjusting the sweetness to your liking.
Serve: Optionally, you can sprinkle a little extra chai spice on top for garnish before serving. Enjoy your homemade chai latte warm and fragrant

7. Matcha latte 
A matcha latte is a vibrant green drink made from finely ground green tea leaves, known for its rich flavour and numerous health benefits. This trendy beverage offers a smooth, creamy texture and a mild sweetness, making it a delightful alternative to coffee. Making a matcha latte at home is simple, and you can easily customise it to your taste!

Ingredients 
1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder
60ml of hot water (not boiling)
120ml of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Sweetener to taste (honey, sugar, or agave syrup)

Instructions
Prepare the Matcha: In a small bowl, add 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder.
Add Hot Water: Pour in the hot water (around 70-80°C) over the matcha powder. Using hot, but not boiling, water helps to avoid bitterness.
Whisk the Matcha: Using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a milk frother, whisk the matcha and water together until you have a smooth, lump-free mixture. You should see a layer of froth on top.
Heat the Milk: In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over low heat, being careful not to boil it. If you prefer a frothy texture, you can use a steam wand or frother to create foam.
Combine Matcha and Milk: Pour the frothed milk into the bowl with the whisked matcha, gently stirring to combine. You can adjust the ratio of matcha to milk based on your taste preference.
Sweeten to Taste: Add your preferred sweetener and stir well to combine. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Serve: Pour the matcha latte into a cup and enjoy it warm. For a refreshing twist, you can also serve it over ice.

8. Affogato 
An affogato is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the rich flavours of espresso with creamy vanilla ice cream. The name "affogato" means "drowned" in Italian, referring to the way the hot espresso is poured over the cold ice cream. This simple yet indulgent treat is perfect for coffee lovers and makes for a quick and elegant dessert option.

Ingredients 
1 shot of hot espresso
1 scoop of vanilla ice cream (or gelato)
Optional toppings: cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or nuts

Instructions 
Brew the Espresso: Start by brewing a shot of hot espresso using your espresso machine. Ensure it’s freshly brewed for the best flavour.
Prepare the Ice Cream: In a serving glass or bowl, place a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can use gelato for a creamier texture if preferred.
Pour the Espresso: Once the espresso is ready, pour it hot over the ice cream. The heat will slightly melt the ice cream, creating a delicious blend of coffee and creaminess.
Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts on top for added flavour and texture.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy your affogato right away while the ice cream is still cold and the espresso is hot. This combination creates a perfect contrast that enhances the overall experience.

9. Cold brew coffee 
Cold brew coffee is a smooth and refreshing coffee option that’s perfect for hot days. Unlike traditional iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then cooled, cold brew is made by steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, resulting in a less acidic and rich flavour. Making cold brew at home is easy and can be done in batches, so you can enjoy this delightful drink anytime!

Ingredients 
1 cup of coarse coffee grounds
4 cups of cold water
Optional: milk or cream, sweetener, or flavourings (like vanilla or caramel)

Instructions 
Combine Coffee and Water: In a large jar or pitcher, add the coarse coffee grounds and pour in the cold water. Stir gently to ensure all the grounds are saturated.
Steep the Mixture: Cover the jar or pitcher and let it steep in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavour will be.
Strain the Coffee: After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or a coffee filter into another jar or pitcher to remove the coffee grounds.
Serve: To serve, fill a glass with ice and pour the cold brew over the top.
Customise: If you like, add milk or cream for a creamier texture, and sweeten to taste with your preferred sweetener or flavourings.
Enjoy: Sip and enjoy your homemade cold brew coffee, perfect for a refreshing boost!

10. Hot chocolate 
Hot chocolate is a classic drink that warms the soul, making it a beloved treat for all ages. This rich and creamy beverage is made with cocoa powder, milk, and sugar, creating a comforting experience perfect for chilly days. Making gourmet hot chocolate at home allows you to customise the flavours and toppings to your liking!

Ingredients 
2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cinnamon

Instructions 
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Add Milk: Slowly pour in about 1/4 cup of the milk and whisk until you have a smooth paste. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
Heat the Mixture: Gradually add the remaining milk while continuing to whisk. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until it's hot but not boiling.
Add Vanilla: Once heated, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug.
Customise: Top with your choice of whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavour.
Enjoy: Sip your homemade hot chocolate and enjoy the cosy warmth it brings!

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Making café-style drinks at home is fun and a great way to save money while enjoying your favourites. From the bold taste of espresso to the creamy goodness of a cappuccino, you can easily recreate these drinks in your own kitchen. With the right tools and quality ingredients, you’ll impress yourself and your friends with delicious drinks that rival any coffee shop.

Ready to start making your café drinks at home? Check out our range for everything you need.

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