Espresso extraction from naked portafilter showing crema

How to Make Americano: Water Ratio and Recipe

The classic Americano preparation — espresso diluted with hot water for a drip-coffee-like experience with espresso character

Quick Answer: Americano Recipe

An Americano combines 2oz (60ml) espresso with 4-6oz (120-180ml) hot water at 195-205°F. The standard Americano ratio is 1:2 to 1:3 espresso-to-water. Add water to espresso (not espresso to water) to preserve crema. The Americano delivers drip-coffee volume with espresso's complex flavor profile.

Americano Ingredients and Specifications

Americano Ingredients

Espresso: 2oz (60ml) double shot — the Americano base
Hot Water: 4-6oz (120-180ml) at 195-205°F
Optional: Light roast espresso for brighter flavor

Americano Specifications

Standard Ratio: 1:2 to 1:3 espresso-to-water
Total Volume: 6-8oz (180-240ml)
Water Temperature: 195-205°F (90-96°C)
Serving Cup: 8-10oz ceramic mug

Step-by-Step Americano Preparation

Pull a Double Espresso Shot

Grind 18-20g of coffee beans and extract 2oz (60ml) of espresso in 25-30 seconds. The Americano base requires quality espresso with rich crema. Medium or light roast beans produce brighter Americano flavor. Dark roast creates bolder, more traditional Americano character. The espresso should extract directly into the serving cup or a separate vessel.

Heat Water to Proper Temperature

Heat filtered water to 195-205°F (90-96°C). Water temperature affects Americano extraction — too hot creates bitterness, too cool produces sour notes. Use fresh, filtered water for best results. Some espresso machines have hot water spouts that deliver proper temperature automatically.

Add Hot Water to Espresso

Pour 4-6oz of hot water into the cup containing espresso. Adding water to espresso (rather than espresso to water) preserves some crema on the Americano surface. This order distinguishes Americano from Long Black preparation. The standard ratio starts at 1:2 (2oz espresso to 4oz water) and adjusts to taste preference up to 1:3.

Serve Americano Immediately

The Americano should be served immediately while hot. Optional: stir gently to integrate espresso and water. The crema layer may dissipate quickly in Americano preparation — this is normal and does not affect flavor. A properly made Americano offers drip-coffee volume with espresso's complex flavor profile.

Americano Ratio Guide by Strength Preference

Strength	Espresso	Water	Total Volume	Flavor Profile
Strong	2oz	3-4oz	5-6oz	Intense, espresso-forward
Standard	2oz	4-5oz	6-7oz	Balanced, classic Americano
Mild	2oz	6-8oz	8-10oz	Gentle, tea-like
Double Shot	4oz	8-12oz	12-16oz	Large format, strong

Americano vs Long Black: Key Differences

Characteristic	Americano	Long Black
Preparation Order	Espresso first, water second	Water first, espresso second
Crema Preservation	Minimal crema remains	Crema layer preserved
Water Ratio	1:2 to 1:3	1:2 typically
Origin	American adaptation	Australian/New Zealand
Flavor Profile	Integrated, uniform	Layered, crema-forward

The preparation order fundamentally changes the drinking experience. Americano integrates espresso and water more completely, while Long Black preserves the crema's aromatic oils on the surface.

Americano Variations

Iced Americano

Espresso poured over ice, then cold water added.

Ratio: 2oz espresso + ice + 6oz cold water

Red Eye

Drip coffee with espresso shot added for extra caffeine.

Ratio: 8oz drip + 1oz espresso

Black Eye

Drip coffee with double espresso shot.

Ratio: 8oz drip + 2oz espresso

Café Crema

Longer espresso extraction instead of water dilution.

Method: 4-6oz extraction from 18g coffee

Lungo

Extended espresso extraction with more water through puck.

Method: 3-4oz from standard dose

Italiano

Regional variation with specific water type.

Note: Often uses mineral water

Tips for Perfect Americano

💧 Water Quality

Use filtered water free from chlorine and off-flavors. Water quality significantly impacts Americano taste since water comprises 75-80% of the drink.

🌡️ Temperature Control

Maintain water temperature between 195-205°F. Boiling water scorches espresso oils; water below 190°F produces under-extracted, sour flavor.

⚖️ Ratio Adjustment

Start with 1:2 ratio and adjust to taste. Lighter roasts may benefit from less water (stronger ratio); dark roasts often taste better with more water.

☕ Espresso Quality

Americano quality depends entirely on espresso quality. Poorly extracted espresso cannot be masked by water dilution. Dial in shots before making Americano.