Espresso is often served in little cups called “demitasse,” which denotes the serving size.
Table Of Contents
−- Our top 10 best picks for espresso cups
- 1. De’Longhi 2x Thermo Espresso Cups – Best overall
- 2. Le Creuset Petite Espresso Mug
- 3. Aozita Italian Espresso Cups & Saucers
- 4. JoyJolt Savor Demitasse Espresso Mugs
- 5. Easy Living Goods Espresso Cups & Saucers
- 6. Zenco Espresso Glass-Cups
- 7. Gibson Espresso Expression Cups
- 8. Loveramics Espresso Cups and Saucer Egg Style
- 9. Sweese 403.002 Cappuccino Cups with Saucers
- 10. Bodum Espresso Cups
- Guide to buying espresso cups and saucers
- Conclusion
- FAQs
To translate this, it means “half cup” in French. However, the variety of espresso cups available extends well beyond smaller copies of standard cups.
Your thick, crema-topped coffee will taste even better with the aid of a fantastic espresso cup!
We know there are a lot of choices out there, so we want to make your selection a little simpler for you.
For your convenience, we’ve sifted through a ton of reviews and selected the best ones. Here are our top eight picks for espresso cups, as well as a buyer’s guide.
Our top 10 best picks for espresso cups
1. De’Longhi 2x Thermo Espresso Cups – Best overall
Great functionality is the reason why the De’Longhi’s 2-ounce double-walled espresso cups are timeless classics. We put them at the top of the list not just because of their popularity but also because of the impressive heat retention capability that these cups possess.
One of the best features of these glasses is that they can be washed in the dishwasher. With these, you won’t have to be concerned about them sitting out after you’ve had your espresso.
Allow the crema to set on the cups before putting them in the dishwasher.
Glasses with a sleek, contemporary silhouette that nods to classic design elements are available here. These little details, as well as the cups’ strong construction, are appealing to us.
If you’re seeking to stock up on exquisite espresso cups, these are a terrific option. While they may not be the greatest option for businesses due to the fact that some consumers have complained about them being too sensitive, this shouldn’t be an issue for everyday usage at home.
The greatest espresso cups in 2021, in our opinion.
Pros
- Cost-effective
- Good insulation
- Ideal size for single shot espresso
- Easy to clean
- Elegant in appearance and feel
Cons
- Fragile
- Some people may find it inconvenient because there is no handle.
- Short lifespan
- Doubly-walled spaces may allow water to soak through.
2. Le Creuset Petite Espresso Mug
These are excellent picks if you’re searching for something a bit different. Dutch ovens are Le Creuset’s most famous product, of course. On the other hand, it’s also a master at preparing an espresso cup.
The Le Creuset 3.5 Ounce Petite cups are made of ceramic, not glass, like the De’Longhi cups. Natural insulators like ceramic are quite rare.
This eliminates the need for a second layer of protection. Consequently, they’ll be more durable and ready to withstand any tough treatment.
In addition, we’re smitten with vibrant hues. Take a look at the possibilities, regardless of whether you just want a few mugs in the same color or many different shades.
The De’Longhi mugs are 2 inches tall, but these mugs are 2.5 inches tall. As a result, two shots, as well as a little milk, will fit just well. Depending on how your shots pull, they might also work for cortados in addition to a regular macchiato.
Pros
- Vibrant colors and fun designs
- Durable ceramic material
- Variety of colors to choose from
- A ten-year warranty along with durable construction
Cons
- Absence of a traditional café appearance
- For some people, a lip curve that is a little too pronounced looks unnatural and heavy.
3. Aozita Italian Espresso Cups & Saucers
Featuring a sleek, contemporary design, the Aozita Italian Espresso Cups are uniquely designed enough to impress. We enjoy how neatly they stack and how well they go with Aozita’s saucers and spoons they’ve designed. Since they’re so robust, these mugs are a great choice for cafes or families on the road.
Dishwasher-safe mugs make things even simpler.
These, as well as saucers and spoons, are often sold by Aozita. Because of this, you will be able to put together a cohesive appearance that wows your visitors.
Overall, we enjoy these cups and believe stacking them together is a creative idea. Due to their lack of originality, they don’t deserve to be higher on the list. These cups, on the other hand, are ideal for those seeking a no-frills, durable solution.
Pros
- Great classic appearance
- Well-organized stacking capability
Cons
- Not as large as some other alternatives in terms of storage capacity
- Not at all interesting
4. JoyJolt Savor Demitasse Espresso Mugs
JoyJolt’s Savor Double Wall is the next entry on the list. The De’Longhi double-walled cups are similar, but we believe they are a terrific addition to the mix.
Drinks stay hot longer in these cups thanks to the double walls, and the glass finish adds an attractive touch.
For those who like little iced beverages, these glasses are a perfect solution. The insulation offered by the twin walls performs an excellent job of keeping the temperature stable, and the reasonably big capacity can comfortably handle a few ice cubes and a couple of shots.
We’re worried about breaking one of them since they’re so flimsy. As a result, these single-walled cups fall below their double-walled counterparts in our rankings.
Pros
- Exceptionally well-insulated
- Ample capacity
- It isn’t heavy
- The ideal coffee cup size for brewing a single serving
- Design that’s simple but stunning
Cons
- It’s not possible to stack
- Easily damaged or destroyed
- It has a plastic look to it.
5. Easy Living Goods Espresso Cups & Saucers
Think of your beloved favorite cup – and imagine how much smaller it would be if you shrunk it. The Easy Living Goods 3 Ounce Espresso Cups & Saucers will give you that impression.
To go with your cup, choose from a variety of colored saucers.
They have a nice heaviness and feel to them thanks to the porcelain used in their construction. They’re microwave and dishwasher-safe, too, for added convenience.
For those wishing to step up their hosting game, they are an excellent choice. Pulling out a classy pair of Easy Living cups will be a big hit with your guests.
Even though they aren’t the most luxurious, we believe they are a fantastic alternative for daily usage because of their familiar feel.
Pros
- Easy and fun to hold
- Plenty of color variants
Cons
- Fragile porcelain
- Design is not very elegant
6. Zenco Espresso Glass-Cups
The Zenco 4 oz. Espresso Coffee Glass Cups, like the JoyJolt and De’Longhi alternatives, have a lovely glass appearance. These cups, however, are not insulated, so shots cool down quickly after being placed in them.
As a result, we believe they are an excellent option for espresso purists – those who want to drink a shot of espresso immediately rather than waiting for it to cool.
Zenco has created them specifically to handle a Nespresso lungo shot. Because of this, any lengthier shot, or even a triple shot, will go right into the cup with no problem.
The broad handle is also another fantastic feature. Unlike other cups, the handles on them provide a firm grasp instead of being only cosmetic.
This is particularly beneficial for those who suffer from arthritis or other forms of movement impairment.
Pros
- Beautiful use of glass in the design
- Just the right size
Cons
- Cannot be stacked
- No insulation
7. Gibson Espresso Expression Cups
Gibson’s Espresso Expression cups are an excellent option if you’re searching for something stylish and aesthetically pleasing. These cups, which are made of stoneware, include terms like Espresso, Mocha, and Cappuccino printed on them. In addition to looking great, the cup rack that comes with it will be useful.
These cups are fun, but not everyone will like them, so we aren’t giving them a higher rating. In any case, at a low cost, this might be an excellent choice for anybody seeking a fast and simple option.
Although these mugs are safe to use in the microwave and dishwasher, some customers have had problems with them breaking. They should be kept with care since they chip quickly if they aren’t.
Pros
- Nice designs
- Includes cup and saucer stand
Cons
- Fragile
- Small in size compared to the rest
8. Loveramics Espresso Cups and Saucer Egg Style
Even though these cups claim to fulfill the Specialty Coffee Association’s espresso criteria, their size deviates from the recommended dosage amount for purists. It won’t bother many people, I’m sure.
Especially for people who like their espresso strong.
Because the cup is made of high-fired porcelain, it will keep your drinks hot for a long time. They can, however, tolerate the high heat of a dishwasher.
As a result, they’re an excellent long-term option. These are a little more modern in appearance, with an oval form and a weight of 2.7 oz (102 grams).
You could get them exclusively in black with a white border. The handle is a critical component. These cups’ broader mouths would suggest that they would be less sturdy. You won’t lose your grip with this handle since it’s designed to be pleasant and sturdy.
Pros
- The saucers complement the cups well.
- Contemporary appearance of the handle design
- Dishwasher-safe and without the use of lead
Cons
- Non-conventional
- Bigger than regular espresso cups
9. Sweese 403.002 Cappuccino Cups with Saucers
Sweese’s multi-colored cups are a good choice if you want something that looks stylish while still meeting your basic coffee-sipping needs.
Convenient size and decent volume capacity
In addition to having a beautiful design that is small and strong, these cups also hold a sufficient amount of liquid. These cups hold 6 ounces of your favorite espresso beverage.
Add a splash of color to your mornings.
Are you sick and tired of seeing the same white cups all over? Make your day brighter by drinking your espresso from a cup that’s a rainbow of colors.
An ideal gift for friends and family members
If you’re shopping for a loved one, these mugs will make a thoughtful birthday or holiday present. Because of their high-quality porcelain finish, ample capacity, and eye-catching hues, these mugs are ideal for giving to someone special.
Pros
- Fun cup designs
- Comes in a set of six
- Ideal for giving as a gift
- Good volume capacity (6 oz)
Cons
- The construction can become brittle over time
10. Bodum Espresso Cups
The Bodum Pavina double-walled espresso glass is a good alternative if you want to spice up your cookware collection with something unique.
A 3.5 oz espresso cup is a real treat if you’re an addict like me who can’t get enough of the stuff. Regardless of whether you want a single or double shot, these mugs are perfect for sipping espresso.
Solid borosilicate materials
The borosilicate finish on the double-walled walls makes these cups safer and more durable. Aside from their eye-catching appearance, these cups are built to endure because of their sturdy construction and durable design.
An additional feature is its silicone vent, which allows required pressure adjustments to take place while the cup is being used.
Safe for use in the dishwasher and microwave oven
In addition to being dishwasher safe, these insulated espresso cups may also be microwaved up to 350°F (176°C).
Pros
- 3.5-oz capacity
- Borosilicate glass is used for double-wall insulation
- 2 cups in every set
- Bright and vibrant colors
Cons
- Non-conventional manner of taking espresso
Guide to buying espresso cups and saucers
Now that you’ve seen our top choices, it’s time to consider what’s most important to you. Here are some helpful hints for selecting the finest espresso cups for your requirements:
Materials
Let’s talk about your demitasse. What’s the greatest material to use, and why?
1. Ceramic
As previously said, ceramics make excellent espresso cups. To sum it up:
- Ceramics, particularly porcelain, is excellent at retaining heat.
- Ceramic surfaces are often safe to use in the microwave and in the dishwasher for ease of cleaning.
- Ceramics come in a wide variety of patterns, hues, and styles.
- No strange tastes will be imparted to your brew if you use ceramics.
- Ceramic cups usually come with a saucer, which is convenient if you’re using sugar in your beverage.
2. Glass
The double-walled version of glass demitasses is the best option for espresso drinkers:
- The heat retention qualities of double-walled glass demitasses are excellent.
- Demitasses made of glass are stylish (in our opinion) and, along with it being microwaveable and easy to clean with a dishwasher.
- Your brew’s taste will not be harmed by using glassware.
3. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is an option, however:
- Unless you use double-walled cups, stainless steel doesn’t do a good job of keeping heat.
- Stainless steel should never be microwaved (unless you have a death wish)
- Dishwashers have no problem cleaning stainless steel.
- Poor-quality stainless steel cups may impart an unpleasant metallic flavor to your beverage.
- If you drop a piece of stainless steel on your tiled kitchen floor, it won’t shatter, and it won’t chip or fracture either.
What to avoid
A few materials should be avoided while purchasing espresso cups: paper, plastic, and metal.
- Cheap metallic mugs will burn your fingers and alter the flavor of your coffee.
- The same goes for plastic cups and paper cups.
Styrofoam cups provide an off-putting plastic flavor to your beverage. In addition, polystyrene (the material used to manufacture Styrofoam) has been linked to cancer and a host of other horrendous health issues. So, there’s no need to even discuss it.
Purpose
If you have a China closet, consider adding a classic espresso cup as a decorative element. Bring your pals out for coffee after a fun night out.
Do you really want to spend your money on something you’ll only use once in a blue moon?
The typical espresso cup has a capacity of just 2 ounces (ca. 76 grams). Espresso drinkers, on the whole, don’t linger over their cups of coffee all day. If you’re a purist, you’ll consume it when it still has the crema on the top.
As a result, you should balance your real requirements.
Having stated that, we may always make concessions in favor of appearances. There’s a lot to love about cups as little pieces of beauty and engineering in their own right.
Insulation
There are insulated and single-walled variants available. If you want to enjoy your shot for a longer amount of time, investing in some kind of insulation is highly recommended.
As well as keeping your espresso steaming hot, this prevents your fingers from coming into contact with the scorching surface.
If none of these double-walled solutions excite you, think about using a stoneware or ceramic cup instead (such as the Le Creuset). This thicker material will help to keep heat from escaping.
Space-saving features or stackability
Because kitchens are becoming more cramped, one of our key concerns is how to best use the available space. Choose cups with stackable bases to conserve space and simplify storage.
Size
Decide on the size of the cup you choose carefully. To enjoy a lungo, a cortado, or any similar drink, you’ll want to hunt for a cup that has a bit more capacity than the two shots these cups can hold.
Saucers and handles
For those who prefer to add sugar to their espresso or drown a biscotti while enjoying the coffee’s taste, saucers are a must-have while drinking coffee.
A bigger cup with a handle is required for those of you who want a lungo beverage. Because a bigger cup has a more even heat exchange and may become very hot much faster, it’s advised to choose one with a handle.
Safety
There are a variety of safety features available on espresso cups and coffee mugs. When shopping for a new mug, consider what safety features are important to you based on how you intend to use it.
Coffee drinkers who want to reheat their coffee all day may appreciate microwave-safe cups. Another crucial feature to look for when it comes to rapid cleaning is the ability to put your cup in the dishwasher without fear of it becoming damaged.
Color
Traditionalists will gravitate to a basic white porcelain cup for obvious reasons. In fact, if you go to a coffee shop, you’ll almost always get your espresso in this cup.
However, if you want a matching set of tableware for entertaining, you may choose between patterned or solid-colored demitasses. These cups often have a white inside to better show off the strength and color depth of the liquor within.
Drinks served in clear glass glasses look especially good when served cold in the summer when the weather is nice and sunny.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve sorted through the jumble of choices, you’re ready to choose the perfect espresso cup for your needs. We hope that with this little compilation we formulated, you were able to narrow down your choices for your ideal espresso cup.
The De’Longhi 2 oz. Double Walled Thermo Espresso Glasses take the top spot, while the Le Creuset 3.5 oz. Petite Espresso Mugs are our runner-up option.
Want something to put in your espresso cups? Look no further! Recent reviews and comparisons of Mexican coffee companies were conducted by our team. You may want to give it a go (just in case).
FAQs
What is the typical espresso concentration and volume?
Why are small cups used for serving espresso?
Do I really need a saucer?
How do you get stains out of a coffee mug?
Scrub the spots carefully with a brush to remove them. They’ll be gone in a few minutes at the most. Follow the standard rinsing and washing instructions.
How do you fix a cracked coffee mug?
Cook for approximately an hour on low heat after bringing to a mild boil. Before removing the cup from the saucepan, let the milk cool completely. Prior to usage, let the cup take one or two days to cure.
What is the difference between a demitasse and an espresso?
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Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.
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