Technically, any cup can serve as an espresso cup; however, the whole espresso or cappuccino experience would be diminished. It would no longer be an exquisitely prepared espresso; it would simply be a big cup with a small amount of strong coffee, nothing like an espresso served in a warmed demitasse.

The same can be said for serving cappuccino. A regular kitchen coffee mug not only detracts from the experience, in contrast to being too large for an espresso, coffee mugs aren’t big enough for cappuccinos and lattes.

A perfectly brewed cappuccino with its hot, frothed milk deserves to be served in a cappuccino mug to enjoy it to its fullest without having it spill over the sides.

Many espresso and cappuccino enthusiasts are choosing to purchase espresso cups and cappuccino mugs from stores that specialize in accessories for espresso makers.

These shops carry cappuccino mugs that are large enough to accommodate the various ingredients in a cappuccino. Consider that a basic cappuccino has at least a two ounce shot of espresso, several more ounces of steamed milk and is then topped by foamed milk and possibly sprinkles of cinnamon and it is easy to see why a larger mug is necessary.

The choices in cappuccino mugs are a little more varied than what is available for espresso cups. Cappuccino mugs can be tall and fluted which also makes it versatile enough to use for lattes or they can be shaped more like soup mugs.

Both espresso cups and cappuccino mugs should be made of tempered glass so they don’t crack under the heat and should also be easy to hold without burning the hands.

Most but not all espresso cups and cappuccino mugs will come with saucers as well. This is helpful for placing stirring implements and for catching accidental spills. Some don’t have sauces but do have a raised pedestal base to keep the hot cup from touching the table.

Espresso makers and coffee enthusiasts alike know that the best espresso cups, cappuccino mugs and coffee cups are made from glazed pottery that is very resistant to cracking. This keeps the mugs and cups from becoming permanently stained from the coffee seeping into the fractures.

Espresso cups are often included in the purchase of an espresso machine or are designed to fit in the warmer of espresso maker. When purchasing espresso cups it is important to make sure they will fit the warmer if it is going to be used.

Finally, in addition to holding heat well and being durable, when purchasing espresso cups or cappuccino mugs they should also be attractive. Most dinnerware patterns have matching espresso cups and possibly cappuccino mugs. There are many espresso cup manufacturers on the Internet to help make a choice.

-Sharon Chapman

Related posts:

1. Espresso Cups
2. Espresso Maker