Espresso cups - often called demitasses - are compact porcelain or glass cups designed to retain heat and preserve espresso crema. As specialty coffee and home espresso machines have grown in the U.S., these cups have become more common for functional and aesthetic reasons. Choose a 2-3 ounce demitasse for straight espresso; larger cups suit lungo or milk drinks.

A small cup with a clear purpose

The espresso cup, often called a demitasse, is the compact vessel designed specifically for serving espresso. Unlike the larger coffee mug or teacup, its size and shape help preserve the espresso's crema and concentrate aroma. As specialty coffee culture expanded in the U.S. over the past two decades, the demitasse moved from European cafés into American coffeehouses and homes.

What makes an espresso cup different

Espresso cups are small and sturdy. Typical single-espresso cups hold roughly 2-3 ounces (about 60-90 ml) for single or double shots, depending on style. They usually have:
  • Thick walls or dense porcelain to retain heat.
  • A small handle sized for one or two fingers.
  • A tapered or rounded interior that keeps espresso crema intact.
There are variations: true demitasses are compact porcelain cups used for straight espresso. Larger "espresso mugs" or small latte cups exist for lungo, Americano, or those who prefer more liquid.

Materials and modern styles

Porcelain and bone china remain popular because they balance heat retention and flavor neutrality. Glass and double-walled glass have grown in popularity for visual appeal - baristas often serve espresso in clear cups to showcase crema. Stainless steel and insulated travel demitasses meet needs for portability and temperature control.

Design trends reflect both function and aesthetics. Minimal, handcrafted ceramics and vintage demitasses appear alongside precision-made sets from specialty coffee brands. Online retail and coffee equipment shops make a wide range of options accessible to home baristas.

How it compares to coffee and tea cups

Where a standard coffee cup or mug emphasizes volume and cooling surface area, the espresso cup emphasizes temperature and aroma concentration. A cappuccino cup is larger still - designed to hold espresso plus steamed milk and foam.

Using the right cup matters. A too-large vessel lets crema dissipate and cools espresso rapidly. A thick-walled demitasse keeps the espresso hot long enough for immediate tasting.

Why Americans increasingly choose demitasses

Two practical shifts drove adoption: the rise of at-home espresso machines and the specialty coffee movement that values proper extraction and presentation. Many coffee shops and home baristas now consider cup size and material as part of the brewing process. Beyond function, the demitasse also serves as a design object - small, deliberate, and visually distinct on a saucer or serving tray.

Practical tips

For straight espresso, choose a 2-3 ounce porcelain demitasse. For visually showing crema, use a clear double-walled glass. If you drink lungo or Americano, pick a larger cup or small mug.

The espresso cup is a small change with a clear purpose: preserving temperature, aroma, and presentation. Its growing presence in the U.S. reflects both practical brewing concerns and evolving coffee culture.

FAQs about Espresso Cup

What size is a standard espresso cup?
A standard demitasse typically holds about 2-3 ounces (roughly 60-90 ml), suitable for single or double espresso shots depending on how you pull them.
Why are espresso cups thick-walled?
Thick walls - usually porcelain or bone china - help retain heat so espresso stays at tasting temperature and the crema lasts through the first sips.
Can I use a regular coffee mug for espresso?
You can, but a large mug cools espresso faster and disperses crema and aroma. A small demitasse better preserves the intended taste and presentation.
What material is best for espresso cups?
Porcelain or bone china are classic choices for heat retention and neutrality. Double-walled glass is popular for presentation; stainless steel works for travel and insulation.
Is an espresso cup the same as a cappuccino cup?
No. Cappuccino cups are larger (typically 5-7 ounces) to accommodate espresso plus steamed milk and foam, while demitasses are sized for straight espresso.

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