Differences Between Americano, Black Coffee, Cold Brew, and Lungo

If you’ve ever walked into a café in Malaysia and wondered, “What is Americano?”, you’re not alone!

This popular coffee choice is a favourite among Malaysians who enjoy the boldness of espresso but prefer a smoother, less intense sip—perfect for our kopitiam culture and modern café scene.

Let’s dive deep into everything about the Americano—from its flavour profile and caffeine content to how it compares to black coffee and cold brew. This guide will help you master the art of Americano brewing and enjoyment. 

Key Takeaways 

• An Americano is a smooth and well-balanced coffee made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso, preserving the boldness of espresso while softening its intensity.
• Appreciate the history of your cup—Americano was created by American soldiers in WWII who diluted espresso for a milder taste.
• A well-made Americano offers a rich aroma with nutty and chocolatey undertones, a smooth yet bold taste, and a clean, lingering finish that makes it a favourite among black coffee lovers.
• A single-shot Americano contains ~75mg of caffeine, while a double-shot has ~150mg, making it a great energy boost.
• Experiment with different black coffees—Americano is smoother than black coffee, less sweet than cold brew, and milder than lungo.
• Use a moka pot or AeroPress as a great alternative for brewing a strong espresso-like base for an Americano.
• Adjust water-to-espresso ratio—120-150ml for balanced strength, 60-100ml for a bolder taste, or 180-200ml for a lighter coffee.
• Try classic, iced, flavoured, or alternative milk variations to find your perfect Americano style.
• Use filtered water, the right espresso grind, and proper pouring techniques to enhance taste and texture.
• Pair with pastries, experiment with flavours or make an espresso cocktail for a new coffee experience.

What is Americano? Understanding Its Unique Brew

An Americano is a coffee drink in which one or two espresso shots are diluted with hot water, creating a smooth yet flavourful beverage.

Unlike regular black coffee brewed through drip, pour-over, or French press methods, an Americano retains the bold, rich flavours of espresso while making it more approachable for those who prefer a milder taste.

In Malaysia, Americano has become a staple in artisanal cafés and modern coffee chains, enjoyed by professionals on the go, students studying late into the night, and anyone who loves a strong yet balanced coffee. 

It can be enjoyed hot or iced, making it a versatile option for Malaysia’s warm climate.

The Origins of Americano

The story of the Americano traces back to World War II, when American soldiers stationed in Italy and other parts of Europe encountered the region’s strong, concentrated espresso. 

Accustomed to the milder, drip-brewed coffee from back home, they found the intense flavour of espresso too overpowering. They started diluting espresso shots with hot water to make it more palatable, creating a smoother and more familiar coffee experience.

This modified espresso became known as the "Caffè Americano," which translates to "American coffee" in Italian. The name stuck, and as American-style coffee culture spread worldwide, the Americano became a staple in cafés across the globe, including Malaysia.

Today, the Americano is a go-to coffee choice for many Malaysians who enjoy its rich espresso base without the bitterness of a straight shot. 

Savouring Americano: A Journey Through Aroma, Taste & Texture 

An Americano delivers a distinct sensory experience that makes it stand out from other types of black coffee.

While it maintains espresso's bold essence, adding hot water smooths out the intensity, making it more balanced and enjoyable for a wider range of coffee drinkers.

Let’s break down its sensory profile into aroma, taste, and mouthfeel.

1. Aroma 

One of the first things you’ll notice when you bring an Americano close to your nose is its rich and inviting aroma.

The scent can vary depending on the coffee beans and roast level, but common aromatic notes include:

• Nutty and chocolatey (common in medium to dark roasts)
• Fruity and floral (found in lighter roasts)
• Earthy and woody (popular with Asian coffee beans like Sumatra)

Compared to drip coffee, the aroma of an Americano is often stronger and more concentrated due to its espresso base, yet the addition of hot water helps to open up and release more subtle fragrances.

2. Taste

The taste of an Americano is bold yet smooth, striking a balance between the richness of espresso and the lightness of black coffee. Some key flavour notes include:

• Bitterness – Comes from the espresso extraction, though it’s less sharp than a straight espresso shot.
• Sweetness – Naturally occurring sugars in coffee become more pronounced, especially in medium roasts.
• Acidity – Varies depending on the bean origin, with lighter roasts having more citrusy or fruity brightness.
• Complexity – The flavour evolves as the coffee cools, revealing different layers of taste.

The type of coffee beans and roast level will greatly impact the overall taste.

Darker roasts give an Americano a bold, chocolatey, and smoky profile, while lighter roasts bring out floral, citrusy, or berry-like notes.

3. Mouthfeel

The texture or "mouthfeel" of an Americano differs most from espresso and traditional black coffee.

• Lighter and thinner than espresso – The body becomes less concentrated since hot water is added.
• Smoother than black coffee – Unlike drip coffee, which can have a slightly dry or rough texture due to longer brewing, an Americano has a cleaner and silkier finish.
• Lingering aftertaste—The espresso base ensures that an Americano leaves a pleasant, lingering aftertaste, often with caramelised, nutty, or slightly smoky notes.

Love the rich aroma and smooth taste of an Americano? Discover the craftsmanship behind every cup at specialty coffee chain HWC Coffee and explore how we bring out the best in every brew.

How Much Caffeine Is in Your Americano?

 The caffeine content in an Americano primarily depends on the number of espresso shots used and the serving size.

According to Starbucks, these values are based on standard measurements, where each espresso shot contains about 75 mg of caffeine.

Understanding the caffeine content in your preferred coffee can help you manage your daily intake, especially if you're sensitive to caffeine or monitoring your consumption for health reasons.

For instance, while a standard Americano with a single shot contains about 75 mg of caffeine, opting for a double shot increases this to approximately 150 mg. In contrast, traditional Malaysian kopi, often made with Robusta beans, may offer a higher caffeine content per serving, though this can vary based on preparation methods and serving sizes.

Health Recommendations
Moderate caffeine consumption—up to 400 mg per day for most adults—is generally safe. This equates to about five single-shot Americanos or two to three cups of strong-brewed coffee. 

However, individual tolerance levels can vary, so listening to your body and adjusting your intake is essential.

By being mindful of the caffeine content in various coffee beverages, you can make informed choices that align with your health preferences and enjoy your coffee experience to the fullest.

6 Types of Coffee Lovers Who Will Love an Americano

The Americano is a versatile coffee that caters to a wide range of coffee drinkers.

Here’s a look at who would enjoy an Americano the most:

1. Coffee Lovers Who Enjoy Strong Yet Smooth Coffee 

If you appreciate the rich flavours of espresso but find it too intense, an Americano is the perfect compromise.

Adding hot water softens espresso's sharpness while maintaining its depth and complexity.

2. People Looking for a Low-Calorie Coffee Option 

Unlike lattes or cappuccinos, Americanos do not contain milk, cream, or sugar by default, making them a great option for those who enjoy pure coffee flavours without extra calories.

This makes it ideal for fitness enthusiasts or those on a calorie-conscious diet.

3. Malaysians Who Love Kopi O but Want a Modern Alternative 

If you enjoy the boldness of traditional kopi O but want a café-style espresso drink, an Americano is a great choice.

It delivers a similarly strong coffee kick but with espresso's refined, less gritty taste.

4. Busy Professionals Who Need a Steady Energy Boost

An Americano is less acidic than drip coffee and provides a steady caffeine release without the jitters that can come with stronger espresso shots or sugary coffee drinks.

It’s an excellent choice for office workers, entrepreneurs, and students pulling long hours.

5. Those Who Prefer Customisation in Their Coffee 

The Americano is a great base for personalisation—you can add milk, flavoured syrups, sweeteners, or even extra espresso shots to match your taste preference.

It’s a highly adaptable coffee that fits different moods and occasions.

6. People Who Enjoy Both Hot and Iced Coffee 

An Iced Americano is a fantastic alternative to sugary iced coffee drinks in Malaysia's warm climate.

It provides a refreshing, bold, and smooth coffee experience without added sweetness—perfect for cooling down while staying caffeinated.

Americano vs Other Coffee Types: Brewing Method, Taste Profile & Caffeine Level

The Americano is often compared to other types of black coffee, especially black coffee (kopi O), cold brew, and lungo.

While all are enjoyed for their rich coffee flavours, each differs in brewing method, taste, and caffeine content.

Let’s break down these differences:

Black Coffee vs Americano 

Due to the espresso base, Americano has a more refined, less bitter taste, while black coffee can have stronger, more acidic flavours, especially when brewed with Robusta beans, like in kopi O.

Cold Brew vs Americano 

Cold brew is steeped over time, extracting less acidity but more caffeine, while an Americano is made quickly and has a richer espresso taste.

Lungo vs Americano 

A lungo is brewed longer, increasing bitterness and intensity, whereas an Americano is diluted after brewing, resulting in a smoother drink.

Craving more than just an Americano? Explore a variety of expertly crafted coffee and specialty drinks, such as Coffee Latte and Iced Spanish Latte at HWC COFFEE, your go-to coffee place in Malaysia!

Making an Americano but No Espresso Machine? No Problem!

While an espresso machine is ideal, you can still enjoy this classic coffee at home without one. 

Here are four methods to make your Americano:

1. Moka Pot 

This is a classic option. Coarsely grind your coffee beans and follow the instructions for your Moka Pot. The resulting coffee will be strong and concentrated. Dilute it with hot water to your preferred strength.

2. French Press 

Grind your coffee beans slightly finer than you would for drip coffee. Use the French Press to brew a strong cup. Dilute the brewed coffee with hot water to achieve your desired Americano.

3. Aeropress

The Aeropress is designed for a concentrated brew. Follow the instructions for your specific Aeropress model. Dilute the resulting coffee with hot water to create your Americano.

4. Strong Brewed Coffee

This is the simplest method. Brew a strong cup of coffee using your preferred method (drip, pour-over, etc.). Make sure it's a robust brew, similar to the strength of "kopi O". Dilute this strong coffee with hot water to reach your desired Americano strength.

Finding the Perfect Water-to-Coffee Ratio for Your Americano

The key to a great Americano is finding the right balance of espresso strength and dilution. 

This depends on your personal preference, but here's the ideal water-to-espresso ratios:

Note: These are just guidelines. Feel free to experiment to find your perfect ratio.

3 Tips for Finding Your Perfect Ratio 

1. Start with a small amount of hot water: Gradually add more water until you reach your desired strength.
2. Taste as you go: This will help you fine-tune the ratio to your liking.
3. Keep a record: Note the amount of water you used for each batch. This will help you recreate your favourite ratio in the future.

The beauty of making Americano at home is the ability to customise it to your taste. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what you enjoy most!

7 Ways to Make an Americano (With Easy Recipes)

The Americano is one of the easiest espresso-based drinks, requiring only two ingredients: espresso and hot water.

How you prepare it can impact the flavour, strength, and overall experience.

Here are seven ways to make an Americano, from classic to creative variations.

1. Classic Americano (Hot Americano)

This method is best for those who enjoy a smooth, rich coffee with a balanced taste.

Ingredients 

• 1 shot of espresso (30ml) (Use a double shot for a stronger Americano!)
• 120-150ml hot water (adjust for desired strength)

Steps

1. Brew a fresh shot of espresso using an espresso machine.
2. Heat water to around 75-85°C (not boiling, to prevent bitterness).
3. Pour the hot water over the espresso (not the other way around) to retain the crema and balance the flavours.
4. Enjoy as is or adjust the ratio for a stronger or milder taste.

Tip: If you want a bolder flavour, use less water. For a milder taste, add more.

2. Iced Americano 

This is the perfect choice for those who need a refreshing alternative for Malaysia’s hot weather.

Ingredients 

• 1 shot of espresso (30ml) (or double shot for a stronger taste)
• 120-150ml cold water
• Ice cubes

Steps 

1. Brew a fresh espresso shot.
2. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
3. Pour cold water over the espresso (not the other way around to maintain a smoother taste!)
4. Stir and enjoy your bold yet refreshing Iced Americano.

Tip: Use filtered or mineral water for a cleaner taste.

3. Strong Americano (Less Water, More Intensity)

This version delivers an extra kick for those who love bold and concentrated coffee.

Ingredients

• 1 shot of espresso (30ml)
• 60-100ml hot water

Steps

1. Brew a strong espresso shot.
2. Heat less water than the usual Americano recipe.
3. Pour the hot water over the espresso for a stronger, more robust flavour.

Tip: This version is closer to a long black and is great for those who love a richer taste.

4. Smooth Americano (More Water, Milder Taste)

This smooth Americano is the way to go if you prefer a gentler, easy-to-drink coffee.

Ingredients 

• 1 shot of espresso (30ml)
• 180-200ml hot water

Steps 

1. Brew espresso.
2. Use more water than usual to dilute the strength.
3. Pour hot water over the espresso for a lighter, more delicate Americano.

Tip: This version is closer to a regular black coffee in strength.

5. Flavoured Americano Variations

For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness or unique flavours, these variations elevate the classic Americano.

• Vanilla Americano – Add ½ tsp vanilla extract for a smooth, aromatic twist.
• Honey Americano – Stir in 1 tsp honey for a natural sweetness.
• Cinnamon Americano – Add a sprinkle of cinnamon powder for warmth.
• Lemon Americano – Squeeze in a few drops of lemon juice for a citrusy zing.

Tip: Flavoured syrups work best in hot Americanos, while natural ingredients blend well in hot and iced versions.

6. Americano with Alternative Milk Options 

Adding milk alternatives can enhance the texture and taste of Americano for those who want a dairy-free or creamier version.

How to Customise 

• Add a splash of oat, almond, or soy milk for a slightly creamy taste.
• Try cold foam for a smooth, velvety texture.
• Use sweetened plant-based milk to enhance the flavour naturally.

Tip: This is not a traditional Americano but it’s a great way to personalise your drink without turning it into a latte.

7. Lungo (Alternative to Americano)

This is ideal for coffee lovers who prefer a stronger, richer coffee without adding water afterward.

Instead of adding hot water after brewing espresso (like an Americano), a lungo is made by extracting espresso with more water (about 60ml instead of 30ml).

This results in a stronger, slightly more bitter coffee than an Americano but smoother than a standard espresso.

Tip: A lungo is not diluted, so it has a more intense coffee taste with a longer-lasting aftertaste.

Brew the perfect espresso at home with HWC COFFEE! Get our premium coffee gift set to create a rich, barista-quality Americano anytime.

9 Tips for Making the Perfect Americano 

Crafting the perfect Americano is easy, and with a few expert tips, you can enhance its flavour, achieve the ideal balance, and enjoy a truly exceptional coffee experience.

Here’s how you can craft a smooth, rich, and flavourful Americano just like a barista!

1. Choose the Right Coffee Beans 

The quality of your espresso shot is the foundation of a great Americano.

• Best choice: Use high-quality Arabica beans for a smoother and more balanced flavour.
• Roast level: Medium to dark roasts work best as they provide a rich, full-bodied taste.
• Freshness matters: Use freshly roasted beans (ideally within 2-3 weeks of roasting) for the best flavour.

Pro Tip: Avoid stale or pre-ground coffee as it quickly loses its aroma and depth.

2. Use the Right Grind Size

The grind size affects how the espresso extracts and impacts the overall taste.

• Espresso grind: The coffee should be finely ground but not too powdery.
• Too fine = bitter taste: Over-extraction can produce a harsh or burnt flavour.
• Too coarse = weak flavour: Under-extraction can make the coffee taste sour or watery.

Pro Tip: If using a manual espresso machine, experiment with grind sizes to find the perfect balance.

3. Master the Espresso Shot 

A great Americano starts with a perfect espresso.

• Use the correct ratio: A single shot of espresso is 30ml, while a double shot is 60ml.
• Proper extraction time: Aim for 25-30 seconds for a well-balanced espresso.
• Use fresh water: The espresso should be brewed with filtered water to avoid impurities affecting the taste.

Pro Tip: If your espresso tastes too bitter, try a slightly coarser grind or reduce the extraction time.

4. Use the Right Water-to-Espresso Ratio 

The water ratio affects the strength and flavour balance of your Americano.

• For a stronger Americano: Use less water (about 60-90ml per shot).
• For a balanced Americano: Use 120-150ml of water per shot.
• For a lighter Americano: Use 180-200ml of water per shot.

Pro Tip: Start with a 1:2 espresso-to-water ratio and adjust based on your preference.

5. Use the Correct Water Temperature

The water temperature affects extraction and taste.

• Ideal range: 75-85°C (not boiling) to avoid burning the espresso.
• Too hot: Boiling water (above 90°C) can scorch the coffee and cause bitterness.
• Too cold: Lukewarm water may mute the flavours and make the Americano taste flat.

Pro Tip: If using a kettle, let the water cool for 30-60 seconds before pouring it over the espresso.

6. Pour Water the Right Way 

How you mix water with espresso impacts flavour balance and crema retention.

• For a classic Americano: Pour hot water over the espresso to preserve crema and maintain smoothness.
• For a long black-style Americano: Pour espresso over hot water to create a richer and more aromatic flavour.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a visually appealing crema, pour water gently to avoid breaking the top layer.

7. Experiment with Different Variations

Explore new flavours and customise your Americano by trying different variations, from iced to flavoured options, to find the perfect brew that suits your taste.

• Try an Iced Americano: Use cold water and ice cubes for a refreshing coffee.
• Adjust the water ratio: Play around with different strengths to find what suits you best.
• Add natural flavours: Try cinnamon, vanilla, or honey for a subtle twist.
• Use mineral or filtered water: This enhances the clarity of flavours.

Pro Tip: If making an Iced Americano, always pour the espresso over the ice last for a smoother blend.

8. Choose the Right Coffee Cup

Your coffee cup material can affect heat retention and taste.

• Ceramic cups: Retain heat well and enhance flavour.
• Glass cups: Great for aesthetic appeal but lose heat faster.
• Stainless steel cups: Best for keeping coffee warm for longer.

Pro Tip: To keep the Americano at an ideal temperature, preheat your coffee cup with warm water before pouring it.

9. Stir or Not? 

Some people stir their Americano, while others prefer to keep the layers intact.

• If you stir: You get a more balanced taste as the espresso and water blend evenly.
• If you don’t stir: You experience different flavour layers, with a stronger espresso taste at the bottom.

Pro Tip: Try both methods and see which one suits your preference!

Curious about the differences between a Caffe Latte and a Spanish Latte? Dive into the world of creamy, smooth coffee and discover which one suits your taste best.

5 Ways to Enjoy an Americano

Whether you like your Americano strong, mild, sweetened, or paired with food, there’s a perfect way to enjoy it for every mood and occasion.

1. Pair Your Americano with the Right Food

Pairing food with an Americano can enhance the coffee and the meal, creating a harmonious flavour experience.

• For a sweet pairing: Enjoy your Americano with pastries, dark chocolate, or butter cookies to balance its boldness with a hint of sweetness.
• For a savoury pairing: Try it with a croissant, scrambled eggs, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
• For a Malaysian twist: Pair an Americano with kaya toast, nasi lemak, or banana fritters for a delicious local fusion.

Tip: An Americano's light bitterness complements sweet and savoury flavours, making it a great all-day coffee.

 2. Enjoy It Hot or Iced

One of the best things about an Americano is that it tastes amazing both hot and iced, depending on the weather and your preference.

• Hot Americano: Perfect for cool mornings or a relaxing coffee break, bringing out the espresso’s rich aroma and depth.
• Iced Americano: A refreshing and energising option for Malaysia’s hot weather, with a crisp and bold flavour.

Tip: Use coffee ice cubes instead of regular ice to keep your Iced Americano from getting too diluted.

3. Customise with Flavours & Add-ons

If you enjoy variety, add different ingredients to give your Americano a unique twist.

• Sweeteners: Try honey, brown sugar, agave, or vanilla syrup for a naturally sweet touch.
• Citrus boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or orange zest for a bright, refreshing flavour.
• Spices: Enhance your coffee with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm, aromatic experience.
• Milk alternatives: While traditionally a black coffee, a splash of oat, almond, or soy milk can add creaminess without overpowering the espresso’s taste.

Tip: Flavoured Americanos taste best when the ingredients are stirred well to blend the flavours evenly.

4. Turn It into a Coffee Cocktail

If you love experimenting, try making a coffee-based cocktail using Americano as a base.

• Americano Negroni: Mix iced Americano, Campari, and sweet vermouth for a bold and bittersweet drink.
• Irish Americano: Add a shot of whiskey and a touch of brown sugar, then top with whipped cream for a warm, indulgent treat.
• Espresso Tonic: Combine Iced Americano with tonic water and a slice of lime for a crisp, bubbly coffee experience.

Tip: These drinks are great for social events, brunch, or an after-dinner coffee treat!

5. Try Different Americano Strengths

One of the simplest ways to enjoy an Americano differently is by adjusting its strength and water ratio.

• Stronger Americano: Use less water for a bolder, espresso-forward taste.
• Lighter Americano: Add more water for a milder, easy-drinking experience.
• Double Shot Americano: Use two espresso shots for extra caffeine and a richer profile.

Tip: The ideal espresso-to-water ratio depends on your taste preference—experiment with different strengths to find your perfect balance.

Experience the Bold & Smooth HWC COFFEE Americano 

If you're a coffee lover searching for the perfect balance of boldness and smoothness, the HWC COFFEE Americano Malaysia is a must-try.

1. Rich, Well-Balanced Flavour Profile 

The HWC COFFEE Americano is crafted to deliver a full-bodied, aromatic experience with distinct flavour notes of nuts, walnuts, and dark chocolate.

Unlike a typical black coffee, the espresso base in an Americano creates a smooth yet intense taste, making each sip satisfying and refined.

The blend used in HWC COFFEE’s Americano is expertly roasted to highlight the nutty and chocolatey undertones, ensuring a well-rounded and comforting coffee experience.

2. High-Quality Espresso as the Foundation 

A great Americano starts with a perfect shot of espresso, and at HWC COFFEE, precision and expertise go into every shot.

• Specialty coffee beans are used to achieve a rich and aromatic brew.
• Expert espresso extraction ensures balanced acidity and depth of flavour.
• Consistent quality in every cup, whether you order it hot or iced.

HWC COFFEE’s version maintains the intensity of espresso without overpowering bitterness, making it enjoyable for all coffee lovers.

3. Perfect for Any Coffee Occasion

One of the best things about an Americano is its versatility.

Whether you need a morning pick-me-up, an afternoon refreshment, or a caffeine boost before a late-night project, the HWC COFFEE Americano is an ideal choice.

No matter how you like your coffee—strong, smooth, hot, or iced—this Americano always delivers a consistent and satisfying taste.

4. Learn to Make the Perfect Americano at HWC COFFEE Academy

Want to take your coffee knowledge to the next level? HWC COFFEE offers barista training where you can learn to craft the perfect Americano and master the art of espresso extraction.

Espresso Workshop 

Learn how to brew the perfect espresso shot, the foundation of an Americano.

Gain hands-on experience in dosing, tamping, and extracting espresso with precision.

Pour Over Workshop

If you enjoy the science behind coffee brewing, this class teaches hand-brewing techniques using the V60 method, helping you appreciate coffee flavours even more.

If you love the HWC COFFEE Americano, these workshops will help you deepen your appreciation for coffee and recreate the experience at home.

5. Affordable Luxury in Every Cup

At just RM9.50, the HWC COFFEE Americano offers premium coffee quality at an affordable price.

You get speciality-grade coffee, expertly brewed espresso and a carefully balanced flavour profile—without breaking the bank.

You don’t have to spend a fortune for a high-quality Americano when you can enjoy barista-level craftsmanship at HWC COFFEE.

Conclusion

The Americano is a true coffee classic—bold, smooth, and versatile, offering the depth of espresso without the overwhelming intensity. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, strong or mellow, plain or flavoured, an Americano lets you enjoy the pure essence of coffee in a way that suits your taste. With its rich, well-balanced flavours and adaptability, it’s the perfect drink for anyone looking to explore the world of black coffee beyond a regular brew.

One of the best things about an Americano is how easily it can be customised and experimented with. You can tweak the water ratio for a stronger or milder taste, add natural flavours like honey, cinnamon, or vanilla, or even turn it into an exciting coffee cocktail.

If you're passionate about coffee, trying different variations and experimenting with recipes will help you discover new flavours and enjoy Americano in a fresh, exciting way.

For a top-tier Americano experience, HWC COFFEE Americano is a must-try. Priced affordably at RM9.50, it features delicious notes of nuts, walnuts, and dark chocolate, giving you a smooth yet bold coffee that’s crafted with high-quality espresso and expert brewing techniques. 

Visit an HWC Coffee outlet today or order online for coffee delivery to enjoy the ultimate Americano experience!