The Best Espresso Cups

The Best Espresso Cups

There are plenty of factors that go into a quality espresso, but one that can't be overlooked is the cup itself. Whether you're already an espresso enthusiast or just discovering this delightful drink, a good espresso cup can elevate your experience and heighten your enjoyment of these rich brews. We've researched the best espresso cups available to come up with this list of our favorites, so all you have to do is choose the one you like and get ready to savor every drop.

Sweese Porcelain Espresso Cups with Saucers and Metal Stand

The Total Package

Why get just espresso cups when you can get matching saucers, too?
Best Overall

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If you’re not the only one in your house who loves a solid espresso routine, then this Sweese set is just what you need. It comes with four cups, four saucers, and a metal stand to store them all in. Choose from a few different sizes and colors to best meet your needs. These cups are made of durable porcelain that is safe to put in your dishwasher, your oven, microwave, and freezer. They are chip-resistant, too, and claim to be more sturdy than stoneware. The whole set stacks into the stand, so minimal space is required for this new addition to your kitchen.

Pros:

  • Saves space
  • Stand keeps everything in one place
  • Made of durable porcelain

Cons:

  • Stand bends easily

Sweese Porcelain Espresso Cups with Saucers

Clean and Simple

These timeless espresso cups fit in anytime, anywhere.
Best Classic

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Feel elegant and classic when sipping your espresso out of these cups in the morning. They come with saucers to complete the experience and have you feeling like you’re enjoying your morning drink at a European cafe. These cups are made of professional-grade, lead-free porcelain and can be cleaned in the dishwasher. They are the perfect 2 oz. size for a shot of espresso and their thick walls help to keep the drink warm. These are the type of shots you sip instead of throw back. Included are six cups so you can invite others to enjoy some morning espresso with you.

Pros:

  • Classic style is great in any kitchen
  • Material is lead-free
  • Includes six cups and matching saucers

Cons:

  • Handles are on the small side

Sweese Assorted Espresso Cups with Saucers

Bright and Early

Espresso coupled with colored cups makes it easier to wake up.
Most Colorful

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Enjoy your espresso even more when it comes in brightly colored cups. The set of six comes in assorted colors so you get a fun mix. The 4 oz. size is perfect for enjoying a shot of espresso with a perfect dollop of cream on top. The matching saucers allow you to pair the cup with its same-colored saucer or mix and match for some added color. You can rely on the cups to keep your drink warm and the saucers to hold the cups securely. These make an excellent gift for the coffee lover in your life.

Pros:

  • Come in fun colors
  • 4 oz. size fits two shots of espresso
  • Thick porcelain keeps drinks warm

Cons:

  • Not as durable as we’d like

DeLonghi Double-Walled Thermo Espresso Glasses

Clear Quality

To modernize your morning drink, go for these glass expresso cups.
Best Glass

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DeLonghi is no stranger to the coffee world, and we are no stranger to the love of their products. These glasses are an addition to your morning routine that will elevate your experience. The double-wall thermal insulation helps to keep the coffee warm inside without burning your fingers on the outside. This means you can slowly sip and savor the tasty beverage inside. They also can double as a great shot glass for nighttime when you’re in need, so you get more bang for your buck with this set of two. When they’re ready to wash, put them in the dishwasher for an easy clean.

Pros:

  • Can double as shot glasses
  • Double-insulated to keep drinks warm and hands cool
  • Dishwasher-safe

Cons:

  • Water may leak between two layers of glass

Stoiva Double-Wall Insulated Espresso Glass Cups

Perfectly Petite

If you don’t have much counter or cupboard space in your kitchen, these espresso cups are perfect.
Best for Small Spaces

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Whether you have a small kitchen or just like to keep things tidy and save space, these Stoiva cups are what you’ve been looking for. The glass gives them a modern and sophisticated look, but when you don’t want them scattered around your home, simply wash and stack them. The handles are a great added feature to keep your hands clear of heat, though the double-wall insulation does a great job of that on its own. The size is perfect to use under nearly any espresso machine to catch the shots as they come out fresh and ready to enjoy.

Pros:

  • Blown using borosilicate glass
  • Each cup holds 5 oz.
  • Durable and can withstand the microwave and the dishwasher
  • Come in a gift box

Cons:

  • Though borosilicate is a durable type of glass, glass in general is prone to fracture

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the size of a regular shot of espresso?
The typical espresso shot is 30 ml, or about 1 oz. Thus, a 2 oz. espresso cup is a perfect size for your shot, with a little room at the top.

What is the proper name for an espresso cup?
Though the term “espresso cup” is commonly used, it is actually called a demitasse cup. “Demitasse” means “half-cup” in French, meaning it holds 2 – 4 ounces of liquid.

Why do you want saucers for your espresso cups?
Saucers are a great way to protect the table or whatever surface you set your drink on from the liquid’s heat. Also, saucers minimize mess and keep any spills or splashes within the saucer instead of on other surfaces.

Why is it important to keep an espresso shot warm?
The longer you let an espresso shot sit out, the more the shot changes in taste due to exterior elements and changes in temperature.