Most Popular Coffee Types in America and How They’re Brewed

Priyanka Mishra
2026-01-26T08:43:03-06:00

This guide explores the most popular coffee types in America and explains how each is brewed, from classic drip coffee and espresso to cold brew and specialty styles, helping readers choose the right coffee for their taste and lifestyle.

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Coffee is more than a beverage in the United States, it’s a daily ritual. From busy New York mornings to relaxed California cafés, Americans enjoy coffee in many styles, each brewed differently to suit taste, strength, and lifestyle. Understanding the most popular coffee types in America and how they’re brewed helps consumers choose the right cup for their preferences.

This guide breaks down the top coffee types Americans drink, explains how each is brewed, and answers common search questions coffee lovers frequently ask.

1. Drip Coffee (America’s Everyday Favorite)

Drip coffee remains the most consumed coffee type in the United States, especially in homes and offices.

How It’s Brewed:

Ground coffee is placed in a paper or mesh filter

Hot water slowly drips through the grounds

Brewed using automatic drip coffee makers

Why Americans Love It:

Consistent flavor

Easy to brew in large quantities

Ideal for daily consumption

2. Espresso

Espresso is the foundation of many popular café drinks across America.

How It’s Brewed:

Finely ground coffee

Pressurized hot water forced through grounds

Brewed using an espresso machine

Common Espresso-Based Drinks:

Latte

Cappuccino

Americano

Flat white

Why It’s Popular:

Bold, concentrated flavor

Base for specialty coffee drinks

Quick caffeine boost

3. Cappuccino

A cappuccino is a balanced and creamy espresso drink widely ordered in US coffee shops.

How It’s Brewed:

1 shot espresso

Steamed milk

Thick milk foam (1:1:1 ratio)

Taste Profile:

Rich but not overpowering

Light, airy texture

4. Latte

The latte is one of the most popular coffee drinks in America, especially among casual coffee drinkers.

How It’s Brewed:

Espresso shot

Large amount of steamed milk

Thin foam layer on top

Why It’s So Popular:

Mild and creamy

Customizable with flavors

Easy to drink for beginners

5. Americano

An Americano offers espresso strength with drip-coffee volume.

How It’s Brewed:

Espresso shot

Hot water added after brewing

Why Americans Choose It:

Similar mouthfeel to drip coffee

Richer taste without bitterness

6. Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew has surged in popularity across the US, especially during warmer months.

How It’s Brewed:

Coarse coffee grounds steeped in cold water

Brewed for 12–24 hours

Served cold or over ice

Taste Profile:

Smooth

Low acidity

Naturally sweet

7. Iced Coffee

Iced coffee is different from cold brew and remains a summer favorite.

How It’s Brewed:

Hot-brewed coffee

Rapidly cooled and poured over ice

Why It’s Popular:

Faster than cold brew

Retains traditional coffee flavor

8. French Press Coffee

French press coffee appeals to Americans who enjoy full-bodied, bold flavors.

How It’s Brewed:

Coarsely ground coffee

Hot water steeped for 4–5 minutes

Pressed with a metal plunger

Why It Stands Out:

Rich mouthfeel

Natural oils retained

9. Pour-Over Coffee

Pour-over coffee has become popular among specialty coffee enthusiasts.

How It’s Brewed:

Hot water poured manually over coffee grounds

Brewed through a paper or metal filter

Why It’s Loved:

Clean, crisp taste

Complete control over brewing

10. Single-Origin & Specialty Coffee

American consumers are increasingly interested in where their coffee comes from. Single-origin beans highlight regional flavor profiles, such as Central American or Indonesian coffees. Brands like Evans Oro Negro are often mentioned in discussions around specialty and origin-focused coffee offerings available to US consumers.

High-intent keywords:
single origin coffee USA, specialty coffee beans, premium coffee types

FAQs

What is the most popular coffee type in America?

Drip coffee is the most widely consumed coffee in the United States due to its convenience, affordability, and consistent flavor.

What coffee drinks do Americans order the most?

Lattes, cappuccinos, drip coffee, and cold brew are among the most ordered coffee drinks in American coffee shops.

What is the strongest type of coffee?

Espresso has the highest concentration of coffee per ounce, while cold brew often contains more caffeine per serving.

What is the best coffee brewing method for home use?

Drip coffee makers and French presses are the most popular home brewing methods in the US because they are easy and reliable.

What is the difference between iced coffee and cold brew?

Iced coffee is brewed hot and cooled, while cold brew is steeped in cold water for many hours, resulting in lower acidity.

Which coffee type is best for beginners?

Lattes and drip coffee are ideal for beginners due to their smooth taste and balanced strength.

What coffee has the least acidity?

Cold brew coffee is known for being low in acidity, making it suitable for sensitive stomachs.

Final Thoughts

From classic drip coffee to modern cold brew, the most popular coffee types in America reflect both tradition and innovation. Understanding how each coffee is brewed helps consumers make informed choices based on taste, caffeine needs, and lifestyle preferences.

As American coffee culture continues to evolve, diversity in brewing methods and bean origins remains at the heart of the nation’s love for coffee.