Choosing the right cup size is not an insignificant detail – it affects the temperature, aroma, and the ratio of coffee to milk. It determines whether an espresso remains intense, a cappuccino harmonious, and an iced latte refreshing.
To help you find the right size for your coffee, we have put together this guide. It explains what to look for when buying an espresso and cappuccino cup and how it differs from a barista cup.
Espresso Cups: Size and Volume
A classic espresso contains 25–35 ml. An espresso cup should, however, hold more. About 55 to 90 ml. The extra space is needed so that the crema can breathe. And so that you can easily grip the cup without spilling anything.
For a single shot, a small espresso cup with a volume of 55 ml is sufficient. For the doppio – that is, the double espresso with approx. 50-60 ml of coffee – the cup needs a capacity of at least 80 ml.
However, the wall thickness is even more important than the volume. Thick-walled porcelain retains heat longer and keeps the espresso at temperature. Thick walls also provide a more pleasant drinking experience than sharp-edged, thin walls as soon as you pick up the small cup.
Cappuccino Cups: Size, Shape, and Volume
A classic cappuccino consists of espresso, frothed milk, and milk foam. Together, this makes about 150–180 ml. The cup should therefore hold at least 150 ml. Unlike an espresso cup, no extra space is needed here. The drink can end at the rim of the cup.
For a flat white or larger milk coffee variants, however, a large cappuccino cup with 200–250 ml is recommended. This gives more room for the milk foam.
When choosing your cup, also pay attention to the shape: A wider opening allows the milk foam to distribute more evenly. Tall, narrow cups are more suitable for latte macchiato, flat and wide ones for the classic cappuccino.
Barista Cappuccino Cups: What Is Used in Coffee Bars
In coffee bars, thick-walled porcelain cups without handles or with short handles are frequently used. The volume for cappuccino is 150 to 200 ml and for espresso 55 to 90 ml. Our espresso and cappuccino cups thus correspond to the classic barista cups.
We were also inspired by the traditional handleless designs – the demitasse cups – when it came to their shape. Holding them in both hands transfers the heat directly and enhances the drinking experience.
Overview: Which Cup for Which Coffee?
Espresso (25–35 ml): Cup 55–90 ml, small and thick-walled
Doppio (50–60 ml): Cup at least 80 ml, thick-walled
Cappuccino (approx. 150 ml): Cup 150–200 ml, wide opening
Flat White / Latte (approx. 200 ml): Cup 200–250 ml
Americano / Filter Coffee: Cappuccino cup or larger. If you are looking for a cup for several drinks, 180 ml offers the most flexibility.
What to Look for When Buying
Material: Porcelain is lightweight, heat-resistant, and smooth on the lips. It does not absorb odors – the coffee aroma remains unadulterated. Stoneware retains heat slightly longer, but is heavier.
Wall Thickness: Thick-walled espresso cups retain the temperature longer. The outer wall should still feel pleasant – not too hot.
Handleless: Handleless cups (demitasse cups) are the traditional form for espresso cups. This provides an authentic drinking experience, just like in Italy.
Dishwasher Safe: Check the care instructions when buying. Our espresso and cappuccino cups are dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe.
Espresso and Cappuccino Cups by Within Mood
Our cups are inspired by the traditional Italian barista cups – thick-walled, handleless, and in the optimal size.
Their Dimensions:
Espresso Cup: 6.9 cm diameter, 4.4 cm height, 55 ml Cappuccino Cup: 9.7 cm diameter, 5.8 cm height, 180 ml
You receive both cups in a set of 2 with matching saucers. You can choose from the colors: Either opt for timeless tones like White or Black. Or you can decide on a "Pop of Colour" with Baby Blue, Soft Pink, or Bright Orange.
Designed for your daily use, the espresso and cappuccino cups are dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.
Tip from our Within Mood Team: For iced cappuccino or latte, we prefer to reach for our Cold Cups. Our Cold Cups are handleless cups – made of glass instead of plastic, handcrafted. We were inspired by exactly these classic "to-go" cups for the shape. We are particularly proud of the iconic design for two reasons: The drinking glasses were the launch of Within Mood and brought us our first German Design Award.
