Long Black Coffee Recipe: How to Make a Long Black

The long black is an espresso drink consisting of two shots of espresso diluted with hot water. If the flat white coffee is Australia and New Zealand's answer to the Italian cappuccino, the long black is their take on the caffè Americano. In coffee shops in Australia and New Zealand, a shot of espresso is known as a short black, so a long black is a natural extension of this term.

The long black and the Americano are similar in theory, but in practice, there are a few differences between the two espresso coffee drinks.

• Number of shots: Traditionally, baristas make the Americano with a single shot of espresso, while a long black is made with a double shot of espresso.
• Serving vessel: An Americano is served in a larger cup—such as an eight-ounce mug—while a long black is typically served in a smaller cup, such as a six-ounce cappuccino cup. As a result, the Americano typically contains more water than a long black. If you're looking for a smaller cup of coffee with a more intense flavor, go for the long black.
• Method: The long black is made by adding espresso to hot water, whereas the Americano is made by adding hot water to espresso. Adding the espresso last allows the crema to remain at the top of the beverage.