Dirty Coffee Recipe: How To Make Dirty Coffee Like A Pro

Learn a simple dirty coffee recipe and technique.

In essence, dirty coffee is an espresso shot poured over chilled milk in a glass, but the details matter—the glass, espresso, and pouring technique.

This video is a step-by-step guide to making dirty coffee for any barista.

Ingredients:

• Espresso: 18g of coffee grounds (for 45g of extracted espresso)
• Milk: 130g of chilled milk (use full-fat milk, sweetened condensed milk, or a partially condensed milk like Milbo)

Tools:

• Glass (150-200ml capacity, preferably chilled)
• Espresso machine
• Scale (optional, for precision)

Steps:

1. Chill the Glass
   • Place your glass in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes to cool it down. Avoid using warm glasses, as they can affect the drink’s temperature contrast.
2. Prepare the Milk
   • Pour 130g of chilled milk into the cooled glass.
   • Use a milk type that can hold the espresso layer for a better visual and taste experience.
3. Extract the Espresso
   • Measure 18g of coffee grounds and prepare a 45g espresso shot.
   • Split the shot into two smaller shots if needed.
4. Pour the Espresso Over Milk
   • Option 1 (Direct from Spouts):
     • Tilt the glass slightly so the milk almost touches the espresso machine’s spouts.
     • Begin extraction and slowly tilt the glass back upright as the espresso pours in.
     • This helps maintain distinct layers of milk and espresso.
   • Option 2 (Over a Spoon):
     • Place a spoon upside down just above the milk surface.
     • Slowly pour the espresso over the spoon to create a defined top layer.
5. Observe and Enjoy
   • Let the drink settle for a few seconds to see the distinct layers form.
   • Take a moment to appreciate its visual appeal—take a photo if you like!
6. Serve
   • Dirty coffee is meant to be enjoyed as is—no stirring, straws, or ice.
   • Sip directly from the glass to experience the interplay of temperatures and flavors.

Pro Tips:

• Use a narrower glass for a stronger coffee flavor and sharper temperature contrast.
• A wider glass offers a milkier taste and less temperature variation.
• Naturally processed or fermented coffee beans enhance the flavor profile.

Enjoy your coffee!