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Classic Coffee Drinks

 

# Long Black Coffee

 

Written by [Jay](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/authors/coffeejay/)

 

Category: [Classic Coffee Drinks](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/recipes/classic-coffee-drinks/)Tags: Long Black Hot Coffee Espresso No Milk

 

Active time: approximately 3 minutesYield: 1 serving

 

## Quick answer

Adding espresso over hot water can preserve more **crema** on the surface than pouring water into the shot afterward. The order also lets you control how gently **the espresso** enters the cup. Use a cup with enough **room** to prevent splashing, and pour the shot slowly.

## Key takeaways

- Adding espresso over hot water can preserve more crema on the surface than pouring water into the shot afterward.

- The listed recipe is one balance, not a universal café standard.

- Adding espresso over hot water can leave a visible crema layer on top.

 

![A cup of black coffee on a wooden table.](https://www.coffeejay.com/assets/editorial/black-coffee-on-wooden-table.avif)

A cup of black coffee on a wooden table.

## Ingredients

 

- 60 ml espresso
 
- 100 ml hot **water**.

 

## Method

- Pour the hot water into **a cup** first.

- Brew **the espresso** separately and **pour gently** over the water.

 

### Adjust the ratio to your cup

 

The listed **recipe** is one **balance**, not a universal café standard. If the drink tastes too concentrated, add a little more hot water next time; if the espresso disappears, use less. Keep the espresso recipe itself steady while you change the water amount.

 

**A long black** and an Americano both combine espresso with hot water, and names vary between cafés. **Compare** this water-first version with the [homemade Americano](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/recipes/classic-coffee-drinks/homemade-americano/), or try a smaller concentrated shot such as a [double **ristretto**](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/recipes/classic-coffee-drinks/double-ristretto/).

## Pouring order and crema

 

Adding **espresso** over hot water can leave a visible crema layer on top. Pour slowly so the shot does not splash or lose all of its surface **foam** at once. Crema changes quickly and is not a measure of flavor quality; taste the drink after pouring and decide whether the listed water amount suits you.

 

### Adjusting the serving

 

If **the long black** is too intense, add a little hot water and **taste again**. If it seems thin, use less water next time or check the espresso itself before changing **the recipe**. The water should be hot enough to make a warm drink, but not so hot that you need to wait a long time before tasting.

 

**A long black** and an Americano share espresso and water but use a different common **pouring** order. Compare this recipe with the [homemade Americano](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/recipes/classic-coffee-drinks/homemade-americano/).

**The crema** may look more intact when espresso is poured over water, but it will change as the drink rests. Use appearance as part of the presentation, not as a measure of quality. Taste the coffee at a comfortable **temperature** and adjust the water proportion on the next serving if you want a more concentrated or milder cup.

## Further reading

For background on [**espresso**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Espresso) and [milk](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milk), see Wikipedia.

[Back to Classic Coffee Drinks](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/recipes/classic-coffee-drinks/) 

Written by [Jay](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/authors/coffeejay/). [Read our editorial approach](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/editorial-policy/).

This recipe is an editorial starting formulation, not a documented CoffeeJay kitchen test. Adjust flavour and quantities to your ingredients and equipment.

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- [Classic Caffè Latte](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/recipes/classic-coffee-drinks/classic-caff-latte/)

- [Classic Cappuccino](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/recipes/classic-coffee-drinks/classic-cappuccino/)

- [Classic Cortado](https://www.coffeejay.com/en/learn/recipes/classic-coffee-drinks/classic-cortado/)