Enjoying a perfect shot of espresso is about more than just the coffee beans and the machine. The vessel you choose plays a crucial role in the experience. A great espresso cup maintains the ideal temperature, complements the aroma, and adds a touch of style to your coffee ritual. From modern insulated designs to classic ceramic sets, the right choice can enhance your daily brew.
This roundup features a selection of the best espresso cups and saucers available. We have considered materials, design, functionality, and overall value to help you find the perfect set for your home or as a thoughtful gift. Whether you prefer the visual appeal of double-walled glass or the professional feel of thick-walled stoneware, there is an option here to suit your taste.
Our Top Picks for Espresso Cups and Saucers
- JoyJolt Savor Double Wall Insulated Glasses (Set of 2)
- Farnsworth & Lloyd Silver Stainless Steel Double Wall Cups, Set of 4
- DeLonghi 3oz Espresso Double Wall Thermal Glasses, Set of 2
- HIC Kitchen Stackable Espresso Coffee Set, Fine Porcelain, 9-Piece
- Kitchables Espresso Cups Set of 4, 2.7oz Double Walled Glass
- Loveramics Coffee Cup Ceramic, 10 oz Latte Art Cup with Saucer
- ACF Ceramic Espresso Cups and Saucers Set of 6
- De’Longhi Lattissima Ceramic Cappuccino Cup and Saucer Set
JoyJolt Savor Double Wall Insulated Glasses Espresso Mugs (Set of 2)
The JoyJolt Savor glasses offer a modern and functional approach to espresso. Their unique double-wall borosilicate glass construction is designed for both performance and presentation. This design suspends the liquid within an inner wall, creating an engaging visual effect while keeping the exterior cool to the touch.
These 5.4-ounce mugs are handmade from heat and condensation-resistant glass, which is stronger and more durable than common glass. They effectively keep your espresso hot without transferring heat to your hands. The set arrives in an elegant printed box, making it an excellent choice for a gift.
Farnsworth & Lloyd Silver Stainless Steel Double Wall Espresso Cups, Set of 4
For a sleek and contemporary look, the Farnsworth & Lloyd stainless steel cups are a standout option. The double-wall construction provides excellent thermal insulation, ensuring your espresso stays at the perfect temperature from the first sip to the last. Their metallic finish adds a modern and sophisticated touch to any kitchen or coffee bar.
This set of four is ideal for households that frequently entertain guests or for those who appreciate a durable, long-lasting design. The stainless steel material is robust and resistant to breaking, offering a practical alternative to glass or ceramic cups.
DeLonghi 3oz Espresso Double Wall Thermal Glasses, Set of 2
From a renowned leader in espresso machines, these DeLonghi thermal glasses are designed to enhance your coffee experience. The elegant tulip shape is not only aesthetically pleasing but also helps to concentrate the aroma of the espresso, engaging your senses before you even take a sip.
Made from borosilicate glass, these 3-ounce glasses are versatile for espresso, macchiato, or cortado. The double-wall design provides thermal insulation for both hot and cold beverages, making them a practical and beautiful addition to your coffeeware collection.
HIC Kitchen Stackable Espresso Coffee Set, Fine Porcelain, 9-Piece
This HIC Kitchen set is the perfect solution for those who need a complete serving set that saves space. The 9-piece set includes four 4-ounce fine porcelain cups, four matching saucers, and a sleek chrome storage stand. The pieces are designed to stack neatly inside the stand for compact storage.
Made from lead-free and cadmium-free porcelain, this set is both safe and classic. Its stackable design makes it easy to transport and store, ideal for buffets, small kitchens, or outdoor entertaining. It offers a traditional espresso experience with modern convenience.
Kitchables Espresso Cups Set of 4, 2.7oz Double Walled Glass
Kitchables offers a set of four double-walled glasses that balance durability and style. Crafted from Grade AA borosilicate glass, these 2.7-ounce cups are built to resist scratches and last for years. The double-wall insulation means you can handle them comfortably even when filled with a freshly brewed, piping hot espresso.
These cups are versatile for both hot and cold beverages, and their clear glass design allows you to appreciate the rich color of your coffee. The ergonomic handles provide a secure and comfortable grip, completing a user-friendly design.
Loveramics Coffee Cup Ceramic, 10 oz Latte Art Cup with Saucer
For the serious coffee enthusiast or aspiring barista, Loveramics cups are a professional-grade choice. These thick-walled porcelain cups are the preferred vessel in world latte art championships, designed to maintain the perfect coffee temperature and provide an ideal canvas for milk-based drinks.
Each cup in the Potters Colours collection is hand-dipped in reactive glazes, resulting in unique variations and a distinctive charm. Fired at a very high temperature, they are exceptionally durable, scratch-resistant, and safe for microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher use.
ACF Ceramic Espresso Cups and Saucers Set of 6
This ACF set provides excellent value with six classic ceramic cups and saucers. It is an ideal solution for those who regularly host guests or have a large household. The simple, timeless design ensures it will fit in with any existing kitchen decor.
Made from quality ceramic, these cups are designed for daily use. The set offers functionality and style, making it easy to serve multiple people at once without compromising on the traditional espresso cup experience.
De’Longhi Lattissima Ceramic Cappuccino Cup and Saucer Set
Complementing their line of espresso machines, De’Longhi’s Lattissima set brings a touch of Italian cafe style to your home. The ceramic construction provides a classic feel and excellent heat retention properties for your cappuccino or latte.
This set is designed to match the quality and aesthetic of De’Longhi appliances, creating a cohesive coffee station. The included saucers add a formal touch, making your morning routine feel a bit more special.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Espresso Cups and Saucers
Choosing the right set of espresso cups and saucers is more than just picking a pretty design. It directly impacts the temperature, aroma, and overall experience of your coffee. I’ve learned that the best cup for my morning shot isn’t always the most decorative one on the shelf. Let’s talk about what I look for when I’m selecting a new set.
First, consider the material. Porcelain and bone china are my top choices because they are thin, which allows heat to transfer quickly, cooling the espresso to a drinkable temperature without sucking all the warmth out too fast. They also feel refined and are typically dishwasher safe. Stoneware is another good option; it’s a bit heavier and often has a more rustic, handcrafted feel. I avoid thick, heavy mugs for espresso because they tend to keep the coffee too hot for too long, which can negatively affect the flavor.
Next, pay close attention to the size and shape. A classic espresso cup holds between 2 and 3 ounces. This isn’t arbitrary; it’s designed to be the perfect vessel for a single shot, with a little room for crema—the flavorful, frothy layer on top. The shape of the cup matters, too. I prefer cups with a narrower opening, as they help concentrate the coffee’s complex aromas right under my nose, making that first smell part of the ritual. A wide, shallow cup will let those precious aromas escape too quickly.
The handle is a small detail with a big impact. I always check that my finger fits comfortably through the loop. Some modern designs have tiny or non-existent handles, which look cool but can be awkward to hold if the cup is hot. The saucer is just as important. It’s not just for catching drips; it’s a place for a spoon, a small cookie, and it makes carrying the cup much easier and safer.
Finally, think about your personal style and how the set will fit into your daily life. Do you want a minimalist white set that goes with everything, or a brightly colored pattern that brings you joy? If you have a busy household, durability and dishwasher safety are key. If you mostly enjoy espresso alone, a delicate, hand-painted set might be a special treat. For me, finding the right set of espresso cups and saucers is about balancing aesthetics with function to enhance my daily coffee routine.
FAQ
What is the standard size for an espresso cup?
The standard size for a traditional espresso cup, or demitasse, is between 2 and 3 ounces (60 to 90 ml). This size is perfect for serving a single shot of espresso. It’s designed to be small so the coffee stays warm and the crema remains intact. If you often drink double shots or prefer a latte macchiato, you might want to look for a slightly larger cup, around 4 to 5 ounces.
Why are espresso cups so small?
Espresso cups are small by design because a shot of espresso is a concentrated form of coffee, typically only about 1 ounce. The small volume ensures the drink is consumed quickly while it’s still at its peak flavor and temperature. A larger cup would allow the espresso to cool too rapidly and lose its signature crema and intense aroma. The small size is a feature, not a bug!
What’s the best material for an espresso cup?
In my experience, the best materials are porcelain and bone china. They are excellent at retaining heat without being too thick, which allows the espresso to cool to a pleasant drinking temperature quickly. They also feel great in your hand and are usually easy to clean. Stoneware is a good, durable alternative, while glass cups are fun for seeing the layers of your drink but can cool the coffee a bit faster.
Do I really need a saucer?
While you don’t absolutely need one, a saucer is highly recommended. It serves a practical purpose: it catches any drips from the cup, provides a place to rest your spoon, and can hold a small sugar cube or biscuit. From a safety standpoint, it also makes carrying a hot cup much more stable. Aesthetically, a matching saucer completes the look and makes the experience feel more complete.
Can I use a regular coffee mug for espresso?
You can, but I wouldn’t recommend it for a pure espresso. A large coffee mug will cause the small volume of espresso to cool down too quickly, diminishing the aroma and flavor. The experience is just not the same. However, if you’re making an Americano or a latte, a larger mug is perfectly suitable. For a true espresso, the right espresso cups and saucers make a noticeable difference.
Are all espresso cups dishwasher safe?
Not all. While many porcelain and stoneware cups are dishwasher safe, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s care instructions. Hand-painted designs, cups with metallic accents, or some fine bone china may be hand-wash only to preserve their finish and prevent cracking. I always play it safe and hand-wash my favorite, more delicate sets.