Best Mug Size for Espresso-Based Drinks

Espresso, itself, may be small in size, but it’s the foundation of some of the world’s most beloved coffee creations, latte, cappuccino, flat white, cortado, and more. Each drink tells a different story with its ratio of espresso to milk, foam, or water. But one thing that’s often overlooked in that equation is the mug. Yes, the mug matters. The size, shape, and even the material of your mug directly impact aroma, temperature retention, and the overall drinking experience.

In this blog, we’ll explore the best mug sizes for espresso-based drinks based on barista standards and practical, real-world usage. You’ll also learn why CURVD mugs are designed to elevate every sip, whether you're serving customers at a busy café or sipping mindfully at home.

Standard Sizes for Espresso-Based Drinks

Let’s start by understanding what “standard” really means in the world of espresso. While recipes may vary slightly, here’s what most professional baristas and coffee associations agree on:

Drink	Espresso (ml)	Milk/Water (ml)	Total Volume (ml)	Common Mug Size
Single Espresso	25–30 ml	—	~30 ml	2–3 oz
Double Espresso	50–60 ml	—	~60 ml	3–4 oz
Macchiato	25–30 ml	15–20 ml (foam)	~50 ml	3 oz
Cortado	30 ml	30 ml (steamed milk)	~60 ml	4 oz
Flat White	30–60 ml	120–140 ml	~180 ml	5–6 oz
Cappuccino	30–60 ml	150–180 ml (milk & foam)	~210 ml	6–7 oz
Latte	30–60 ml	200–300 ml	~240–360 ml	8–12 oz
Americano	30–60 ml	90–120 ml (water)	~150–180 ml	6–8 oz

What this table reveals is that most espresso-based drinks fall within a 2-oz to 12-oz range. For that reason, your ideal mug for espresso-based drinks must land somewhere in this sweet spot—not too small, not oversized, but just right.

Why CURVD Offers Two Mug Sizes—And Why They’re All You Need

At CURVD, we’ve intentionally designed two mug sizes 12 oz and 18 oz to cover the full spectrum of espresso-based drinks while also enhancing your everyday coffee rituals.

The 12 oz CURVD Mug
Ideal for cappuccinos, flat whites, Americanos, and lattes with a balanced milk-to-espresso ratio. It’s also a top choice for cortados and double espressos if you prefer more breathing room or added milk.
The 18 oz CURVD Mug
Made for indulgent lattes, seasonal specialties, extra-foamy cappuccinos, or those who simply want more. It’s a favorite in cafés that serve modern espresso drinks with unique twists, like iced lattes, dirty chai, or signature café blends.

Instead of overwhelming you with options, we created two thoughtfully sized mugs that cover all espresso-based drinks while staying true to ergonomic coffee mugs designed for inclusive comfort.

The Role of Shape and Aroma in Espresso Enjoyment

Mug shape influences everything from heat retention to the way coffee aromas are released. CURVD mugs are specifically designed with wide openings and a subtle inward curve at the lip, allowing the coffee’s aroma to concentrate and gently reach your senses. This makes them an excellent choice for those who understand how mug shape affects coffee aroma.

Safe, Sustainable, and Chemical-Free by Design

At CURVD, we only use lead-free, cadmium-free, and non-toxic ceramic, a choice we made with health, sustainability, and flavor in mind. Ceramic offers the best heat preservation and a clean, neutral surface that doesn’t affect coffee’s natural flavor profile. If you're curious about how this impacts taste, we explain more in our blog on chemical-free mugs.

We also use decal printing for customization, which ensures that the mug design stays intact, even after repeated dishwasher and microwave use. It's perfect for bulk orders that need branding without compromising safety or aesthetic appeal.

Thoughtful Design for Every Hand

CURVD mugs aren't just beautiful to look at, they're designed to feel right in every hand.

Their ergonomic shape supports a natural grip, which is particularly beneficial for anyone dealing with joint pain or limited dexterity. If you're exploring inclusive designs, CURVD mugs double as the best mug for arthritic hands or even a thoughtful ergonomic mug for the elderly.

They’re also incredibly comfortable as a ceramic mug for large hands, ensuring everyone can hold their cup with ease and stability.

Which CURVD Mug Fits Which Drink?

CURVD Mug	Ideal For	Why It Works
12 oz	Double Espresso, Cortado, Cappuccino, Flat White, Americano	Compact, comfortable, optimized for heat and aroma
18 oz	Large Latte, Flavored Lattes, Iced, or Specialty Drinks	More space, great for foamy textures or chilled options

Final Sip: Get the Right Mug, Brew the Right Vibe

Espresso drinks are an art. At CURVD, we believe the mug should match the experience, not overpower it. Our 12 oz and 18 oz ceramic mugs strike the perfect balance between functionality, comfort, and style. Whether you’re serving guests in a coffee shop or enjoying your morning ritual, CURVD mugs are made to elevate the moment.

Explore our full collection and find the mug that fits your espresso ritual.

☕ Just one for you? Shop our signature mugs

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are CURVD mugs microwave and dishwasher-safe?

Yes, both sizes are safe for microwave and dishwasher use, thanks to our premium ceramic and decal-printing process.

Do CURVD mugs retain heat well?

Absolutely. Our mugs are among the best heat-retaining ceramic mugs on the market, making them ideal for coffee shops and slow drinkers alike.

Are CURVD mugs customizable for cafés or events?

Yes. Decal printing allows your logo or custom art to remain vibrant and dishwasher-resistant—perfect for café branding or gift sets.

Are CURVD mugs inclusive for people with physical limitations?

Yes. Whether you’re buying a mug for arthritic hands, a mug for the elderly, or anyone with grip challenges, CURVD’s ergonomic handle makes it easy and safe to use.