Samantha K Schmidt

I think even the snobbiest of coffee lovers can admit they love a quick and easy stop at Starbucks every now and then. Okay, maybe not. The coffee giant isn't for everyone, but those of us aspiring connoisseurs like to take the easy route from time to time. However, there are a few drinks that Starbucks is fooling you with. The Coffee Let's start from the beginning. Many people have stated that Starbucks burns their beans during roasting. Beans are temperamental and require a slow process of heating.  This seems to be the culprit when it comes to the bitterness of Starbucks coffee. If you are going to make a Starbucks run it's better to go with an espresso drink or a dessert-like frappucino (which there is no shame in!) Macchiato What Starbucks calls a macchiato is actually more akin to a latte. The typical macchiato is made with one shot espresso and a very small amount of steamed milk. Starbucks version is about 3 parts milk 1 part espresso. Now it seems that...

Notes are the different flavor dynamics present in a cup of coffee. They range in intensity depending on the brewing method, but a quick guide can help you identify the notes that you like and avoid the ones you don't. Here are just a few notes and how to recognize them. Earthy vs. Fruity Coffee notes are typically categorized by either earthy or fruity. Earthy notes range from subtle to intense. More intense notes tend to be present in darker roasts and have a richer flavor. Fruit notes represent most of the acidity in coffee. Notes are distinguished by their similarities to other foods and elements. However, just because you like fruit doesn't necessarily mean that you'll like a fruity note in your coffee since it contains more acidity. Ask for a description of the coffee when you go to a cafe. After a while you will be able to recognize the different notes and determine your preferences.

If you're a coffee snob you probably spend a large portion of your monthly budget on the delicious libation. If you're budget conscious like me you probably take advantage of every Starbucks reward upgrading to Trenta size (yea, it exists). There's an easy way to save money on your morning (or all day) coffee. Even if you aren't a coffee connoisseur there are a few brews that are easy to make at home you just need a few inexpensive tools. Coffee Grinder Grinding your beans at home is the best way to get the most flavorful, fresh coffee. Plus, you don't have to buy anything fancy. I got mine at Marshall's for under $10 and this one is available on Amazon for $14.99.    You can use the grounds in everything from your home brewing machine to any of the options below. Coffee Dripper Pour over coffee is just as popular as drip coffee these days and creates a much tastier cup. Plus, it's just as quick and easy. You'll need a coffee dripp...