What Are the Most Popular Coffee Drinks?

Coffee culture has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of daily life across Europe, particularly in the UK and the Netherlands. With an increasing number of specialty coffee shops, roasteries, and home brewing enthusiasts, the variety of coffee drinks available has expanded dramatically over the past decade. This comprehensive guide explores the most popular coffee drinks in these markets, revealing consumer preferences, emerging trends, and the cultural significance of various coffee preparations. 

Why Most Popular Coffee Drinks in the UK and Netherlands 

Coffee’s rise in the UK and Netherlands is undeniable. In the UK, the British Coffee Association reports 98 million cups consumed daily in 2025, up from 70 million in 2008. Meanwhile, the Netherlands boasts the world’s highest per-capita coffee consumption—8.4 kg annually—according to World Population Review. So, what drives this love for the bean, and which are the most popular coffee drinks fueling it? 

Coffee Consumption Patterns 

The UK and the Netherlands represent two distinct yet evolving coffee cultures in Europe. The average Dutch consumer drinks approximately 2.5 cups of coffee per day, placing the Netherlands among the top coffee-consuming nations globally. In comparison, UK consumers drink around 2 cups daily, with consumption steadily increasing by 4-5% annually over the past five years. 

According to recent market research, the UK coffee shop market is valued at over £10 billion, while the Netherlands’ coffee industry contributes approximately €2.1 billion to its economy. Both markets have seen significant shifts from traditional coffee preparations toward specialty and artisanal options. 

Cultural Coffee Traditions 

Coffee traditions in these countries reflect their unique histories: 

UK Coffee Culture: Historically a tea-drinking nation, the UK has undergone a coffee renaissance since the late 1990s. The explosion of coffee chains followed by independent artisanal cafés has transformed urban landscapes, with London now recognized as one of Europe’s specialty coffee capitals. 

Dutch Coffee Traditions: The Netherlands has a long-standing relationship with coffee dating back to the 17th century through the Dutch East India Company. The Dutch traditionally prefer longer coffee moments, with “koffietijd” (coffee time) being an important social ritual that often includes sweet treats like stroopwafels. 

The Most Popular Coffee Drinks in the UK 

The UK coffee scene has evolved dramatically, with several key preparations dominating the market. 

Latte: The Undisputed Champion 

The latte remains the UK’s most popular coffee drink, accounting for approximately 38% of all coffee shop orders. This milk-forward preparation appeals to a broad audience with its: 

• Smooth, creamy texture 

• Mild coffee flavor balanced by steamed milk 

• Versatility with flavor additions 

• Artistic presentation possibilities through latte art 

UK consumers typically prefer lattes in larger formats (12-16oz) compared to continental European standards, often with a double shot of espresso as the base. Recent innovations include oat milk lattes, which have seen a 425% increase in orders since 2019. 

Cappuccino: The Classic Choice 

The cappuccino holds second place in UK popularity, representing about 24% of coffee shop orders. British consumers appreciate this Italian classic for its: 

• The perfect balance of espresso, steamed milk, and foam 

• Rich flavor with a lighter mouthfeel than a latte 

• Traditional presentation with chocolate powder dusting 

UK cappuccinos tend to follow the Italian tradition more closely than lattes, typically served in 6-8oz cups. However, many UK establishments offer larger variants to cater to consumer preferences for bigger portion sizes. 

Americano: The Growing Favorite 

The Americano has surged in popularity, now accounting for 20% of UK coffee orders and growing at 7% annually. This preparation has gained favor for its: 

• Bold coffee flavor without milk dilution 

• Customizability (can be enjoyed in black or with various additions) 

• Lower calorie content when consumed without additions 

• Preferred choice for afternoon coffee consumption 

The rise in americano consumption coincides with increasing coffee connoisseurship, as consumers develop an appreciation for the nuanced flavors of single-origin beans that are often more discernible in milk-free preparations. 

Flat White: The Australian Import 

The flat white has firmly established itself in the UK market, representing 15% of coffee shop orders. This relatively recent addition to the UK coffee scene offers: 

• Stronger coffee flavor than a latte with a similar creamy texture 

• Higher coffee-to-milk ratio 

• Velvety microfoam rather than stiff froth 

• Typically served in smaller 6-8oz cups 

The flat white has become particularly popular among 25-35-year-old professionals, with consumption highest in urban centers. Many attribute its popularity to the perfect balance of indulgence and coffee flavor intensity. 

The Most Popular Coffee Drinks in the Netherlands 

Dutch coffee preferences show both similarities and distinct differences from their British counterparts. 

Koffie Verkeerd: The Dutch Twist on Café au Lait 

Koffie verkeerd (literally “wrong coffee” due to its high milk content) is uniquely Dutch and accounts for approximately 32% of coffee orders in the Netherlands. This preparation features: 

• Nearly equal parts coffee and hot milk 

• Milder flavor profile than many other coffee drinks 

• Served in a large cup or bowl without foam 

• Often accompanied by Dutch cookies or small treats 

This preparation reflects the Dutch preference for longer coffee moments and larger serving sizes when compared to Italian-style coffee preparations. 

Filter Coffee: Enduring Popularity 

Unlike many European markets where espresso-based drinks dominate, filter coffee (koffie) maintains strong popularity in the Netherlands, accounting for 28% of all coffee consumed. Dutch filter coffee is characterized by: 

• Medium-light roast profiles 

• Larger serving sizes than espresso-based drinks 

• Often consumed throughout the day, particularly at breakfast 

• Frequently served with a small cookie or treat 

The enduring popularity of filter coffee in the Netherlands contrasts with the UK, where this preparation represents only about 10% of coffee consumption. 

Espresso: Growing Appreciation 

Pure espresso consumption in the Netherlands has grown substantially, now representing 18% of coffee orders and increasing at 9% annually. This growth reflects: 

• Increasing coffee connoisseurship 

• Influence of Italian coffee culture 

• Appreciation for the intensity and complexity of well-prepared espresso 

• The growing number of specialty coffee shops with high-quality espresso offerings 

Dutch espresso tends to use medium-dark roast profiles compared to the often darker Italian tradition, resulting in more pronounced acidity and fruit notes. 

Cappuccino: The Familiar Favorite 

Cappuccinos account for approximately 22% of Dutch coffee shop orders, with preparation typically more closely following Italian traditions than in the UK: 

• Smaller serving sizes (5-6oz) 

• Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam 

• Less frequent addition of flavorings or modifications 

• Often consumed mid-morning rather than as a breakfast drink 

The Dutch cappuccino consumption peaks between 10 am and noon, aligning with the traditional mid-morning coffee break in Dutch work culture. 

Comparing Coffee Preferences: UK vs. Netherlands 

Coffee Drink	UK Popularity	Netherlands Popularity
Espresso	Medium	Very High
Cappuccino	High	Medium
Latte	Very High	High
Americano	High	Medium
Flat White	Very High	Low
Mocha	High	Medium
Koffie Verkeerd	Low	Very High
Iced Coffee	High	Medium
Cortado	Medium	Medium
Macchiato	High	Medium

Why Are These Coffee Drinks So Popular? 

1. Cultural Influence – The UK has been heavily influenced by Italian and Australian coffee culture, while the Netherlands maintains a strong preference for traditional brews. 

1. Coffee Shop Trends – Chains like Starbucks and Costa in the UK and independent cafes in the Netherlands dictate popular choices. 

1. Consumer Preferences – Younger generations prefer milky and sweetened drinks, whereas traditional coffee drinkers lean towards stronger, espresso-based beverages. 

How to Choose the Right Coffee Drink 

With so many options available, selecting the ideal coffee drink depends on several factors. 

Flavor Profile Preferences 

Understanding flavor preferences helps narrow down options: 

• Prefer mild, creamy coffee? Latte or flat white 

• Enjoy balanced coffee and milk? Cappuccino 

• Prefer pronounced coffee flavor? Americano or filter coffee 

• Want intense, concentrated coffee? Espresso or ristretto 

Caffeine Considerations 

Different preparations deliver varying caffeine levels: 

Coffee Drink	Average Caffeine Content (per serving)
Espresso (single)	63mg
Americano	95-125mg
Filter Coffee	95-165mg
Cappuccino	63-126mg
Latte	63-126mg
Flat White	126mg

Milk and Calorie Content 

For those monitoring calorie intake: 

Coffee Drink	Calories (with whole milk)	Calories (with oat milk)	Calories (black)
Espresso	0	0	0
Americano	0	0	0
Cappuccino (8oz)	110-130	90-110	N/A
Latte (12oz)	180-210	150-170	N/A
Flat White (6oz)	120-140	100-120	N/A

Interfresh’s Role in the Coffee Craze 

At Interfresh Food and Beverages, we’re not just watching the coffee trend—we’re part of it. Based in Vietnam, a top coffee-producing nation, we bring authentic Vietnamese coffee to over 80 countries, including the UK and Netherlands. 

Interfresh’s Coffee Offerings 

• Bottled Vietnamese Coffee: Rich, bold, and ready-to-drink—perfect for Dutch black coffee fans. 

• Custom Blends: Our OEM services let UK brands craft their own lattes or espressos. 

Unlike mass-market giants, Interfresh focuses on natural quality, aligning with the most popular coffee drinks trends of 2025—health, authenticity, and convenience. 

Why Interfresh Stands Out 

Our HACCP-certified factory ensures every bottle meets global standards, appealing to UK and Dutch consumers who value safety and sustainability. Compared to a UK latte from a chain, our coffee offers a unique Vietnamese twist. 

Taste the Most Popular Coffee Drinks with Interfresh 

What are the most popular coffee drinks of tomorrow? In the UK, flat whites and plant-based lattes will rise, while the Netherlands may see cold brew gain traction. Interfresh is poised to innovate, offering sustainable, natural options for both markets. 

Curious about the most popular coffee drinks in the UK and Netherlands? Try them with a twist from Interfresh Food and Beverages. Visit our website to explore our Vietnamese coffee and see how we can partner with your brand. Let’s brew something extraordinary together! 

FAQ

• What is the most popular coffee drink in the UK? 

The latte is currently the most popular coffee drink in the UK, accounting for approximately 38% of all coffee shop orders. Its popularity stems from its smooth, creamy texture and versatility with various flavor additions. The flat white has been gaining ground quickly, especially among younger consumers and in urban areas. 

• How does coffee consumption in the Netherlands differ from the UK? 

Dutch coffee consumption differs from the UK in several key ways. The Dutch consume more coffee per capita (2.5 cups per day vs. 2 cups in the UK), prefer longer coffee moments as social occasions rather than on-the-go consumption, and maintain a stronger appreciation for filter coffee alongside espresso-based drinks. The Netherlands also has unique preparations like “koffie verkeerd” that aren’t common in the UK. 

• What is the fastest-growing coffee trend in the UK and Netherlands? 

Ready-to-drink cold coffee options represent the fastest-growing segment in both markets, with cold brews showing 68% annual growth in the UK and 42% in the Netherlands. This trend is driven by younger consumers, convenience factors, and the development of premium shelf-stable products that maintain quality and flavor. Nitrogen-infused options have also gained significant traction in urban centers. 

• Why do Dutch people love coffee so much? 

The Netherlands has a long coffee history, dating back to its colonial past. Dutch coffee culture emphasizes quality, simplicity, and socializing. 

• How does Interfresh fit into this market? 

Interfresh Food and Beverages offers natural Vietnamese coffee, complementing the most popular coffee drinks with authentic, sustainable options.