Celebrate National Espresso Day with Holiday Espresso Creations Using TRU Espresso Machines
November 23rd is National Espresso Day, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a delicious lineup of holiday-inspired espresso drinks, crafted with our newest TRU Espresso Machines! Whether you’re grinding, brewing, or steaming, these innovative machines are perfect for bringing barista-quality drinks to your home.
Our Latest TRU Espresso Machines
TRU Slim Profile 19 Bar Espresso Machine
Sleek, stylish, and functional, this espresso machine delivers café-quality drinks at home with ease. Its compact design is perfect for any kitchen, and its 19 bars of pressure ensure optimal extraction. Features include:
- Adjustable single and double shot settings
- A steam wand for creating velvety foam for lattes and cappuccinos
- A removable 40-ounce water tank for easy filling and cleaning
- Cup warming plate for the perfect serving temperature
TRU Fully Automatic 19 Bar Espresso Machine with Grinder
The ultimate luxury for coffee lovers, this all-in-one machine grinds, brews, and steams to perfection. With its built-in burr grinder and intelligent temperature control, every shot is consistently delicious. Features include:
- Integrated precision burr grinder with adjustable grind settings
- 19-bar pressure for optimal espresso extraction
- Adjustable steam wand for rich, creamy foam
- A large 100-ounce water tank for less frequent refills
- Includes barista-style accessories like a frothing pitcher, tamper, and cleaning tools
No matter which machine you choose, TRU Espresso Machines are your holiday kitchen companions, helping you create unforgettable coffee moments. Explore our full collection of espresso machines here.
The History of National Espresso Day
National Espresso Day, celebrated annually on November 23rd, honors one of the most beloved and iconic coffee brewing methods in the world. But the story of espresso goes back much further, rooted in Italian coffee culture and innovation.
The word "espresso" itself is derived from the Italian term "esprimere," meaning "to express" or "to press out." This describes the way espresso is made: by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water through finely-ground coffee beans. This brewing process was invented in Italy in the early 20th century, during a time when coffee culture was flourishing across Europe, especially in bustling Italian cafes.
The first true espresso machine was patented in 1901 by Italian inventor Luigi Bezzera, who sought a faster way to brew coffee. Bezzera’s machine used steam to press water through coffee grounds, dramatically cutting down the brewing time. This innovation revolutionized coffee preparation and introduced the world to a new, concentrated coffee experience.
Over the years, espresso gained popularity, becoming the heart of Italian coffee culture and inspiring the development of countless espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos. By the mid-20th century, espresso culture had spread across Europe and eventually to the United States, where espresso drinks became synonymous with cafe culture. In modern times, espresso is enjoyed globally and appreciated for its rich, bold flavor and versatility.
National Espresso Day was established to recognize and celebrate the art, science, and cultural impact of espresso. It’s a day for coffee lovers to enjoy their favorite espresso drinks, experiment with new recipes, and appreciate the role that espresso plays in daily life—from jumpstarting mornings to inspiring social gatherings in cafes worldwide.
Whether you're an espresso enthusiast or a casual coffee drinker, National Espresso Day is a chance to savor and explore the deep, rich flavor of this unique coffee style, and perhaps even try making it yourself with a home espresso machine.
1. Festive Eggnog Latte
Espresso Day calls for something special! Combine the bold flavor of espresso with the creamy richness of eggnog for a festive treat. Here’s how to make a delicious Eggnog Latte, perfect for the holiday season.
Brew the espresso using the TRU Fully Automatic 19 Bar Espresso Machine for a creamy, rich latte that blends eggnog and espresso.
Ingredients:
- Double shot espresso
- 8 oz eggnog
- 4 oz milk (whole milk is best for frothing)
Instructions:
-
Brew the Espresso using the TRU Espresso Maker
Start with a fresh double shot of espresso as your base. -
Froth the Milk and Eggnog
Combine the eggnog and milk in a frothing pitcher. Heat and froth the mixture to 180°F, or until the outside of the pitcher feels hot.
TIP: If you find the 12 oz of eggnog and milk too much, reduce the total volume while maintaining a 2:1 ratio of eggnog to milk. -
Combine and Serve
Pour the frothed eggnog-milk mixture over the espresso. Optionally, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive touch.
Enjoy your creamy, festive Eggnog Latte this Espresso Day!
2. Cranberry Orange Iced Espresso
Use the TRU Slim Profile 19 Bar Espresso Machine to create this vibrant and refreshing holiday drink with cranberry and orange juice.
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso
- 1/2 cup cranberry juice
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- Ice cubes
- Cranberries and an orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
Combine cranberry juice and orange juice in a glass over ice. Brew a double shot of espresso in your TRU Espresso Maker and pour it over the juices. Stir well, and garnish with cranberries and an orange slice. This vibrant Cranberry Orange Iced Espresso is a festive and refreshing drink that’s perfect for holiday mornings.
3. Peppermint Mocha Affogato
Perfectly crafted espresso from the TRU Fully Automatic Espresso Machine meets peppermint chocolate ice cream in this decadent dessert drink.
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso
- 1 scoop peppermint chocolate ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions:
Place a scoop of peppermint chocolate ice cream in a small bowl or glass. Brew a hot double shot of espresso in your TRU Espresso Machine and pour it over the ice cream. Top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies. This Peppermint Mocha Affogato is a dessert and coffee all in one—a delightful way to end a holiday meal.
4. S’mores Macchiato
Add campfire vibes to your holidays with a shot of espresso brewed from the TRU Slim Profile Espresso Machine.
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp chocolate syrup
- Crushed graham crackers
- Marshmallows for garnish
Instructions:
Brew a double shot of espresso in your TRU Espresso Machine. In a glass, add chocolate syrup and crushed graham crackers at the bottom. Pour steamed milk over and add the espresso shot. Top with marshmallows and more graham cracker crumbs. The S’mores Macchiato is a cozy, nostalgic treat that brings the flavors of a campfire to your holiday celebrations.
5. Iced Gingerbread House Latte
Use either machine to create this festive spiced latte topped with whipped cream and gingerbread cookies.
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp gingerbread syrup
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream and gingerbread cookies for garnish
Instructions:
Add gingerbread syrup to a glass with ice, pour in milk, and stir. Brew a double shot of espresso and pour it over the milk mixture. Garnish with whipped cream and a small gingerbread cookie. This Iced Gingerbread House Latte is a fun, spiced drink that tastes like the holidays in a cup.
6. Pumpkin White Chocolate Latte
Pair the rich espresso from the TRU Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with pumpkin puree and white chocolate for this seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp white chocolate chips
- Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish
Instructions:
Heat the milk and white chocolate chips until melted, then mix in the pumpkin puree. Brew a double shot of espresso in your TRU Espresso Maker and combine with the pumpkin mixture. Top with whipped cream and a dash of pumpkin pie spice. The Pumpkin White Chocolate Latte is a rich, comforting drink that’s perfect for Thanksgiving morning.
7. Snickerdoodle Chai Cappuccino
Craft a cinnamon-sugar cappuccino using the TRU Slim Profile Espresso Machine and its velvety steam wand.
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp sugar
- Whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for garnish
Instructions:
Add cinnamon and sugar to your milk, then steam it using the TRU Espresso Machine’s steam wand. Brew a double shot of espresso, pour the cinnamon milk over it, and top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon sugar. The Snickerdoodle Chai Cappuccino is a warm, spiced treat that’s sure to please.
8. Nutcracker Breve
Combine hazelnut syrup and creamy half-and-half with a robust espresso shot from the TRU Fully Automatic Espresso Machine for a holiday treat.
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso
- 1/2 cup half-and-half
- 1 tbsp hazelnut syrup
- Whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg
Instructions:
Steam the half-and-half and hazelnut syrup together. Brew a double shot of espresso in the TRU Espresso Machine and pour the hazelnut mixture over it. Top with whipped cream and nutmeg for a drink that’s rich, creamy, and full of holiday cheer.
9. Caramel Apple Macchiato
Brew the perfect espresso using the TRU Slim Profile Espresso Machine and pair it with caramel and apple cider for a cozy fall drink.
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended for a richer texture)
- 1 tbsp caramel sauce
- Whipped cream and caramel drizzle for garnish
Instructions:
-
Heat the Cider, Milk, and Caramel
In a small saucepan, heat the apple cider, milk, and caramel sauce together until warm and well combined. -
Pour into a Glass
Once heated, pour the cider-milk mixture into your glass or mug. -
Add Espresso
Brew a double shot of espresso in the TRU Espresso Machine and pour it gently over the cider mixture. -
Garnish and Serve
Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy the Caramel Apple Macchiato – a cozy blend of apple, caramel, and espresso that's perfect for fall and holiday gatherings!
Why a TRU Espresso Machine?
TRU Espresso Machines are the ideal choice for home baristas who want professional-quality drinks without the coffee shop price tag. Whether you prefer the compact convenience of the Slim Profile Espresso Machine or the luxury features of the Fully Automatic Espresso Machine, you’ll find a model that fits your lifestyle.
Elevate your holiday gatherings with coffee creations that impress friends and family alike. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media using #SelectBrands and #NationalEspressoDay for a chance to be featured!
For more holiday-inspired recipes and coffee tips, check out our blog.
