How to Set Up a DIY Coffee Bar at Home

We spend a lot of time at home — which means it is super important to make home a cozy spot! One thing that makes our farmhouse really special in particular is our DIY coffee bar.

I know what you are thinking! But you own a tea company! Well, around here, we call it coffee bean tea. While we tend to prefer tea, there’s a time and place for coffee especially when it comes to practicing hospitality to the guests that are in and out of our farmhouse. Plus, there are so many types of beverages that can be made with an at-home coffee bar that are not just coffee. Why stop at lattes and Americanos when you can make chai tea lattes and London Fogs, too?

Learn how to set up a DIY coffee bar with our guide! Discover the essential tools you’ll need — like an espresso machine, milk frother, tamper, and mugs — to create the ultimate home coffee bar station. Plus, get tips for organizing your space and making drinks such as lattes, chai, matcha, and more. Perfect for anyone setting up a coffee bar at home! 

Essential Tools for Your DIY Coffee Bar

Setting up a coffee bar at home begins by gathering the right tools. The following is a great start!

Espresso machine

There are a lot of options when it comes to choosing an espresso machine. Consider your budget, style preferences, and coffee-making skills. Entry-level options are, of course, best for beginners. More advanced machines may have more features, like built-in grinders and steam wands, but you need to be prepared to learn how to use them! Our favorite is this simple and affordable De'Longhi Ec680M espresso machine because of its ease of use and small footprint, making it a great machine for beginners and/or those who just want a decent cup of espresso without the fuss.

Milk frother

Frothed milk can take even a regular filtered coffee and make it taste (and look!) like it came from a cafe. This is our favorite electric frother that will also heat up the milk without needing an espresso machine. Handheld frothers are affordable and easy to use, but you’ll have to heat the milk before you use it. Steam wands (if your espresso machine has one) are more convenient because they heat the milk as they froth it just as the electric frother will.

Tamper

A tamper is a small tool that ensures your espresso grounds are evenly packed — the key to a good shot of espresso! Most machines come with one, but many baristas will tell you that upgrading to a heavier one will make a big difference. For ourselves we replaced the plastic one that came with our De'Longhi Espresso Machine with this metal tamper here. 

Cream and sweetener station

Stocking your at-home coffee bar with a variety of sweeteners and creamers will make mornings a lot easier. Syrups like vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut are always popular ones! We like more natural options like honey and maple best! Along with making your own syrups and natural healthy creamers.

You can even go all out and outfit your bar with a mini fridge for milk and cream that need to be chilled too.

Mugs and glassware

A good collection of mugs and glasses is also part of a great coffee bar — they’re also really fun to collect. At least, I think so, and as the farmer knows too well. Having cappuccino cups, latte glasses, and tea mugs in different sizes on hand means you can whip up the beverage of your choice to suit the mood or company you are hosting. My favorite mugs are our handmade stoneware mugs from Sunset Hill Stoneware - they are made in the USA!

Storage and other extras

Keep your DIY coffee bar organized with shelves, decorative jars for ground espresso you plan to use up fast and loose-leaf teas, and labeled containers for syrups. As well as storage for your whole beans to be tucked away in the small refrigerator or freezer for freshness. A small tray can keep your tools in one place, and baskets in varying sizes would work well for extra supplies.

Don’t forget to include tea filters, tea infusers, a French press, and a coffee bean grinder if your espresso machine doesn’t have one. You’ll want to make sure you have everything you need to make a hot beverage within arms reach!

Drinks You Can Make at Your Coffee Bar

With your at home coffee bar all set up and ready to go, now it’s time to make some drinks. Use it to make coffee, but don’t stop there! Below, you’ll find our suggestions, along with some brief instructions for each.

Chai lattes

This spiced tea drink is one of our personal favorites. To make it, steep chai tea in hot water, then add steamed milk. Sweeten with honey or sugar to taste, and sprinkle some cinnamon on top for some extra spice.

Earl Grey Lattes (London Fog)

A London Fog is right up your alley if you love Earl Grey tea. It’s made with Earl Grey, milk, and vanilla syrup (or you could use extract). Simply steep your tea, froth some milk, and stir in the vanilla.

Lattes

A classic latte is made of espresso with steamed milk — the milk tones down the bitterness in the coffee, resulting in a creamy and smooth drink. Start by pulling a shot of espresso, then froth your milk and pour it right on top. You can add syrups or sweeteners for extra flavor too if you’d like.

Americanos

If you want to skip the milk, try an Americano. It’s just espresso diluted with hot water and is a great option if you’re craving coffee but want something less intense than straight-up espresso. To make it, mix one part espresso with two parts water.

Matcha lattes

You can also use matcha to make a latte! Whisk up the matcha powder with a bit of hot water until smooth, then add your steamed milk. Sweeten it with honey (or your preferred sweetener), and you’re good to go.

Steamers 

Steamers are so fun, especially if you want to avoid caffeine. They’re essentially steamed milk that gets flavored with syrups. Start by frothing your milk, then mix in a syrup like vanilla or hazelnut. We love making these for the kiddos on special occasions. Even craft your own simple syrups at home to use in your drink of choice.

Hot cocoa

Hot cocoa is such a must-have, especially during the fall and winter months. When setting up a coffee bar at home, make sure to include our favorite hot chocolate mix too (we also love this matcha cocoa combo). Combine it with steamed milk and sweetener of choice and stir until smooth and creamy. Top with homemade marshmallows! 

DIY Coffee Bar Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to make an at home coffee bar?

Your DIY coffee bar should include an espresso machine, milk frother, tamper, mugs, and a variety of sweeteners and creamers. Coffee, tea, and drink mixes, plus other tools like a grinder, tea infusers, and storage jars will make your setup even better. 

How much space do I need for a home coffee bar station?

It depends on your specific needs, but a quality coffee bar can fit in a small area like a corner of the countertop in your kitchen, a side table or bookshelf, or even in a small hutch. Make sure to use shelves, trays, jars, or other storage solutions to maximize your space while keeping it functional.

Can I use a coffee bar for tea and other drinks?

Absolutely! When setting up a coffee bar at home, make sure to include tools like tea strainers, tea filters, and a tea kettle. That way, it can easily double as a tea-making station. You can also use your espresso machine’s steam wand to froth milk for Earl Grey, chai, and matcha lattes.

Enjoy Your Coffee in Style

Creating a DIY coffee bar at home is easier than you may have imagined! With the right tools and ingredients, you can enjoy cafe-quality drinks without having to leave the house. From lattes and chai to matcha and steamers, there’s something for every taste — and occasion. It is a must-have for any family that loves to entertain and provide hospitality to visitors. 

Do you love coffee but are interested in learning more about loose-leaf tea? Don’t miss our FREE Coffee Drinkers Guide to Loose Leaf Tea ebook!

Keep Reading About Coffee Bar Drinks & Tips

• DIY Simple Syrups
• Homemade Cocoa Bombs
• Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
• Starbucks Medicine Ball (Copy Cat Recipe)
• DIY Mushroom Coffee Recipe
• Coffee Headaches and How to Master Them