kaffekopp

A kaffekopp is a small drinking vessel designed for coffee, typically with a handle and often used together with a saucer. In Swedish, the term refers to any cup intended for coffee, regardless of material or style. The form is closely associated with everyday coffee service and social rituals such as fika, where coffee and light snacks are shared.

Materials and design vary widely. Common materials include porcelain or ceramic, but kaffekoppar are also made from stoneware, glass, and sometimes metal. They may be plain or decorated with patterns, and finishes range from glossy to matte. A separate saucer is commonly used in traditional coffee service, though many casual designs omit it. Sizes differ: ordinary coffee cups usually hold about 120–180 ml, espresso cups about 60–90 ml, and larger mugs can exceed 250 ml.

History and context provide that the coffee cup evolved with European coffeehouse culture in the early modern period. Porcelain cups with saucers became widespread in Europe from the 17th to 19th centuries, influencing household and ceremonial coffee services. In Nordic countries, kaffekoppar are often part of coordinated sets used during social gatherings and formal dining, reflecting a blend of functionality and aesthetic presentation.

Care and use are straightforward: most kaffekoppar are dishwasher-safe if the glaze and material permit, but abrupt temperature changes should be avoided to prevent thermal shock. The Swedish term kaffekopp contrasts with mugg, which more commonly denotes a larger, less formal cup or mug.