Cafe Cubano Recipe at Home

If you’re looking to elevate your coffee game, look no further than the rich and bold flavors of Cafe Cubano. This beloved Cuban espresso is not just a drink; it’s an experience that brings a touch of warmth and culture right into your home.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons finely ground dark roast coffee (preferably Cuban coffee)
• 1 ounce (2 shots) of water (for brewing)
• 1-2 teaspoons sugar (to taste)

Method

1. Start by boiling water in a small pot or kettle until it reaches about 200°F. This is just off boiling, perfect for brewing espresso.
2. While the water heats, add your finely ground coffee to an espresso maker. If you don’t have an espresso maker, a Moka pot works beautifully, too.
3. As the water heats, take a small cup and add the sugar. For a true Cafe Cubano experience, you can use 1-2 teaspoons depending on your sweetness preference.
4. Once your water is ready, pour it over the coffee grounds in the espresso maker and close it up. Brew for about 3-5 minutes until you see the espresso start to flow.
5. As the first drops of espresso come out, mix them with the sugar in your cup to create a frothy, caramel-like mixture. This is called “espuma.”
6. Pour the remaining espresso over your espuma and give it a gentle stir. Voila! Your Cafe Cubano is ready to enjoy.

Optional Variations

• For a sweeter drink, add more sugar to your espuma.
• Want to make it creamy? Add a splash of whole milk, evaporated milk, or a non-dairy alternative like oat milk.
• If you prefer iced coffee, pour your finished Cafe Cubano over ice for a refreshing twist.

Troubleshooting Tip: If your espresso is too bitter, try adjusting your grind size to be coarser or reduce the brewing time slightly.

Serving Suggestion: Serve your Cafe Cubano with a side of buttery Cuban toast or a piece of sweet pastry for a delightful morning treat. Enjoy the cozy flavors and the vibrant culture that comes with every sip!