We love diving into the bold flavors of Cuban coffee, a beloved brew that hails from the lively cafes of Cuba. This version swaps in sweetened condensed milk for a creamy twist on the classic, turning every sip into a sweet escape that captures the island’s vibrant spirit.
It’s our go-to recipe for an easy morning ritual that packs a punch of energy and nostalgia. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just curious, we’ll show you how to whip up this authentic delight right at home.
Ingredients
To craft our authentic Cuban Coffee with Sweetened Condensed Milk, we start by gathering these key ingredients in the order they are used for brewing and mixing.
- Espresso coffee grounds: 2 tablespoons, freshly ground for a bold, aromatic base that forms the heart of our rich Cuban brew.
- Water: 1 cup, filtered and heated to deliver the perfect extraction for a smooth, full-bodied espresso.
- Sweetened condensed milk: ¼ cup, creamy and velvety to infuse our coffee with its signature sweet, indulgent flavor that elevates every sip.
Equipment Needed
We believe that having the right equipment is essential for brewing an authentic Cuban coffee with sweetened condensed milk, ensuring a smooth and flavorful experience right in your kitchen. With these tools, we can effortlessly transform simple ingredients into a creamy, invigorating brew that captures the essence of Cuba’s coffee culture.
Required Tools
To prepare our Cuban coffee recipe with sweetened condensed milk, gather the following essential tools. We recommend using high-quality items for the best results, as they directly impact the coffee’s rich aroma and texture.
- Espresso Maker or Moka Pot: This is our go-to device for extracting the strong, bold espresso base that defines Cuban coffee. If you don’t have one, a traditional Moka pot works wonders on a stovetop, delivering that authentic flavor in minutes.
- Coffee Grinder: For freshly ground espresso coffee, we suggest a burr grinder to achieve a fine consistency, which enhances the drink’s intensity and freshness.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements are key for precision—use these to portion out the espresso grounds, filtered water, and sweetened condensed milk without guesswork.
- Heat-Resistant Mug or Glass: Opt for a sturdy, heat-proof container to hold the hot coffee mixture, allowing us to appreciate the creamy blend as it cools slightly.
- Long-Handled Spoon: This tool is crucial for stirring the sweetened condensed milk into the hot espresso, ensuring even distribution and a perfectly velvety finish.
By using these tools, we ensure every step of making Cuban coffee is efficient and enjoyable, building on the ingredients we’ve already discussed.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing our authentic Cuban Coffee with Sweetened Condensed Milk, using the ingredients and tools we’ve outlined to achieve a bold, aromatic brew right in your kitchen.
Prepare the Coffee
To start brewing the heart of our Cuban Coffee, follow these steps for a rich, espresso-like base that captures the essence of Cuba’s coffee culture:
- Grind the coffee: If using a burr grinder, measure 2 tablespoons of freshly ground espresso coffee beans per serving and grind them to a fine consistency for optimal extraction and flavor.
- Set up your brewer: Fill the bottom chamber of your Moka pot or espresso maker with 4 ounces of filtered water per serving, then add the ground coffee to the filter basket without packing it too tightly to allow even water flow.
- Brew the coffee: Place the brewer on medium heat and wait for the water to heat up and push through the grounds, producing a dark, fragrant stream that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of roasted coffee beans—listen for the gentle hissing sound that signals it’s ready, typically in 4-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat: Once brewing is complete, immediately take the pot off the stove to prevent bitterness, resulting in a smooth, full-bodied espresso that forms the perfect foundation for our sweetened variation.
Sweeten with Condensed Milk
Now that we have our robust coffee base, it’s time to incorporate the sweetened condensed milk for that creamy, indulgent twist that elevates Cuban Coffee to a luxurious treat:
- Add the milk: Pour 1-2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk into your heat-resistant mug or glass, depending on your desired sweetness level, then slowly add 4 ounces of the freshly brewed coffee while stirring gently with a long-handled spoon to create a velvety, caramel-like foam on top.
- Mix thoroughly: Stir the mixture in a circular motion for about 30 seconds until the milk fully integrates, transforming the bold coffee into a silky, sweet beverage that coats your palate with hints of vanilla and toffee flavors for a truly satisfying experience.
- Adjust to taste: If needed, add more milk in 1-tablespoon increments and stir again, ensuring the balance enhances the coffee’s natural intensity without overpowering it.
Serve and Enjoy
- Pour and garnish: Transfer the mixture to your serving mug if not already there, and for an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top to accentuate the warm, spicy notes that complement the sweetness.
- Serve hot: Enjoy it right away while it’s piping hot, allowing the creamy texture and robust aroma to awaken your senses with each sip—aim for a temperature around 150-160°F for the best mouthfeel.
- Sip slowly: Use this moment to appreciate the harmonious blend of strong coffee and smooth condensed milk, making it an ideal ritual for your morning routine or a midday pick-me-up.
Conclusion
We’ve explored the magic of crafting Cuban coffee with sweetened condensed milk, bringing a taste of Cuba right to your kitchen. It’s more than a brew; it’s a ritual that adds warmth and flavor to our daily lives.
Let’s make this our go-to for those perfect mornings or afternoon boosts. With these simple steps, we’re confident you’ll create something truly special every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cuban coffee?
Cuban coffee is a strong, flavorful espresso-based brew popular in Cuba’s cafes, often sweetened with condensed milk for a creamy twist. It’s a cultural staple that combines bold espresso with sweetness, making it perfect for a morning ritual or energy boost.
What are the key ingredients for Cuban coffee?
The main ingredients include freshly ground espresso coffee, filtered water, and sweetened condensed milk. These create a rich, creamy flavor profile that’s easy to prepare at home, capturing the essence of traditional Cuban coffee.
What equipment is needed to make Cuban coffee?
Essential tools include an espresso maker or Moka pot for brewing, a burr grinder for fine coffee grounds, measuring spoons and cups for accuracy, a heat-resistant mug for serving, and a long-handled spoon for mixing. These ensure a smooth, authentic experience.
How do I prepare Cuban coffee at home?
Start by grinding coffee beans finely and adding them to your brewer with filtered water. Brew the espresso, then remove from heat to avoid bitterness. Stir in sweetened condensed milk for creaminess, serve hot with a cinnamon sprinkle, and enjoy in under 10 minutes.
Can I substitute sweetened condensed milk in Cuban coffee?
Yes, you can use evaporated milk mixed with sugar or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk with sweetener, but it may alter the traditional creamy texture. Experiment to match your taste while keeping the bold espresso base intact.
Why is Cuban coffee popular?
It’s beloved for its intense flavor, cultural heritage, and versatility as a quick energy drink. The addition of sweetened condensed milk creates a velvety, indulgent experience, making it ideal for coffee lovers seeking a simple yet exotic morning treat.
How can I make my Cuban coffee taste better?
Use freshly ground beans, measure ingredients precisely, and brew at the right temperature to prevent bitterness. Experiment with the amount of condensed milk for sweetness, and garnish with cinnamon for extra aroma. Always serve hot for the best flavor.