Cuban Coffee

Cuban coffee, or "Café Cubano," is a rich, bold, and sweet espresso drink rooted in Cuban culture. Known for its unique "espuma" or sugar foam, this coffee is perfect for jumpstarting your morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up. It combines the robust flavor of espresso with the sweetness of sugar, creating a balanced and satisfying experience.

Course Beverage

Cuisine Cuban

Keyword Bold Flavor, Caffeinated, Cuban Coffee, Sweet Coffee

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Servings 2

Calories 40kcal

Cost $3–$5

Equipment

Espresso machine or stovetop Moka pot
Small bowl or cup for mixing sugar
Espresso cups (for serving)

Ingredients

2 shots Espresso Use strong Cuban coffee brands like Bustelo or Pilon for authenticity.
2 tbsp Granulated sugar Adjust based on sweetness preference.

Instructions

Prepare the Espresso

Brew two shots of espresso using an espresso machine or a stovetop Moka pot. Ensure the coffee is freshly brewed and piping hot for the best flavor.

Create the Espuma (Sugar Foam)

In a small bowl or cup, add the granulated sugar.
Pour a teaspoon of the freshly brewed espresso into the sugar.
Using a spoon, vigorously mix the sugar and espresso together. The mixture will lighten in color and transform into a thick, creamy foam (espuma). This step is crucial for achieving the signature Cuban coffee texture.

Assemble the Cuban Coffee

Divide the espuma evenly into two espresso cups.
Pour the remaining hot espresso over the espuma in each cup. Stir gently to combine.

Serve Immediately

Serve the Cuban coffee fresh and hot. Pair it with a small Cuban pastry or enjoy it on its own.

Notes

Coffee Brands: For an authentic taste, use Cuban coffee brands such as Bustelo, Pilon, or La Llave. Their bold, dark roasts are ideal for this recipe.
Sugar Alternatives: While granulated sugar is traditional, you can use brown sugar or raw sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
Equipment Substitutions: If you don’t have an espresso machine or Moka pot, use a French press or AeroPress with finely ground coffee.
Espuma Technique: Getting the espuma right may take a few tries. The key is vigorous mixing and using just the right amount of espresso.

Tips for Serving

Pair Cuban coffee with Cuban toast or guava pastries for a traditional Cuban breakfast experience.
To make a larger batch, scale up the recipe, but always prepare the espuma freshly in small batches for the best result.

Enjoy the bold and sweet flavors of Cuban coffee, a drink that embodies warmth and hospitality.