When it comes to coffee, Cubans know a thing or two. Their rich and bold espresso culture has been perfected over generations, with intricate rituals and traditions surrounding every cup. But what makes Cuban espresso truly special is the incredible variety of ways you can enjoy it. From classic cafecito to decadent desserts, these 18 recipes will show you just how versatile and delicious Cuban coffee can be.
Classic Cuban Cafecito: a traditional morning pick-me-up made with strong espresso, sugar, and a splash of water. It’s the perfect way to start your day.
Classic Cuban Cafecito
A traditional Cuban coffee drink that’s strong, rich, and aromatic, perfect for a pick-me-up or after-dinner treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of espresso (or strong brewed coffee)
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
– 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk
– Water, for serving
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of espresso or make a strong cup of coffee.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the sweetened condensed milk to the saucepan and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the coffee into a cup. Slowly pour the milk mixture into the coffee, creating a layered effect.
5. Serve immediately, with a splash of water if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cuban Cortadito with Steamed Milk
Summary: A classic Cuban breakfast treat, cortadito is a sweet bread filled with milk and spices, perfect for a warm morning. This recipe combines the traditional method of steaming milk with the ease of a simple bread recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Steamed milk (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Proof the yeast by mixing it with lukewarm water; let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into small balls.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Steamed Milk:
1. Combine 2 cups milk, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and steam for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Iced Cuban Espresso with Vanilla
Escape the ordinary and treat yourself to a unique flavor combination that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Havana.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 oz)
– 2 cups of ice
– 1/2 cup of milk or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Sugar or sweetener to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong espresso and pour it over the ice in a tall glass.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the milk-vanilla mixture over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon if desired.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Taste and add sugar or sweetener as needed.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just brew and assemble!)
Cuban Espresso Martini
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this decadent espresso martini recipe. By combining smooth espresso, velvety vodka, and a hint of sweetness, you’ll be transported to the vibrant streets of Havana.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces strong Cuban espresso
– 1 ounce vodka
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 ounce Kahlúa liqueur
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice
– Chocolate shavings or cinnamon for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the espresso, vodka, simple syrup, and Kahlúa to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of vanilla extract for added depth.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the martini into a chilled glass.
6. Garnish with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 5 minutes.
Café Cubano with Brown Sugar
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba in this simple yet decadent coffee recipe, infused with the warmth of brown sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee (about 1 cup)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and pour into a small saucepan.
2. Add the brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract to the coffee.
3. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your taste.
– Serve warm or at room temperature.
– Enjoy with a sweet treat, like toast or cookies.
Cuban Espresso Flan
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this decadent espresso flan dessert, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon Cuban espresso powder (or strong brewed coffee)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Add the Cuban espresso powder (or brewed coffee) to the mixture and whisk until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into 6-8 ramekins or small cups. Place in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Cuban Coffee with Cinnamon
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this aromatic coffee recipe infused with warm cinnamon and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong coffee and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, combine cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and brown sugar.
3. Add the brewed coffee to the saucepan and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour into cups and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cuban Coffee Chocolate Mousse
Rich, bold flavors of Cuban coffee and dark chocolate come together to create a luxurious mousse that’s perfect for special occasions or a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Cuban coffee liqueur (or strong brewed Cuban coffee)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 large egg whites
• Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and whole milk until stiff peaks form.
2. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir the Cuban coffee liqueur into the melted chocolate until combined.
4. Fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture until well incorporated.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Cuban Espresso Affogato
Rich and decadent, this Cuban-inspired dessert combines the bold flavors of espresso, vanilla ice cream, and caramelized sugar. Perfect for coffee lovers and those seeking a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong Cuban-style espresso
– 1 scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream
– 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong Cuban-style espresso into a cup.
2. Place 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream in the cup, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat of the espresso.
3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar over the top of the ice cream.
4. Use a kitchen torch (or under the broiler) to caramelize the sugar until golden brown.
5. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuban Coffee Tres Leches Cake
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this moist and decadent cake, infused with the deep notes of Cuban coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup Cuban coffee syrup (or strong brewed coffee)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in Cuban coffee syrup (or brewed coffee).
6. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Tres Leches:
1. Poke holes all over the cooled cake with a skewer or fork.
2. Whisk together evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.
3. Pour the Tres Leches mixture evenly over the cake.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cuban Espresso Tiramisu
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this unique twist on the classic Italian dessert, incorporating espresso and rum to create a decadent treat.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong Cuban espresso
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add softened butter, Cuban espresso, and dark rum to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.
3. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
4. In a large serving dish, create a layer of ladyfingers. You may need to trim them to fit the dish.
5. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 for the second layer.
7. Dust the top with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold dessert.
Cuban Coffee Rum Infusion
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with this unique rum infusion recipe, perfect for sipping on a warm evening or using as a base for cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark rum (at least 80 proof)
– 1/2 cup strong brewed Cuban coffee (e.g., Café Cubano or Café Pilon)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the rum, coffee, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the infusion into a clean glass bottle or jar.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Notes:
– Adjust the amount of coffee and spices to your taste preferences.
– Use this infused rum as a base for cocktails, such as a Cuba Libre (rum and cola) or add it to your favorite coffee-based drinks.
Cuban Espresso Milkshake
Escape to a tropical paradise with this rich and creamy Cuban-inspired espresso milkshake. Combining the bold flavors of espresso, sweet condensed milk, and velvety ice cream, this treat is sure to transport you to the sun-kissed streets of Havana.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong espresso
– 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 1/2 cups of vanilla ice cream
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon of grated cinnamon (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong espresso and let them cool to room temperature.
2. In a blender, combine the cooled espresso, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla ice cream. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the unsalted butter and blend until fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and garnish with grated cinnamon if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cuban Coffee Coconut Flan
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this decadent coffee-infused coconut flan dessert.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 teaspoon instant coffee powder
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, milk, heavy cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat; stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, coffee powder, and melted butter.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by gradually adding 1/2 cup of the warm milk mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture into the saucepan and whisk until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into 6 (1-cup) ramekins or small cups. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven; let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cuban Espresso Brownies
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with these decadent brownies infused with the boldness of espresso.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups of sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of strong brewed espresso
– 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of rum (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture to the sugar mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the espresso and chocolate chips; stir until well combined.
6. If using rum, fold it into the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cuban Coffee Caramel Sauce
Cuban Coffee Caramel Sauce Recipe
A rich and velvety caramel sauce infused with the deep flavors of Cuban coffee, perfect for drizzling over ice cream, cakes, or using as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) strong brewed Cuban coffee (such as Café Pilon)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and brewed Cuban coffee in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel turns a deep amber color.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Let cool slightly before using or storing in an airtight container at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cuban Espresso Panna Cotta
Experience the perfect blend of Cuban coffee culture and Italian dessert tradition with this creamy panna cotta infused with rich espresso.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tbsp Cuban espresso powder (or strong brewed coffee)
– 1/4 cup unflavored gelatin
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Add the Cuban espresso powder (or brewed coffee) to the cream mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuban Coffee Ice Cream
Cuban Coffee Ice Cream Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this unique ice cream recipe, infused with the bold notes of espresso and sweet caramel.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add instant espresso powder and whisk until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the ice cream and stir until fully incorporated.
Cooking Time:
– Churning time: 20-25 minutes
– Freezing time: at least 2 hours or overnight
Summary
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Cuba with these 18 delicious espresso recipes. From classic Cuban Cafecito to decadent desserts like Cuban Coffee Chocolate Mousse and Tiramisu, there’s something for every coffee lover. Whether you prefer your espresso strong and black or sweetened with steamed milk and vanilla, this collection has it all. Try making a Spiced Cuban Coffee with Cinnamon or a Cuban Espresso Affogato to impress your friends and family. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
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