Looking to explore all the ways to enjoy Cuban coffee? If you’re a fan of rich, robust espresso with a sweet twist, Cuban coffee is a must-try experience! In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the most popular types of Cuban coffee, including cafecito, colada, café con leche, and cortadito. Whether you’re an espresso aficionado or new to Cuban coffee culture, this guide will help you brew a delicious cup at home using a classic moka pot. Let’s dive into each type and learn how to get the best Cuban coffee experience.
Essential Equipment – The Moka Pot for Cuban Coffee
To make authentic Cuban coffee at home, you’ll need a moka pot, also known as la greca. This Italian stovetop espresso maker, created by Alfonso Bialetti, is an essential tool in Cuban coffee-making. Simply unscrew it, fill the bottom chamber with water (up to the valve), add finely ground Cuban espresso to the filter basket, pack it tightly, and screw the top back on. As the moka pot heats, it uses steam to brew strong, flavorful coffee that’s perfect for cafecito and other Cuban coffee drinks.
The original moka coffee pot: Moka Express is the original stovetop espresso maker, it provides the experience of the real Italian way of preparing a tasteful coffee.
Cafecito – Sweet Cuban Espresso Shot
How to make Cuban coffee? Start with cafecito, the classic Cuban espresso shot with sugar. Place a few teaspoons of sugar into a cup. When the first few drops of coffee begin to brew, add them to the sugar and whisk to create espumita—a foamy, caramel-colored layer that’s a staple in Cuban coffee. Once the coffee finishes brewing, pour it over the foam, stir, and enjoy the intense, sweet flavor of authentic Cuban espresso.
Colada – Shareable Cuban Coffee for a Boost
If you’re looking for a social coffee experience, colada is your go-to Cuban coffee drink. This larger serving of cafecito is designed to be shared with friends or family. Typically served in a Styrofoam cup with smaller cups on the side, colada lets you enjoy Cuban espresso together with its rich, sweet taste and energizing effects. Perfect for gatherings, a colada gives everyone a little taste of strong Cuban coffee!
Café con Leche – Classic Cuban Coffee with Milk
For a lighter, milkier option, café con leche blends steamed milk with a shot of cafecito, creating a balanced and creamy Cuban coffee drink. To make café con leche, heat your milk on the stove (this step brings out the milk’s natural sweetness) and add a shot of cafecito. Many Cubans love using evaporated milk for an extra-rich flavor. This drink is a Cuban coffee favorite, especially in the mornings, and is popular among children and adults alike.
Cortadito – Bold Yet Balanced Cuban Coffee
The cortadito is another favorite in Cuban coffee culture, with a one-to-one ratio of coffee and milk. Slightly bolder than café con leche, it’s a great choice if you’re craving Cuban espresso with a bit of smoothness. Simply mix a shot of cafecito with an equal amount of steamed milk, and add a pinch of salt for an authentic touch—this small addition enhances the coffee’s depth and flavor.
Pro Tips for Brewing Cuban Coffee:
- Fresh Coffee Grounds: Using fresh coffee grounds is essential for bold Cuban coffee flavor.
- Pack the Filter Firmly: Packing the coffee grounds tightly in the moka pot creates a stronger, more concentrated brew.
- Espumita Foam: Mixing sugar with the first drops of coffee creates the authentic espumita that’s key to Cuban coffee’s unique taste.
- Evaporated Milk: Try evaporated milk in café con leche or cortadito for an extra creamy flavor.
From cafecito and colada to café con leche and cortadito, these classic Cuban coffee drinks are perfect for any coffee lover looking for an intense and flavorful caffeine boost. With this guide, you’ll be able to make authentic Cuban coffee at home and enjoy its rich, sweet taste any time of day.
