mexican coffee recipe
The Best mexican coffee recipe
This recipe is also surprisingly healthy for someone who loves it so much. The coffee itself is packed with antioxidants, and the cinnamon adds natural sweetness without sugar. It’s a great way to start the day without the jitters of too much caffeine, and it’s so versatile—whether you’re making it for breakfast with some warm tortillas or keeping it on hand for a quick afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter. My husband always says it’s the only thing that makes him feel like he’s in Mexico every time he takes a sip. And honestly? It’s the kind of drink that feels special for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a small gathering or just enjoying it at home with the family.

Mexican Coffee (Café de Olla)
A rich, aromatic coffee brewed traditionally in Mexico using cinnamon and cloves for warmth and depth. Perfect for a cozy morning or evening.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dark roast coffee grounds
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 whole cloves
- 1 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional)
- 1 tsp cinnamon (for garnish)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a saucepan, combine water, coffee grounds, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium heat. -
2
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep for another 5 minutes. -
3
Strain the coffee mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or coffee filter into a bowl or mug. Discard the grounds and spices. -
4
Heat the milk (or plant-based milk) in a small bowl or mug over low heat until warm. Pour the coffee into mugs and stir in honey or sugar if desired. -
5
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and serve hot.
🔧Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Coffee filter or fine-mesh strainer
- Small bowl or mug
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra richness, add a dash of vanilla extract to the milk.
- Adjust sweetness to taste; traditional Mexican coffee is often served unsweetened.
- If using ground cinnamon instead of a stick, add 1/2 tsp to the coffee mixture.
Variations
- Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg for a spiced twist.
- For a creamy texture, blend 1/2 cup of the coffee with 1/2 cup of milk before serving.
Watch Video Of How Mexican Coffee (Café de Olla) Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Coffee (Café de Olla)
1. What are the key ingredients in a traditional Mexican coffee recipe?
A traditional Mexican coffee, known as café de olla, typically includes:
– Coffee beans (preferably medium to dark roast, often blended with cinnamon or vanilla)
– Ground coffee (coarsely ground for a smoother brew)
– Water (filtered or boiled)
– Cinnamon sticks (essential for flavor, often left whole to infuse)
– Brown sugar (or piloncillo, a natural unrefined cane sugar)
– Optional spices like cloves, nutmeg, or vanilla
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2. How do you make the classic café de olla with cinnamon?
To prepare café de olla:
1. Toast the cinnamon stick in a dry skillet for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add water (about 1.5–2 cups) and bring to a boil.
3. Add coffee grounds (about 2 tbsp per cup) and simmer for 5–10 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture into a pot with cinnamon sticks, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
5. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve warm, adjusting sweetness as needed.
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3. Can I use instant coffee instead of fresh beans in this recipe?
While fresh beans give the best flavor, you can use instant coffee for a quick version:
– Dissolve 1–2 tbsp instant coffee in hot water.
– Add cinnamon sticks, brown sugar, and simmer for 5 minutes.
– Strain and serve. The taste will be milder, but it works for a fast brew.
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4. Why is piloncillo used in Mexican coffee, and how does it differ from regular sugar?
Piloncillo is a traditional unrefined cane sugar syrup used in Mexican coffee because:
– It has a richer, caramel-like depth compared to white sugar.
– It contains minerals and natural flavors from the sugar cane.
– It’s less processed, giving a warmer, more complex taste.
To use: Crush it into small pieces and add it while simmering the coffee.
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5. How can I make Mexican coffee stronger or sweeter?
– For stronger coffee: Use more coffee grounds (e.g., 3 tbsp per cup) or brew longer (10+ minutes).
– For sweeter coffee: Add extra brown sugar or piloncillo (1–2 tbsp) or stir in a spoonful of syrup after brewing.
– For extra spice: Add a pinch of cloves or nutmeg while simmering.
