Are you ready to elevate your coffee game with a rich and bold cup of Cuban espresso? Look no further! In this article, we’re going to explore 18 unique and delicious Cuban espresso recipes that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Havana. From classic cafecitos to sweet treats and savory dishes, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a new flavor adventure, these bold and aromatic recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates. So grab your favorite mug, get ready to fiesta, and let’s dive into the world of Cuban espresso!
Classic Cuban Cafecito
A rich and bold coffee experience that’s a staple in Cuban culture. This simple recipe yields a strong, flavorful brew perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee (preferably espresso or dark roast)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 ounces evaporated milk (or heavy cream)
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream and cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the coffee to your desired strength.
2. In a small bowl, mix the sugar with 1 tablespoon of hot water until dissolved.
3. Add the sugar mixture to the brewed coffee and stir well.
4. Pour in the evaporated milk, stirring gently to combine.
5. Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the cafecito mixture over the ice.
6. Stir well and adjust sweetness and creaminess to taste.
7. If desired, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon.
Cooking Time: None (just brew and mix!)
Cuban Cortadito with Steamed Milk
Start your day off right with this rich and creamy Cuban coffee drink, infused with the subtle sweetness of steamed milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee (about 1/2 cup)
– 3-4 oz heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and pour it into a small cup.
2. Steam the milk until it’s hot and frothy, then add the sugar and whisk until dissolved.
3. Pour the steamed milk over the coffee, holding back any foam with a spoon.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top of the drink.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sweetened Cuban Espresso with Demerara Sugar
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this simple yet indulgent recipe. This sweet and velvety espresso is perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee (about 1 ounce)
– 1 tablespoon Demerara sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and pour it into a cup.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of Demerara sugar to the coffee, stirring until dissolved.
3. If desired, add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 2 minutes
– Total time: 5 minutes
Iced Cuban Coffee with Condensed Milk
Cool down on a hot day with this refreshing twist on traditional Cuban coffee, sweetened to perfection with condensed milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee (about 1 cup)
– 1/2 cup condensed milk
– Ice cubes
– Optional: sugar or sweetener to taste
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and pour it into a tall glass filled with ice cubes.
2. Open the can of condensed milk and slowly drizzle about 1/4 cup over the coffee, allowing it to drizzle down the sides of the glass.
3. Stir gently to combine and sweeten to taste (add sugar or sweetener if desired).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None – just brew the coffee and chill
Cuban Espresso Martini with Rum
This Cuban-inspired take on the classic espresso martini adds a touch of rum to create a rich, sweet, and creamy cocktail perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces dark rum
– 1/2 ounce Kahlúa
– 1/2 ounce Tia Maria
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 shot of Cuban espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Ice
– Coffee beans or grinds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the rum, Kahlúa, Tia Maria, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Pour in the espresso or brewed coffee.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
6. Top with heavy cream.
7. Garnish with coffee beans or grinds.
Cooking Time: None
Cuban Café con Leche
Start your day with a rich and creamy cup of Cuban Café con Leche, a beloved morning tradition that combines the bold flavors of espresso, sweetened condensed milk, and warm bread. This simple yet indulgent treat is sure to become a daily ritual.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 ounce)
– 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup of strong brewed coffee or freshly brewed espresso
– 1 slice of Cuban bread (or regular white bread), toasted
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong coffee or make a shot of espresso.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the brewed coffee into a large mug.
4. Add the shot of espresso to the brewed coffee.
5. Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
6. Slice the toasted bread and serve on the side.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spiced Cuban Coffee with Cinnamon
Energize your morning with the aromatic flavors of Cuba! This spiced coffee recipe combines rich espresso, cinnamon, and a hint of sweetness to create a delightful pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew one shot of strong espresso according to your machine’s instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the espresso over low heat until warm and fragrant.
3. Add the ground cinnamon and whisk until well combined.
4. Taste and add brown sugar if desired for a touch of sweetness.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to create a creamy topping.
6. Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cuban Coffee Flan with Espresso Caramel
A rich and decadent dessert that combines the deep flavors of Cuban coffee with the velvety smoothness of caramel.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup strong brewed Cuban coffee (such as Café Pilon)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Espresso caramel sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, and salt until dissolved.
3. Add egg yolks one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Stir in brewed Cuban coffee and melted butter.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
6. Allow flan to cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Drizzle espresso caramel sauce over the top of the chilled flan.
Espresso Caramel Sauce:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until caramel is smooth and thick. Let cool before using.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Cuban Espresso Brownies with Walnuts
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with these rich and fudgy brownies, infused with the deep notes of espresso and topped with crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup Cuban espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugars in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and espresso.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in walnuts.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cuban Coffee Tres Leches Cake
Cuban Coffee Tres Leches Cake: A rich and moist dessert infused with the flavors of strong Cuban coffee and soaked in a trio of creamy milks.
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
– 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder (Cuban-style)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup evaporated milk
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
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 coffee powder.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
8. Poke holes in cake with a skewer or fork.
9. Whisk together heavy cream, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk.
10. Pour milk mixture over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak through.
11. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Note: Traditionally, Tres Leches Cake is served with whipped cream or a dollop of coffee-flavored whipped cream on top.
Cuban Coffee-Rubbed Pork Shoulder
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with this aromatic pork shoulder recipe, infused with the richness of coffee and spices. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Cuban coffee (or strong brewed coffee)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together coffee, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Cuban Espresso Chocolate Mousse
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this decadent espresso chocolate mousse, perfect for impressing your guests at any gathering. This creamy dessert combines the boldness of Cuban coffee with the luxury of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed Cuban espresso
– 8 ounces good-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
3. In a large bowl, combine the melted chocolate, espresso, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well combined.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Cuban Coffee Ice Cream with Chocolate Chips
This Cuban-inspired ice cream is a perfect blend of rich coffee, creamy vanilla, and dark chocolate. Perfect for coffee lovers and those who crave a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup strong brewed Cuban coffee (such as Café Bustelo)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in brewed coffee and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Pour chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add chocolate chips.
6. Transfer ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (includes chilling and freezing time)
Cuban Coffee-Infused Tiramisu
This unique dessert combines the bold flavors of Cuban coffee with the creamy textures of traditional tiramisu, creating a truly decadent treat.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed Cuban coffee (Abuelita or Café Pilon)
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine brewed coffee and sugar; stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. To assemble the tiramisu, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a serving dish. Spread half the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat layers: ladyfingers, mascarpone mixture, and finally cocoa powder sprinkled on top.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuban Espresso Affogato with Vanilla Gelato
Experience the perfect blend of rich Cuban coffee and creamy gelato in this decadent dessert. This Affogato combines bold espresso, velvety vanilla gelato, and crunchy biscotti for a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong Cuban-style espresso
– 1 pint of vanilla gelato
– 4-6 biscotti cookies (preferably Cuban or Italian)
– Optional: whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong Cuban-style espresso according to your preferred method.
2. Scoop 1-2 servings of vanilla gelato into individual cups or glasses.
3. Pour the brewed espresso over the gelato, allowing it to drizzle down and create a lovely layered effect.
4. Place 1-2 biscotti cookies on top of each serving.
5. If desired, garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an extra-special touch.
Cooking Time: None – this dessert is quick and easy to prepare!
Cuban Coffee BBQ Sauce for Ribs
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with this unique BBQ sauce that combines the richness of coffee with the sweetness of brown sugar and spices. This sauce is perfect for slathering on ribs during your next backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup strong brewed Cuban coffee (such as Café Pilon)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, coffee, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your liking.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Cook time: 10-15 minutes
– Total time: 15-20 minutes
Use this BBQ sauce on ribs during the last 10 minutes of grilling or finishing with a broiler. Enjoy!
Cuban Espresso Molasses Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the deep flavors of espresso and molasses with a hint of spice, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With just the right balance of flavors, these Cuban-inspired treats will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup dark molasses
– 2 tbsp espresso powder (or instant coffee)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and espresso powder; mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cuban Coffee-Infused Rum Cocktail
Discover the rich flavors of Cuba with this unique coffee-infused rum cocktail, perfect for warm evenings or cozy nights.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz dark rum (such as Myers’s or Bacardí)
– 1 oz Cuban coffee liqueur (such as Café con Leche Liqueur)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz freshly brewed strong coffee
– 1/4 oz heavy cream
– Dash of cinnamon powder, for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the dark rum, Cuban coffee liqueur, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Brew a shot of strong coffee and add it to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice cubes.
6. Top with heavy cream and garnish with a dash of cinnamon powder.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Enjoy your delicious Cuban Coffee-Infused Rum Cocktail!
Summary
Coffee lovers, rejoice! This collection of 18 bold Cuban espresso recipes will satisfy your cravings. From classic cafecitos to decadent desserts and even savory dishes, these recipes showcase the rich flavors of Cuban coffee culture. Try a sweetened Cuban espresso with Demerara sugar or an iced version with condensed milk. Or get adventurous with a Cuban espresso martini or BBQ sauce for ribs! With so many options, you’re sure to find your new favorite way to enjoy Cuban espresso.
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