Café Cubano: The Sweet Art of Cuban Coffee

Café Cubano, or Cuban coffee, is more than just a drink—it's a cultural tradition. Known for its bold, sweet, and syrupy flavor, Café Cubano is deeply embedded in Cuban culture and is a staple of everyday life in Miami’s Little Havana and beyond. At Salty Dog Coffees, we appreciate Café Cubano for its unique twist on espresso, offering a satisfying, energizing experience that is perfect for coffee lovers who crave a bit of sweetness with their bold brew.

What is Café Cubano?

Café Cubano is made using a strong, espresso-like base brewed with finely ground dark-roasted coffee. It’s distinct from regular espresso because sugar is whipped into the first few drops of coffee, creating a thick, caramel-colored foam known as espuma. This foam adds sweetness and a creamy texture, making it uniquely Cuban.

Café Cubano is:

• Sweet and bold, with a rich, syrupy mouthfeel.
• Usually served in small cups similar to espresso shots.
• A social tradition, often enjoyed with friends or family after a meal or during a quick break.

Essential Equipment for Café Cubano

To make Café Cubano, you’ll need:

1. Espresso Maker or Moka Pot: Either can be used to brew the strong coffee base.
2. Finely Ground Dark Roast Coffee: Look for bold blends that are dark-roasted.
3. Sugar: White granulated sugar is traditionally used to create the espuma.
4. Demitasse Cups: Small cups to serve the concentrated coffee.

Step-by-Step Guide to Brewing Café Cubano

1. Brew the Coffee Base: Use either an espresso machine or a Moka pot to brew strong, dark coffee. Aim for about 1-2 ounces of concentrated coffee.
2. Make the Espuma:
   • Add 2-3 teaspoons of sugar into a small metal cup or mixing bowl.
   • Once the coffee begins to brew, add a few drops of the first coffee drips into the sugar. The first few drops contain the most oils and flavors, making them ideal for creating the foam.
   • Vigorously whisk the sugar and coffee together until a thick, frothy espuma forms. The mixture should turn a light caramel color.
3. Combine the Coffee & Espuma: Once the full coffee brew is ready, slowly pour it over the prepared espuma, mixing well to ensure the foam spreads throughout the coffee.
4. Serve & Enjoy: Pour the Café Cubano into small demitasse cups and serve immediately. Enjoy the sweet, bold brew with friends, or as a solo morning ritual.

Tips for Perfecting Your Café Cubano

1. Use Dark-Roasted Coffee: Cuban coffee is all about bold, strong flavors, so opt for dark-roasted beans like our Black Lab Blend or Island TriPawd for an authentic experience.
2. Whisk Vigorously: The key to a good Café Cubano is the espuma, so take your time whipping it to achieve a creamy texture.
3. Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preference—2 teaspoons for a balanced sweetness, or more for a sweeter cup.
4. Serve Hot: Café Cubano is best enjoyed immediately after brewing, while it’s still hot and fresh.

Best Beans for Café Cubano

While traditional Cuban coffee often uses robusta beans for a stronger brew, you can also use dark-roasted Arabica beans for a slightly smoother flavor. Here are some ideal choices:

• Dark Roasts: These bring out the bold, chocolatey, and nutty notes that define Cuban coffee.
• Espresso Blends: Look for espresso-specific blends that have a rich body and full flavor, perfect for making Café Cubano.
• Single-Origin Bold Varieties: For a more nuanced brew, try single-origin beans from Brazil or Sumatra, as their deep flavors align well with the boldness of Cuban coffee.

Why Café Cubano is Perfect for Salty Dog Lovers

Café Cubano captures the spirit of the beach: bold, energizing, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect way to start the day, offering a sweet pick-me-up that mirrors the warmth of the sun. Whether enjoyed at sunrise, after a meal, or during a relaxed afternoon, Café Cubano is a reminder that coffee is not just a drink, but a shared experience.

Variations to Try

1. Colada: A larger batch of Café Cubano, served in a small pot with multiple shot-sized cups for sharing.
2. Cortadito: Mix equal parts Café Cubano and steamed milk to create a creamy, sweet coffee.
3. Iced Café Cubano: Let the brew cool and pour over ice for a chilled version that retains its sweetness and strength.
4. Café con Leche: Serve Café Cubano with hot, steamed milk and a touch of sugar for a classic Cuban breakfast drink.

Ready to Dive Into Café Cubano?

At Salty Dog Coffees, we invite you to explore the world of Café Cubano. It’s more than just coffee; it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. Grab your Moka pot or espresso machine, some freshly roasted beans, and enjoy a sweet, bold brew that embodies the warmth of Cuba’s coffee culture.

Stay tuned for more brewing tips, coffee guides, and all things coffee from the Salty Dog community!