Authentic Cuban Cafecito
Experience the rich and vibrant flavors of Cuba with this delightful recipe for Authentic Cuban Cafecito. This beloved beverage, more than just a simple espresso, is a symbol of Cuban culture and hospitality. The magic lies in the preparation, where sugar is whipped into a light, frothy crema that beautifully balances the potent, bold espresso. This classic drink is typically enjoyed after a meal or during social gatherings, making it an essential part of any Cuban feast. For the best results, using Café Bustelo espresso will elevate your cafecito to true Cuban perfection.
N/A
Servings
100
Calories
2
Ingredients
Ingredients
espresso ground coffee
1 cup (finely ground)
sugar
1/4 cup (granulated)
Instructions
1
Begin by filling a 6-cup stovetop espresso maker with water and finely ground espresso coffee according to the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to pack the coffee down firmly for optimal brewing. Place the espresso maker on moderate heat.
2
While your coffee brews, measure the sugar into a medium-sized tall container or a liquid measuring cup. As soon as the first trickle of coffee fills the reservoir of the espresso maker, pour about 1/2 tablespoon of the freshly brewed coffee over the sugar, being careful not to splash.
3
Return the espresso maker to the heat and let it continue to brew. Use a spoon to vigorously beat the sugar and coffee mixture until it transforms into a light, pale beige hue and the sugar granules dissolve, approximately 1 minute. Initially, the mix may appear dry, but keep beating until it becomes creamy.
4
Once the brewing process is complete, gently pour the remaining coffee over the creamed sugar mixture, stirring carefully to ensure all the sugar is dissolved. A glossy layer of sugar foam, known as crema, should be visible floating atop the coffee.
5
Finally, pour the cafecito into small espresso cups and serve immediately to enjoy the optimal taste and texture.
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
25g
Carbs
0.33g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Cuban Cafecito?
Authentic Cuban Cafecito is a rich and vibrant espresso beverage that serves as a symbol of Cuban culture and hospitality, characterized by a sweet, frothy sugar crema.
What makes Cuban Cafecito different from regular espresso?
The key difference is the preparation of 'espumita,' where sugar is whipped with the first drops of espresso to create a light, creamy foam.
Which coffee brand is recommended for this recipe?
For the best results and true Cuban perfection, using Café Bustelo espresso is highly recommended.
What are the ingredients for Cuban Cafecito?
The recipe requires only two ingredients: 1 cup of finely ground espresso coffee and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.
What equipment is needed to make this coffee?
You will need a 6-cup stovetop espresso maker (Moka pot), a medium-sized tall container for mixing, and small espresso cups for serving.
How should the coffee be packed in the espresso maker?
The finely ground espresso coffee should be packed down firmly in the filter basket to ensure optimal brewing.
What heat setting should be used on the stove?
The espresso maker should be placed over moderate heat.
How do you start making the sugar crema?
As soon as the first trickle of coffee fills the reservoir, pour about 1/2 tablespoon of it over the measured sugar in a separate container.
How long do you need to beat the sugar and coffee?
You should vigorously beat the mixture for approximately 1 minute until it transforms into a light, pale beige hue.
What should I do if the sugar and coffee mix looks dry at first?
Continue beating the mixture vigorously; it will eventually become creamy as the sugar granules dissolve.
What is the sugary foam on top called?
The glossy layer of sugar foam that floats atop the coffee is known as 'crema'.
When do I add the rest of the coffee to the sugar?
Once the brewing process is complete, gently pour the remaining coffee over the creamed sugar mixture.
How many calories are in a serving of this Cafecito?
This recipe contains approximately 100 calories per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content of this drink?
Each serving contains 25g of carbohydrates, primarily from the added sugar.
Does Cuban Cafecito contain any fat?
No, this beverage contains 0g of fat.
How much protein is in the recipe?
The recipe contains a small amount of protein, approximately 0.33g.
Is there any fiber in this coffee?
No, there is no dietary fiber in this coffee recipe.
How should Cafecito be served?
It should be poured into small espresso cups and served immediately for the best taste and texture.
When is this drink traditionally enjoyed?
It is typically enjoyed after a meal or during social gatherings.
What is the preparation style for the coffee grounds?
The coffee should be finely ground specifically for espresso brewing.
Can I use regular granulated sugar?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for granulated sugar to create the signature crema.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe uses a 6-cup espresso maker, typically serving several small espresso-sized portions.
Is this a traditional Cuban recipe?
Yes, this is an authentic recipe designed to replicate the traditional Cuban coffee experience.
Why is it called a 'party drink' in the tags?
It is considered a party drink because it is a staple of Cuban social culture and hospitality.
What color should the 'espumita' be?
The whipped sugar should be a light, pale beige hue when it is ready.
Should I stir the coffee after mixing?
Yes, stir carefully to ensure all the sugar is dissolved before pouring into cups.
Is there any sodium or cholesterol in this recipe?
Based on the nutritional data provided, there is no sodium or cholesterol in this recipe.
Can I make this with a regular drip coffee maker?
No, a stovetop espresso maker is necessary to get the concentrated coffee needed for the sugar crema.
What happens if I use too much coffee for the initial sugar mix?
Using too much coffee will make the mixture too watery, and you won't be able to achieve the thick, frothy crema consistency.
How much sugar is used per cup of coffee grounds?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of sugar for every 1 cup of espresso ground coffee.