Cuban Coffee Cafecito Recipe

Experience the vibrant heart of Cuba with this authentic Cafecito recipe! More than just espresso, a true Cafecito boasts a luscious, sweet crema – a unique foam created by expertly beating sugar with a touch of coffee. Forget fancy beans; it's the masterful technique that defines this iconic Cuban coffee. Learn Lourdes Castro's secret, passed down through generations, for crafting the perfect crema and unlock the rich, intense flavor that makes this drink an essential part of any Cuban meal. This recipe, shared by renowned chef, nutritionist, and cooking teacher Lourdes Castro, will transport you straight to the heart of a Cuban fiesta!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Calories 32.2 kcal
Protein 0g
Rating Be the first
Cuban Coffee Cafecito 87

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Cuban Coffee Cafecito

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How to Make Cuban Coffee Cafecito

  1. In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to simmer.
  2. Remove from heat and let the sugar syrup cool slightly.
  3. In a small cup or mug, add 1 tablespoon of strong brewed espresso (or use a Moka pot for 1-2 shots).
  4. Add 1-2 teaspoons of the cooled sugar syrup to the espresso. (Adjust to your sweetness preference)
  5. Using a small whisk or a fork, vigorously beat the espresso and sugar syrup mixture until a thick, creamy foam (crema) forms on top. This should take about 1-2 minutes of consistent whisking.
  6. Pour into a demitasse cup and enjoy immediately! For an extra authentic touch, add a pinch of cinnamon.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

33g

Fat

0g

Carbs

2g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Cuban Coffee Cafecito?

Cuban Coffee Cafecito takes about 20 minutes from start to finish — roughly 5 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Cuban Coffee Cafecito?

Cuban Coffee Cafecito has approximately 32.2 calories per serving, with about 0 g protein, 2 g carbohydrates and 0 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Cuban Coffee Cafecito?

The key ingredients for Cuban Coffee Cafecito are Ground Coffee, Sugar. See the full list with measurements above.

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