How to Make the Perfect Cuban Coffee Mocktail
Cuban · Easy · 15 min · 2 servings
This Cuban Coffee Mocktail captures all the bold and sweet intensity of a classic cafecito without any caffeine by using decaf espresso combined with brown sugar foam and a hint of cinnamon. It is a sophisticated and refreshing non-alcoholic drink that is perfect for entertaining or a cozy evening treat.
Why this recipe works
This Cuban Coffee Mocktail recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 120 calories with 2g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 shots decaf espresso or strong brewed decaf coffee
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.5 cup oat milk or whole milk
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
Brew 2 shots of strong decaf espresso and let it cool for 3 minutes. If you do not have an espresso machine you can use 4 tablespoons of very strong brewed decaf coffee as a substitute without losing much of the intense flavor.
Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Foam
In a small bowl combine 2 tablespoons of brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of the warm espresso and whisk vigorously for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes a thick pale caramel-colored foam similar to the crema on a traditional cafecito.
Step 3: Assemble the Drink
Fill two glasses with ice cubes. Pour the remaining cooled espresso over the ice and divide equally between the two glasses. Add vanilla extract and the remaining tablespoon of brown sugar to each glass and stir to dissolve.
Step 4: Top and Garnish
Froth the oat milk or whole milk using a handheld frother until light and airy. Pour the frothed milk over the espresso and top each glass with a generous spoonful of the brown sugar foam. Finish with a light dusting of cinnamon and serve immediately.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- decaf espresso → strongly brewed decaf coffee or chicory coffee blend
- oat milk → whole dairy milk for a richer and creamier texture
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using regular instant coffee instead of strong brewed espresso which results in a weak and watery drink lacking Cuban coffee intensity
- Not whisking the brown sugar foam long enough which means it will be thin and runny rather than thick and frothy
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 120 calories, 2g protein, 24g carbs, 3g fat, 0g fiber.
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