The Café Cubano, also known as Cuban espresso, is a rich and sweet coffee drink born from Cuban tradition.
It’s made by combining fresh espresso with sugar, whisked together to create a thick, foamy layer called espuma.
This drink is more than just coffee — it’s a cultural ritual, served as a symbol of hospitality and community in Cuba and Miami alike.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 shots (60 ml) espresso (strong, dark roast)
- 1–2 teaspoons granulated sugar (traditionally brown or raw sugar)
🛠️ Equipment
- Espresso machine or moka pot
- Small cup or metal creamer (for mixing)
- Spoon for whipping
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Process
1. Brew the Espresso
Start by brewing your espresso using finely ground dark roast coffee.
If you’re using a moka pot, make sure the water is hot before assembling to preserve the crema.
2. Add Sugar to the Mixing Cup
Place 1–2 teaspoons of sugar in a small metal cup or bowl.
Café Cubano is traditionally sweet — but you can adjust the amount to your taste.
3. Pour a Few Drops of Espresso Over the Sugar
When the first few drops of espresso start to flow (the most concentrated part), pour about a teaspoon into the sugar.
This step is crucial — it’s what creates the signature espuma (foam).
4. Whip the Sugar and Espresso
Using a spoon, whisk the sugar and espresso together vigorously for about 20–30 seconds until it turns thick and pale brown.
This creates a creamy, caramel-like foam.
5. Pour in the Rest of the Espresso
Slowly pour the remaining espresso over the whipped sugar mixture, stirring gently to combine.
You’ll see a beautiful layer of golden espuma form on top.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Pour into small espresso cups and serve immediately while hot.
It’s sweet, rich, and incredibly satisfying — a perfect pick-me-up at any time of day.
💡 Tips for the Perfect Café Cubano
- Use dark roast coffee beans for authentic flavor and depth.
- Always whip the sugar with the first drops of espresso — this step defines the drink.
- For a stronger crema, use unrefined sugar like turbinado or demerara.
- Serve in small espresso cups — Café Cubano is meant to be sipped, not gulped.
- Want to make it traditional? Pair it with Cuban toast or pastries.
❤️ Why You’ll Love Café Cubano Coffee
The Café Cubano is more than a drink — it’s a tradition filled with warmth and flavor.
The combination of bold espresso and sweet, frothy espuma creates a unique coffee experience that’s both energizing and comforting.
Whether shared with friends or enjoyed alone, it captures the heart of Cuban coffee culture: strong, sweet, and made with love.
DeliciousPath: Enjoyment in Every Moment
Explore the Gourmet on Board category for exquisite flavors that elevate your meals, even when you’re on a boat, and the Coffee category for aromatic coffee blends that make every moment special. DeliciousPath is here to turn every experience into something unforgettable!
