The Cuban Coffee, also known as Café Cubano, is a traditional espresso drink famous for its rich sweetness and thick foam layer known as espuma.
It’s a bold and energizing coffee, made by combining freshly brewed espresso with sugar and whisking it into a creamy, caramel-colored froth.
This method is more than just a brewing style — it’s a cherished ritual that reflects the warmth and spirit of Cuban coffee culture.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 shots (60 ml) espresso (dark roast)
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar (traditionally brown or raw sugar)
🛠️ Equipment
- Espresso machine or moka pot
- Metal creamer or small cup for mixing
- Spoon for whipping
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Process
1. Brew the Espresso
Prepare two shots of strong espresso using a dark roast blend.
If using a moka pot, heat water first to preserve the crema and aroma.
2. Add Sugar to the Mixing Cup
Place 2 teaspoons of sugar in a small cup or metal creamer.
The sugar is key to creating the signature foam of the Café Cubano.
3. Add a Few Drops of Espresso
Once your espresso starts brewing, pour about a teaspoon of the first few drops into the sugar.
These first drops are the most concentrated and flavorful.
4. Whip the Sugar and Espresso
Using a spoon, beat the sugar and espresso together vigorously for about 30 seconds.
The mixture should turn pale and creamy — this is your espuma.
5. Combine and Serve
Pour the remaining espresso into the sugar mixture slowly, stirring gently as you go.
The espuma will rise to the top, forming a light, foamy layer.
Serve immediately in small espresso cups.
💡 Tips for the Perfect Cuban Coffee
- Use dark roast beans — Cuban coffee is traditionally strong and intense.
- Always whisk the sugar with the first drops of espresso, not after — that’s how you get real espuma.
- Use unrefined sugar (like demerara or turbinado) for a more authentic flavor.
- Serve in small cups — Café Cubano is meant to be shared in small sips.
- For a twist, add a splash of evaporated milk to make Café con Leche Cubano.
❤️ Why You’ll Love Cuban Coffee
The Cuban Coffee is pure energy and sweetness in a cup.
It’s strong, smooth, and satisfying — the perfect mix of espresso intensity and sugary richness.
Each sip offers a taste of tradition and togetherness, a drink that’s as much about community as it is about flavor.
Once you experience its bold charm, you’ll see why it’s beloved from Havana to Miami.
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!
