Cuban coffee, renowned for its robust flavor and cultural significance, is a staple in Cuban daily life and social rituals. Characterized by its unique preparation method and the use of finely ground, dark-roasted coffee beans, Cuban coffee offers a distinct taste profile that sets it apart from other coffee varieties.
The traditional brewing process, often involving a Moka pot and the creation of a signature "espuma" a creamy foam on top of Cuban coffee, contributes to its rich and intense flavor.
Let us explore the intricacies of Cuban coffee, from its cultural importance to preparation types and how to enjoy it authentically.
History, Culture, and Tradition of Cuban Coffee
The early coffee plantations in southeastern Cuban communities showcase a cultural landscape reflecting colonial coffee production from the 19th to the early 20th century.
However, the Cuban Revolution of 1959 brought nationalization, leading to a sharp decline in production. Despite these challenges, coffee remained deeply woven into Cuban culture and daily life.
More than just a beverage, cafecito represents Cuban hospitality and social connection. This Cuban version of espresso is strong and sweet. It’s traditionally shared among friends and family, reinforcing a sense of community.
The practice of sobremesa—lingering at the table after a meal to enjoy coffee and conversation—underscores coffee’s role as a bridge for meaningful interactions.
The term “sobremesa” translates literally to "upon the table." It is a Spanish tradition that involves relaxing and engaging in conversation at the table after a meal.
Main Types of Cuban Coffee
There are four main types of Cuban coffee, all known for their strong and sweet taste, which is achieved by mixing sugar with finely ground, dark-roasted coffee.
Cuban coffee is typically dark roasted, enhancing its rich, smoky flavor and creating a more intense taste than lighter roasts. This roasting style is essential for achieving the strong profile that Cuban coffee is known for.
Cafecito
Also known as Café Cubano, a cafecito is a small but strong Cuban espresso shot sweetened by adding sugar. It is typically topped with a creamy foam, made by whipping sugar with the first few drops of espresso. Drinking Café Cubano is a daily ritual and symbol of Cuban hospitality, whether you are at home or in Cuban restaurants.
Colada
A colada is a larger serving of Café Cubano, typically about 4 to 6 espresso shots. It is served in a styrofoam cup, and smaller cups are provided for sharing. Sharing these espresso cups is culturally significant, fostering conversation and social interaction among friends and family.
Cortadito
A cortadito is a small shot of Cuban espresso "cut" with steamed milk. The steamed milk softens the strong coffee flavor, creating a balance between the coffee's richness and the milk's creaminess. Some prefer using evaporated milk for a sweeter taste in this Cuban shot.
Café con Leche
A Café con Leche is a Cuban espresso with a more generous amount of milk, similar to a latte. It's often enjoyed with bread and butter and is a comforting staple in Cuban homes.
Organic Farming Practices: Much of the coffee produced in Cuba is grown using organic farming practices. The beans are hand-picked, and the cultivation methods often avoid artificial fertilizers, contributing to the unique flavor profile of Cuban coffee. |
Equipment for Brewing Authentic Cuban Coffee at Home
Specific equipment is essential for preparing Cuban coffee at home, as this traditional beverage requires an authentic taste and texture.
Essential Tool | Why It Matters | |
 | Moka Pot | The primary apparatus required is the Moka pot, a stovetop coffee maker that produces the strong, espresso-like coffee that forms the base of Cuban coffee. |
 | Coffee Grinder | A coffee grinder is recommended for achieving a consistent grind size, which is crucial for the extraction process in a Moka pot. |
 | Measuring Tools | A digital kitchen scale ensures accurate coffee measurement, while a measuring spoon helps add the right amount of sugar for the signature espuma. |
 | Espuma Mixing Cup | A heat-resistant cup used to whip coffee and sugar into rich, frothy espuma. |
With the right equipment, you can recreate Cuban coffee's authentic taste and texture in your home. Invest in these essentials and enjoy every bold, frothy sip.
What Makes It Unique from the Rest
Cuban coffee is known for its rich flavor and signature sweetness. This beloved brew stands out from other types of coffee thanks to its unique preparation method.
Brewing Method
Unlike traditional espresso, Cuban coffee is brewed using a Moka pot, a stovetop espresso maker that produces a concentrated, bold shot. But what truly sets it apart is the way sugar is incorporated.
As the coffee begins to brew, the first few drops are vigorously whipped with demerara sugar, creating a frothy, caramel-like paste called espuma.
Demerara sugar gives Cuban coffee a unique flavor that is strong, rich, and sweet with caramel-like notes from the sugar. The espuma adds to this sweetness and creates a distinctive texture. While demerara sugar is traditional, you can also use white or brown sugar.
Flavor Profile
Cuban coffee isn’t just strong—it’s bold, rich, and naturally sweet. The caramelization of the sugar enhances its deep, indulgent flavor, making it noticeably smoother and sweeter than standard espresso.
While traditional espresso flavors vary based on the coffee bean’s origin, Cuban coffee consistently delivers a signature taste thanks to its unique preparation.
Coffee Bean Blend
A classic Cuban coffee blend often contains both Robusta and Arabica beans, resulting in a strong, full-bodied coffee with a higher caffeine content.
The Robusta beans add a slightly bitter, intense kick, while the Arabica beans contribute to balance and depth. This combination ensures an energy-packed cup for coffee lovers who enjoy a bold and invigorating brew.
How Is Traditional Cuban Coffee Made
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to making authentic Cuban coffee. Whether you want a Café con Leche to accommodate your family and friends or a Cuban pull to invigorate yourself, following these steps lets you enjoy Cuban coffee to its fullest.
1 - Set Up Your Moka Pot
The Moka pot operates by passing boiling water pressurized by steam through ground coffee, resulting in a rich and robust brew.
- Fill the Bottom Chamber: Add water to the Moka pot's lower chamber up to the safety valve
- Add Coffee: Use finely ground Cuban coffee, filling the filter basket without packing it tightly
- Assemble the Heat: Securely assemble the Moka pot and place it on the stove over medium heat
2 - Prepare the Espuma
The espuma (foam) is essential for the unique texture and sweetness of Cuban coffee:
- Sugar Measurement: Combine 2-3 tablespoons of sugar for every 4 ounces of brewed coffee in a small bowl.
- Whisking: As the first drops of coffee emerge from the Moka pot, pour them into the sugar.
The key to a good espuma is vigorous whisking. Don't be afraid to put some muscle into it; this helps create a light and airy foam. Use only the first drops of brewed coffee to make espuma, which is the most concentrated and flavorful.
Adjust sugar based on your sweetness preference, but remember that using too little sugar can make it difficult to form a proper foam for your authentic Cuban coffee.
3 - Brew the Coffee
Allow the remaining coffee to brew in the Moka pot. Monitor it closely to avoid overheating, which can lead to bitterness. Once brewed, gently mix the coffee with the prepared espuma.
4 - Serve and Savor
Pour the finished Cuban coffee into small espresso cups. Enjoy it with traditional Cuban snacks like tostadas or pastelitos.
Alternative Brewing Methods
While a Moka pot is traditional, you can also use other methods to make Cuban coffee:
- Espresso Machine or French Press
- Use an espresso machine or French press to brew strong coffee
- Follow similar steps for making espuma as mentioned above
- Phin Filter
- The process involves adding ground coffee and hot water, allowing it to drip through slowly
Other espresso, like Italian espresso, has a more varied flavor profile that can range from floral to fruity or smoky, depending on the beans used. It tends to be less sweet and can taste slightly bitter or acidic if consumed without sugar.
Regardless of the method, use finely ground dark roast coffee and adjust sugar to taste to maintain a strong flavor profile.
Local Festivals: In Miami, events like the Calle Ocho Festival celebrate Cuban culture, including coffee traditions. These festivals highlight the beverage and the broader cultural practices associated with it, such as music, dance, and food. |
Discover the Bold Flavors of Cuban Coffee
So, what is Cuban coffee? It is a burst of bold flavors, rich traditions, and a unique brewing style that brings people together. From cafecito to colada, every sip of Cuban coffee offers a taste of culture and community. Experience the deep, sweet aromas and full-bodied richness that make this coffee special.
Ready to bring this vibrant flavor to your cup? Bones Coffee Company has everything you need to enjoy Cuban coffee and other coffee types. We have a huge variety of flavors and beans, ensuring there is something for every coffee enthusiast. Explore our coffee selections now!
