Coffee drinks

Make a jar of syrup first and most drinks come together in minutes. No espresso machine is needed: a moka pot, AeroPress or extra-strong brewed coffee works in nearly every recipe. Adjust sweetness to taste, swap in oat or almond milk for a dairy-free drink, and keep cold brew concentrate in the fridge for quick iced coffee.

Common questions

How do you make iced coffee that isn't watery?

Brew the coffee stronger than usual, about double strength, so it holds up when the ice melts. Let hot coffee cool for a few minutes before pouring it over a full glass of ice, or chill it ahead. Cold brew concentrate is naturally strong and smooth. You can also freeze leftover coffee in ice cube trays and use those instead of regular ice.

Can you make a latte without an espresso machine?

Yes. Use 1/4 to 1/2 cup of very strong coffee from a moka pot, AeroPress or French press, or dissolve instant espresso powder in hot water. Heat milk until steaming, around 150F, then froth it and pour it over the coffee. A latte is mostly milk, so strong coffee in place of espresso still gives a good result.

How do you froth milk without a frother?

Fill a clean jar no more than halfway with milk, seal it and shake hard for 30 to 60 seconds until it doubles in volume. For hot foam, remove the lid and microwave for about 30 seconds to set the bubbles. A French press also works: pump the plunger quickly in warm milk. Whole milk and barista-style oat milk foam best.

How do you make cold foam at home?

Whisk cold heavy cream with 2% milk and a little vanilla syrup, using roughly equal parts cream and milk. A handheld frother makes thick, pourable foam in about 30 seconds, and a jar shaken hard for a minute works too. Keep everything cold, since warm cream won't hold its shape. Spoon the foam over iced coffee or cold brew.