Tim Hortons Recipe

1. Brew coffee

Measure 0.5 cup medium-dark roast coffee grounds for 4 cups of water (standard drip ratio ~1:16). Place grounds in a drip coffee maker or French press. Add 4 cups water and brew according to your brewer's instructions until a full 4 cups of strong coffee is produced.

2. If you prefer extra strength like a Tim Hortons cup, dissolve 1 tsp instant coffee granules into 2 tablespoons of the hot brewed coffee, then stir back into the pot to boost body and aroma.

3. Warm and combine dairy

While coffee brews, gently warm 1 cup 2% milk and 1/2 cup half-and-half in a small saucepan over low heat until just steaming (do not boil). Warming brings the cup temperature closer to Tim Hortons' served temperature and helps the creamer blend smoothly.

4. If you prefer a lighter coffee, use 1 1/2 cups milk and omit half-and-half; for richer, use 1 1/2 cups half-and-half instead.

5. Sweeten the coffee

Add 2 tablespoons granulated sugar to the hot brewed coffee pot and stir until completely dissolved. If using vanilla syrup, add 1 tablespoon now and stir to incorporate. Taste and adjust: add up to 1 additional tablespoon sugar or syrup to match your preferred sweetness.

6. Pour the sweetened hot coffee into four cups, dividing evenly (about 1 cup each).

7. For each cup, add 1/4 cup warmed milk/half-and-half mixture (or adjust to taste). Stir gently to combine. The final ratio approximates Tim Hortons' mild, slightly creamy coffee.

8. If desired, finish with a light 0.25 teaspoon sprinkle of groundnut (peanut) or a dash of cinnamon on top for aroma. Serve immediately.

9. If making ahead for a carafe, keep brewed coffee hot in a thermal carafe and add milk/cream per cup when serving to maintain flavor and texture.