Senior Coffee Recipe

Brew strong coffee

Measure 2 tablespoons coarsely ground dark roast coffee and place in a French press or drip basket. Heat 8 oz (about 1 cup) water to 200°F (just off boiling) and pour over grounds. Brew for 4 minutes if using a French press, or brew according to your drip brewer. Press or finish brewing and transfer 1 cup of the hot strong coffee to a heatproof serving mug.

If you prefer a milder or stronger drink, adjust the coffee grounds amount or water volume proportionally.

Heat and froth milk

Combine 1 cup whole milk and 2 tablespoons heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Warm gently until steaming and tiny bubbles form around the edge (do not boil), about 3–4 minutes. If you have a milk frother, froth until creamy; alternatively whisk briskly for 30 seconds to create light foam.

If you want a cold version, use cold milk and cold heavy cream and shake vigorously in a jar with ice until slightly frothy, then strain over prepared coffee.

Sweeten and flavor

Stir 1 teaspoon brown sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the hot brewed coffee until dissolved. Add a pinch of ground cinnamon and (if using) 1 teaspoon orange zest; stir to combine. Taste and adjust sugar or vanilla to preference.

Pour the warmed milk and cream mixture over the flavored coffee, holding back foam with a spoon and then spooning foam on top. Stir gently to incorporate but leave a light foam layer.

Grate a small dusting (about 1/4 teaspoon) of fresh nutmeg over the foam and add an orange twist on the rim or floated on top for aroma. Serve immediately.