Cafe Dios Recipe

Brew

Brew 2 cups of very strong coffee (use a dark-roast blend, French press at a 1:12 ratio, or pull two double espressos). If using espresso concentrate, reserve about 2 cups combined and keep 1/2 cup hot water available to adjust strength.

While coffee is hot, pour it into a heatproof pitcher or pot so you can mix in sweeteners thoroughly.

Add the 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar to the hot coffee and stir until fully dissolved. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and the 1/2 teaspoon orange zest if using. Taste and adjust: add up to 1 additional teaspoon of sugar if you prefer sweeter.

If the coffee concentration is extremely strong, add up to 1/2 cup hot water gradually to reach a bold but balanced strength.

Heat and Froth

Pour 1 cup whole milk into a small saucepan and warm over medium-low heat until it reaches about 150°F (65°C) — steam but do not boil. Alternatively, steam milk with an espresso wand to ~150°F. Reserve 1/4 cup extra milk for microfoam if you plan to create a layered top.

Froth the warmed milk using a handheld frother, French press (pump vigorously for 30–45 seconds), or frothing wand until you have smooth microfoam and volume has increased slightly. If you reserved extra milk, froth that too to produce a drier foam for topping.

Divide the flavored coffee between two warmed 10–12 oz mugs (about 1 cup coffee per serving).

Slowly pour the steamed milk over the coffee, holding back the foam with a spoon. Aim for roughly a 2:1 coffee-to-milk ratio (adjust to taste).

Spoon the milk microfoam on top to create a light cap. If you have extra drier foam, place a small dollop (about 1 tablespoon) atop each drink for texture.

Dust each cup lightly with 1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate. Optionally add 1 tablespoon whipped cream per cup for a richer finish.

Serve immediately while hot. Provide a small spoon and an extra pinch of cinnamon or orange zest at the table for guests who prefer more spice.