Name: The Clubhouse at Hekate's Retreats Specialty Coffees And Snacks Recipe
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 shots espresso (double shot); 8 fl oz whole milk; 1 tbs vanilla syrup; 1 tsp ground green cardamom; 1 tsp sugar; 2 tbs optional: whipped cream; 0.25 tsp garnish: ground cinnamon; 2 slices sourdough bread slices; 1 whole ripe avocado; 3 oz cold-smoked salmon; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil; 0.25 tsp sea salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 0.25 cups microgreens or arugula; 1 tsp capers (optional); 1 cups Greek yogurt (plain, 2% or whole); 0.75 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 1 tsp honey; 0.25 cups granola; 1 tbs toasted sliced almonds; 1 cups filtered water (for espresso machine and cleaning); 1 wedge lemon wedge (garnish for toast)

Method

Vanilla Cardamom Latte

Prepare espresso

Pull a double shot (2 shots) of espresso into a pre-warmed cup. If you don't have an espresso machine, brew a concentrated 4 fl oz strong coffee and use that instead.

Infuse milk

In a small saucepan, combine 8 fl oz whole milk, 1 tsp ground green cardamom, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tbs vanilla syrup. Warm over medium-low heat until steaming (do not boil), whisking occasionally to dissolve the sugar and disperse cardamom. Remove from heat.

Steam or froth milk

If you have a steam wand, steam the infused milk until velvety and about 140–150°F (60–65°C). If not, froth vigorously with a handheld frother or whisk for 20–30 seconds to create microfoam.

Assemble

Pour the espresso into a serving glass/cup. Gently pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back foam with a spoon, then spoon the foam on top. Top with an optional 2 tbs whipped cream, and finish with a light dusting of 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon.

Smoked Salmon Avocado Toast

Toast bread

Toast 2 slices of sourdough until golden and crisp at the edges.

Prepare avocado spread

Halve and pit the avocado. In a bowl, scoop avocado flesh and mash with 1 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1/4 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until slightly chunky but spreadable.

Build toast

Spread the avocado mixture evenly over the toasted sourdough slices.

Add salmon and garnishes

Top each slice with approximately 1.5 oz (total 3 oz) cold-smoked salmon, scatter 1 tsp capers (if using), and a small handful (about 0.25 cups) of microgreens or arugula. Drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil (from the avocado step) or a squeeze of lemon wedge for brightness.

Finish and serve

Serve immediately while the toast is crisp. Offer the lemon wedge on the side for extra acidity.

Chilled Berry Parfait (Snack)

Sweeten yogurt

Stir 1 tsp honey into 1 cup Greek yogurt until evenly sweetened.

Layer parfait

In a small glass or bowl, spoon half the sweetened yogurt, then half the mixed berries (about 0.375 cups), then sprinkle 2 tbs granola (use half of 0.25 cup) or adjust to preference. Repeat with remaining yogurt and berries, finishing with remaining granola and 1 tbs toasted sliced almonds on top.

Chill and serve

If not serving immediately, chill for up to 30 minutes to meld flavors. Serve cold.

Service & Finishing

Ensure the espresso machine has fresh filtered water. Clean any drips and present the latte on a saucer with a small spoon. Plate the smoked salmon avocado toast on a warm plate and serve the berry parfait in a chilled glass for contrast. Deliver to the table with a friendly description of the items and the option to add extra syrup, salt, or pepper to taste.