Creative Coffee Drinks to Try at Home
Whole bean coffee is more than just a morning ritual; it’s the foundation of countless creative coffee drinks you can make right in your kitchen. From refreshing cold brews to indulgent lattes, these recipes let you experiment with your favorite beans in new and exciting ways. Here are some simple yet creative coffee drinks that will take your coffee game to the next level.
Cinnamon Maple Cold Brew
Perfect For: Cold brew fans who want something a little different
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold brew coffee
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- Ice cubes
- Milk or cream (optional)
Instructions:
Mix the cold brew with maple syrup and cinnamon until well combined. Pour over ice, and add milk or cream if you’d like a smoother, creamier taste.
Tip: Use high-quality Colombia whole beans with chocolate notes or Brazilian coffee with caramel notes to complement the maple and cinnamon flavors.
2. Orange Mocha Delight
Perfect For: Those who like fruity flavors in their coffee
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 cup steamed milk (or milk alternative)
- 1 tbsp chocolate syrup
- ½ tsp orange zest
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
Brew the espresso and combine it with chocolate syrup. Pour steamed milk over the espresso, then top with orange zest and whipped cream.
Tip: Use espresso beans with a hint of fruitiness or acidity to pair well with the orange zest.
3. Cardamom Vanilla Iced Coffee
Perfect For: A unique twist on traditional iced coffee
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed coffee (chilled)
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Sweetener of choice
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
Combine chilled coffee, cardamom, and vanilla extract in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a glass filled with ice.
Tip: Cardamom adds a fragrant, spiced note, enhancing the depth of whole bean coffee with nutty or earthy profiles.
4. Honey Lavender Latte
Perfect For: A relaxing and aromatic drink
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 cup steamed milk
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp dried culinary lavender
Instructions:
Steep lavender in the hot espresso for about 30 seconds, then strain. Add honey, stir well, and combine with steamed milk. Top with a sprinkle of lavender.
Tip: Opt for Costa Rican whole beans with floral undertones to harmonize with the lavender.
5. Coffee Lemonade Sparkler
Perfect For: A refreshing, tangy coffee drink
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso or strong coffee
- ½ cup sparkling water
- ¼ cup fresh lemonade
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice for garnish
Instructions:
Brew the espresso, let it cool slightly, then combine it with lemonade and sparkling water over ice. Garnish with a lemon slice.
Tip: This drink is especially refreshing with Ugandan beans, which offer bright and fruity notes.
Exploring different ways to enjoy your whole bean coffee at home can add excitement to your coffee routine. Try these recipes, experiment with your favorite beans, and discover new flavors that bring out the best in each cup. Whether you like it sweet, spiced, or fruity, there’s a coffee drink here for every palate!