How to Make a Creamy Raf Coffee (4 Easy Steps)

Last updated on January 6th, 2025 at 03:41 pm

Have you ever taken a sip of coffee and thought, “Wow, this is dessert in a cup!”? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I tried Raf Coffee.

I’ve always been a fan of classic cappuccinos and lattes. Those were my favorite drinks. But one day, while visiting a Russian friend, he handed me this incredibly creamy and sweet coffee. I took one sip and immediately asked, “What is this thing?”

He laughed and said, “It’s called Raf Coffee. It’s a Russian thing—simple, but so good.” And he was right.

The way the cream, sugar, and espresso were steamed together created this creamy, almost caramel-like drink that was unlike anything I’d ever tried. So after that, I decided, “Well, it’s time to learn something new.”

In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Raf Coffee. From its origins to how you can easily make it at home and more. So, let’s start brewing!

What Is Raf Coffee?

This coffee was first created in Moscow in the 1990s when a customer named Rafael asked for something different at a café. The barista whipped up a blend of espresso, cream, and sugar, steamed together instead of layering the ingredients like most traditional coffee drinks.

This resulted in a creamy, sweet, and completely enjoyable cup that quickly became a hit.

Difference Between Other Similar Drinks

In contrast to a latte or cappuccino, milk and coffee are layered or poured separately. The Raf Coffee involves steaming the cream, sugar, and espresso all together.

This technique gives the drink its smooth, velvety texture and an almost caramel-like flavor.

Note: The taste is what truly makes it different. You can expect a rich and sweet, but not overpowering, with a lightness that makes you want to sip slowly and savor every drop.

Other Options of Raf Coffee

Here are some of my favorite variations I’ve tried, plus a few tips to make them work for you.

Vanilla Raf Coffee

Just add a splash of vanilla extract or swap regular sugar for vanilla-flavored sugar for a classic twist. It’s amazing how much depth vanilla can bring without overpowering the drink’s creamy richness. I often use this version when I want something simple yet flavorful.

Honey Raf Coffee

If you prefer natural sweetness, replace sugar with a teaspoon of honey. The honey adds a subtle floral note that blends beautifully with the cream and espresso.

Pro tip: go for light honey varieties, as darker ones can overpower the other flavors.

Spiced Raf Coffee

I like this one for chilly days! You can add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom to the mixture before steaming. The warm spices make it feel like a dessert-style coffee treat.

Iced Raf Coffee

On a warm day, there’s nothing better than an iced version. Let the coffee-cream mixture cool completely, then pour it over a glass of ice. I find this ideal for summer afternoons or when you need something refreshing.

Tips for Making the Perfect Raf Coffee

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tips to make it perfect every time. So, here are some suggestions:

1 – Favorite Coffee Brands

I love using a medium-dark roast with chocolatey or nutty notes because it balances the sweetness perfectly.

So, two brands I keep coming back to are Lavazza for its smooth, rich flavor and a local roaster with a bold espresso blend that adds depth.

2 – Adjust Sweetness

Not everyone has the same sweet tooth, and that’s totally fine. I recommend starting with a teaspoon of sugar or vanilla sugar and taste-test as you go.

Some days, I crave more sweetness, especially if I’m skipping dessert. While other times, just a hint is enough to let the cream and coffee shine.

3 – Lighter Version

If you’re looking for a less heavy version, try swapping heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based alternative like oat cream.

The texture won’t be as rich, but it’s still satisfying. Plus, it’s a great option if you’re watching calories or just want something a little easier on the palate.

4 – Experiment with Flavorings

One of my favorite things about Raf Coffee is how versatile it is. You may add a splash of vanilla extract for a classic twist, or go bold with cinnamon, cardamom, or even hazelnut syrup.

Every time I try something new, I end up with a fresh take on this already delicious drink.

Last Thoughts

Have you tried Raf Coffee before? Share your tips, favorite twists, or even questions in the comments below. I’d love to hear everything and with that voilà!