How To Make a Café Miel (5 Easy Steps)
This coffee is pretty easy for you to make at home. The secret? It's all in how you handle the honey and milk. One trick I’ve learned is to warm the honey slightly before stirring it into the espresso. This helps blend more easily, creating a smoother, consistent sweetness. I once skipped this step, and the honey clumped at the bottom of the cup.
Equipment
- Espresso Maker or Coffee Brewer: Whether you’re using an espresso machine, French press, or a simple drip coffee maker, make sure the coffee is bold and hot. A moka pot also works beautifully for that strong coffee kick.
- Milk Frother or Whisk: For steamed milk, a frother is the easiest tool, but a whisk or handheld milk frother works just as well. If you’re whisking by hand, just heat the milk on the stove and go to town until it’s foamy.
- Heatproof Mug or Glass: A sturdy cup is essential to hold your hot drink and showcase those beautiful layers if you’re feeling fancy.
- Small Spoon: For stirring in the honey and layering the milk. (Pro tip: Use the back of the spoon to help pour the milk slowly for that perfect café-style finish.)
Ingredients
- Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee: Use about 5-6 ounces (2/3 cup) for a standard serving.
- Honey: Adjust the sweetness to your taste, starting with 1-2 teaspoons.
- Steamed milk or a plant-based alternative: About 2-3 ounces (1/3 cup) for a balanced coffee-to-milk ratio.
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg: For garnish and a touch of warmth.
- A dash of vanilla extract (optional): Adds extra depth and coziness.
- Whipped cream (optional): For added indulgence on special days (or any day, really).
Instructions
- Brew the Espresso or Coffee: Start with high-quality espresso or a bold coffee. Make sure it’s hot and freshly brewed to bring out the best flavors.
- Prepare the Milk: Steam the milk until it’s frothy and warm. No steamer? Heat the milk on the stove and whisk vigorously for foam—trust me, it works!
- Combine Espresso and Honey: Add 1-2 teaspoons of honey to your brewed coffee. Stir until it’s fully dissolved (my warm honey trick really helps here).
- Add Steamed Milk: Slowly pour the steamed milk over the espresso-honey mixture, aiming for a 2:1 coffee-to-milk ratio. Leave a little room at the top for foam or garnish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top for that signature Café Miel flair. Serve it up immediately and enjoy the cozy, sweet flavors!
Video
Notes
This simple recipe is as flexible as it is delicious—adjust the ratios, add a splash of vanilla, or even try a plant-based milk for your perfect cup.