How To Make Café de Olla (Step-by-Step Recipe)

I like the fact that you don’t need any fancy equipment. So here's what I suggest:

Total Time 20

Clay Pot (Olla de Barro): This traditional pot gives a unique flavor. But if you don’t have one, any large saucepan or pot will work.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the spices and coffee without scratching your pot.
Fine Mesh Strainer: Essential for separating the coffee grounds and spices from the final brew.
Measuring cups To get the perfect water-to-coffee ratio.
Clay Mugs or Regular Cups: Traditional clay mugs add authenticity, but any heatproof cup works too.

Ground Coffee: Medium-dark roast works best for a bold flavor.
Piloncillo: If you can’t find this traditional Mexican cane sugar, substitute with brown sugar for a similar taste.
Cinnamon Sticks: These add warmth and spice to the brew.
Water: The base for your coffee infusion.
Cloves (optional): For a touch of earthy spice.
Star Anise (optional): Adds a sweet, licorice-like note.
Orange Peel (optional): Brings a hint of citrus to brighten the flavor.

Heat the Water and Spices: Start by combining water, piloncillo, cinnamon sticks, and any optional spices (like cloves or orange peel) in your pot.
Then heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the piloncillo is fully dissolved. The kitchen will start to smell incredible—like warm and spicy caramel!
Add the Coffee: Once your water is infused with the spices, reduce the heat slightly and stir in your ground coffee. Make sure to use a wooden spoon or similar tool to gently mix it in.
Simmer and Steep: Allow the coffee mixture to simmer on low heat for about 5-10 minutes, but avoid letting it boil (that can make the coffee bitter). Once done, remove it from the heat and let it steep for another 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Strain and Serve: Using a fine mesh strainer, carefully strain out the coffee grounds and spices. Afterward, serve your Café de Olla hot in traditional clay mugs for an authentic touch, or any heatproof cup if you don’t have those handy.
You can also garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange peel for an extra special presentation.