How to Make Cafezinho (Step-by-Step)
Honestly, it’s one of the simplest ways to brew strong, sweet coffee without gear. You only need a few ingredients and a few minutes on the stovetop. So, let me walk you through:
Equipment
- Small Saucepan:
- Coador (cloth coffee strainer) or paper cone filter
- Heat source (stovetop or portable burner)
- Small espresso-style cups
Ingredients
- Ground Brazilian coffee (or any medium-dark roast)
- Filtered water
- Granulated sugar
- Optional: cinnamon stick or cardamom for a twist
Instructions
- Boil Water with Sugar: Start by adding sugar directly into your water about 1–2 teaspoons per serving. Bring it to a boil in a small saucepan. This creates a sweet, syrupy base that gives Cafezinho its signature flavor.
- Add Ground Coffee: Stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of finely ground coffee for every 6 oz of water. Let it steep for 30 seconds to 1 minute, but don’t overdo it—you want bold, not bitter. A gentle stir helps blend everything evenly.
- Strain and Serve: Pour the coffee mixture slowly through your coador or a cone filter into your serving cup. It should come out smooth, slightly thick, and deeply aromatic. No cream is needed—Cafezinho is always served in black and sweet.