Welcome to "The Coffee Calendar: Yearly Recipes for Coffee Fans," your guide to exploring the delightful world of coffee through the lens of the seasons. Each month, we invite you to try a new coffee recipe that captures the essence of the time of year, from warming winter concoctions to refreshing summer brews. Whether you're a seasoned barista or a casual coffee drinker, these recipes are crafted to add a little extra joy to your daily routine with flavors that complement the seasonal mood. Dive into this collection and discover how your coffee routine can transform into a year-long celebration of taste and tradition. Let's brew something wonderful together!
January – Hazelnut Hot Chocolate Coffee Recipe
Kick off the year with a warm and comforting Hazelnut Hot Chocolate Coffee. This cozy beverage combines the rich, nutty flavors of hazelnut with the creamy, chocolaty goodness of hot chocolate, making it the perfect treat for cold January days. It's a delightful twist on your regular coffee routine and sure to become a winter favorite.
Ingredients:
1 cup of brewed hazelnut coffee (Use a strong brew to ensure the coffee flavor shines through.)
2 tablespoons of cocoa powder (Choose a high-quality cocoa powder for the best taste.)
1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar (Adjust based on your sweetness preference.)
½ cup of milk (Any kind of milk will work, whether dairy or plant-based.)
Whipped cream (For topping)
Chocolate shavings or hazelnut pieces (For garnish)
Optional: A dash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor
Instructions:
Prepare the Hazelnut Coffee: Brew your hazelnut coffee to your liking. Aim for a stronger brew to complement the cocoa powder's richness.
Mix Cocoa and Sugar: In a saucepan, combine the cocoa powder and sugar. Add about 2 tablespoons of the brewed coffee to the saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir continuously until the cocoa and sugar dissolve into a smooth paste. This step helps prevent lumps in your hot chocolate coffee.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the remaining hazelnut coffee along with the milk. Keep the heat to medium and stir the mixture until it's thoroughly heated. Avoid boiling to maintain the milk's sweetness and prevent scalding.
Add Vanilla (Optional): If using, stir in a dash of vanilla extract into your hot chocolate coffee mixture. This enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a layer of warmth.
Serve with Garnish: Pour the Hazelnut Hot Chocolate Coffee into your favorite mug. Top generously with whipped cream, and garnish with chocolate shavings or hazelnut pieces for an extra touch of indulgence.
Enjoy: Savor your Hazelnut Hot Chocolate Coffee, letting the nutty, chocolaty flavors warm you up from the inside out. It's the perfect beverage to enjoy on a quiet winter morning or as an after-dinner treat.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair your Hazelnut Hot Chocolate Coffee with a biscotti or your favorite shortbread cookies for a delightful snack. It also goes wonderfully with a warm blanket and a good book, making it the ultimate winter comfort beverage.
Enjoy this luxurious and comforting Hazelnut Hot Chocolate Coffee, a recipe sure to brighten the coldest January days.
February- Vanilla Rose Latte
Ingredients:
2 shots of espresso (or 120 ml of strong brewed coffee if you don't have an espresso machine)
1 tablespoon rose water (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons vanilla syrup (store-bought or homemade)
200 ml whole milk (substitute with any plant-based milk for a vegan version)
Dried rose petals for garnish (optional)
Freshly ground pink peppercorn for a subtle spicy kick (optional)
Homemade Vanilla Syrup (Optional, if making from scratch):
1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Equipment:
Espresso machine or coffee maker
Milk frother or a small whisk
Small saucepan (if making homemade vanilla syrup)
Measuring spoons
Serving glass
Instructions:
If Making Homemade Vanilla Syrup:
Combine Sugar and Water: In a small saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow it to cool, then transfer to a container for storage.
Making the Latte:
Brew Espresso: Start by brewing your espresso or strong coffee into a large cup or glass.
Mix Flavors: Stir the rose water, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of the vanilla syrup into the brewed coffee. Adjust the rose water and syrup quantities based on your taste preference.
Froth the Milk: Heat the milk until it's warm but not boiling. Use a milk frother or whisk to froth the milk until it's smooth and foamy.
Combine: Gently pour the frothed milk into the coffee mixture, holding back the foam with a spoon to let the milk mix in first, then spooning the foam on top.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with dried rose petals and a sprinkle of freshly ground pink peppercorn if using. Enjoy your beautifully aromatic Vanilla Rose Latte!
This Vanilla Rose Latte is a perfect way to add a little luxury to your daily routine or to impress your loved ones with a homemade specialty coffee. The floral aroma of rose, combined with the sweet depth of vanilla, makes this latte an unforgettable treat.
March - Irish Cream Coffee
Ingredients:
For the Non-Alcoholic Irish Cream:
1 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
1 teaspoon instant coffee granules (dissolve in a tablespoon of hot water)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the Coffee:
1 cup (240 ml) hot brewed strong coffee (preferably a robust blend to mimic the traditional Irish coffee flavor)
Whipped cream, for topping
Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings, for garnish
Equipment:
Blender or whisk
Coffee maker
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving mug
Instructions:
Preparing the Non-Alcoholic Irish Cream:
Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate syrup, dissolved instant coffee, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Blend until smooth. If you don't have a blender, whisk vigorously in a large bowl until well combined.
Refrigerate: Transfer the mixture to a sealed container and refrigerate. This homemade Irish cream can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Brewing the Coffee and Assembly:
Brew Coffee: Brew 1 cup of strong coffee. The strength of the coffee is crucial as it needs to balance the sweetness of the Irish cream.
Warm the Irish Cream: Gently warm about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the homemade Irish cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Do not boil, just warm it through.
Combine: Pour the hot coffee into a large mug, followed by the warmed non-alcoholic Irish cream. Stir well to combine.
Top and Garnish: Top with a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an extra special touch.
Enjoy your homemade Irish Cream Coffee, a perfect beverage to warm up your March and celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style. This recipe provides a wonderful balance of coffee, creaminess, and a hint of chocolate, ensuring a delightful experience in every sip.
April - Caramel Spring Iced Coffee
Ingredients:
1 cup (240 ml) cold brew coffee (See instructions below if making from scratch)
2 tablespoons caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling
1/2 cup (120 ml) milk or a dairy-free alternative
Ice cubes
Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Sea salt flakes, for a salted caramel twist (optional)
For Homemade Cold Brew Coffee (Optional):
1 cup (100g) coarsely ground coffee beans
4 cups (960 ml) water
Equipment:
Large jar or pitcher (for cold brew, if making)
Coffee filter or cheesecloth (for cold brew, if making)
Measuring spoons and cups
Glass for serving
Instructions:
If Making Homemade Cold Brew Coffee:
Combine Coffee and Water: In a large jar, mix the ground coffee with water. Stir well to ensure all the grounds are fully saturated.
Steep Overnight: Cover and let the mixture steep at room temperature for 12-24 hours, depending on how strong you prefer your cold brew.
Strain: After steeping, strain the coffee through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a clean jar or pitcher. Your cold brew concentrate is ready. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.
Preparing the Caramel Spring Iced Coffee:
Prepare the Coffee: Fill a glass with ice cubes to the brim. Pour 1 cup of cold brew coffee over the ice.
Add Caramel: Stir in 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce until fully dissolved. Adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness.
Add Milk: Pour in the milk or your choice of dairy-free alternative. Stir well to combine everything together.
Garnish: Top with whipped cream if desired, and drizzle with additional caramel sauce. For a salted caramel version, sprinkle a few sea salt flakes on top.
Enjoy your Caramel Spring Iced Coffee, a perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and coffee flavors that's sure to refresh and delight. This drink is not only easy to make but also wonderfully versatile, allowing you to adjust the sweetness and strength to suit your taste. It's an ideal companion for those sunny April afternoons.
May - Coconut Cream Cold Brew
Ingredients:
For the Coconut Cream Mixture:
1 cup (240 ml) canned coconut cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (adjust sweetness to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coffee:
1 cup (240 ml) cold brew coffee or chilled strongly brewed coffee
Ice cubes
Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish
Optional: Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Equipment:
Hand mixer or whisk
Coffee maker or cold brew maker
Measuring spoons and cups
Serving glass
Instructions:
If Using Standard Coffee:
Brew Strong Coffee: If you don’t have a cold brew setup, simply brew a strong cup of coffee using double the amount of coffee grounds you would normally use. Allow it to cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator.
Preparing the Coconut Cream:
Whip the Coconut Cream: In a bowl, combine the coconut cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to whip the mixture until it's light and creamy.
Assembling the Drink:
Prepare the Glass: Fill a serving glass with ice cubes.
Add Coffee: Pour the chilled cold brew or strong brewed coffee over the ice.
Layer Coconut Cream: Gently spoon the whipped coconut cream over the coffee. The cream should float on top, creating a beautiful layer.
Garnish: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes and optionally, chocolate shavings over the top for added flavor and a decorative touch.
Enjoy your Coconut Cream Cold Brew! This drink offers a luxurious texture and tropical flavors that are perfect for welcoming the warmer days of May. It’s a simple yet exotic treat that you can easily make at home, bringing a bit of island flair to your daily coffee routine.
June - Peachy Iced Vanilla Coffee Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup (240 ml) brewed coffee, chilled
1 ripe peach, pitted and sliced (reserve some slices for garnish)
2 tablespoons vanilla syrup
Ice cubes
1/2 cup (120 ml) milk or a dairy-free alternative
Optional: whipped cream, for topping
Equipment:
Blender
Coffee maker
Measuring spoons and cups
Glass for serving
Instructions:
1. Brew and Chill Coffee:
Brew a standard cup of coffee. It's best to make the coffee a bit stronger than usual since it will be diluted with ice and other ingredients. Allow the coffee to cool, then refrigerate until cold.
2. Prepare Peach Puree:
In a blender, combine the slices of one peach with a little water or milk to help blend smoothly.
Puree the peach until smooth. If you prefer a sweeter taste or a more pronounced vanilla flavor, you can add an extra tablespoon of vanilla syrup directly into the puree.
3. Assemble the Drink:
Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Pour the chilled coffee over the ice.
Add the peach puree and vanilla syrup to the coffee. Stir well to mix the flavors.
Slowly pour the milk over the back of a spoon to help it float on top, creating a layered effect.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Top with whipped cream if desired.
Garnish with fresh peach slices.
Stir before drinking to mix all the flavors together.
Enjoy your Peachy Iced Vanilla Coffee! This drink combines the natural sweetness of peaches with the creamy richness of vanilla, offering a perfect balance to the robust flavor of coffee. It's an ideal beverage for early summer mornings or a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.
July - Berries & Cream Iced Coffee Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup (240 ml) brewed strong coffee, chilled
1/2 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), fresh or frozen
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative
Ice cubes
Optional: additional berries for garnish, whipped cream
Equipment:
Blender
Coffee maker
Measuring spoons and cups
Glass for serving
Instructions:
1. Brew and Chill Coffee:
Brew a standard cup of coffee. It's best to make the coffee a bit stronger than usual since it will be diluted with ice and other ingredients. Allow the coffee to cool, then refrigerate until cold.
2. Prepare Peach Puree:
In a blender, combine the slices of one peach with a little water or milk to help blend smoothly.
Puree the peach until smooth. If you prefer a sweeter taste or a more pronounced vanilla flavor, you can add an extra tablespoon of vanilla syrup directly into the puree.
3. Assemble the Drink:
Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Pour the chilled coffee over the ice.
Add the peach puree and vanilla syrup to the coffee. Stir well to mix the flavors.
Slowly pour the milk over the back of a spoon to help it float on top, creating a layered effect.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Top with whipped cream if desired.
Garnish with fresh peach slices.
Stir before drinking to mix all the flavors together.
Enjoy your Berries & Cream Iced Coffee! This vibrant and deliciously creamy iced coffee is perfect for savoring on a hot July day, providing a refreshing berry blast with each sip. It’s a festive way to enjoy the season’s best flavors while getting your caffeine fix.
August - Spiced Cold Brew Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Spiced Syrup:
1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cinnamon stick
5 whole cloves
1 star anise
1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
1 small piece of fresh ginger, sliced
For the Cold Brew Coffee:
1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
4 cups water
Equipment:
Large jar or pitcher for cold brewing
Coffee filter or cheesecloth
Small saucepan for the syrup
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving glass
Instructions:
Prepare the Cold Brew:
Combine Coffee and Water: In a large jar, mix the coarsely ground coffee with 4 cups of cold water. Stir gently to ensure all the coffee grounds are saturated.
Steep: Cover the jar and let it steep at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours, depending on your preference for strength.
Strain: After steeping, strain the coffee concentrate through a coffee filter or a cheesecloth into another jar or pitcher. Store the concentrate in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Make the Spiced Syrup:
Combine Ingredients for Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, ginger, and the vanilla bean (or extract). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Cool and Strain: Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool. Once cool, strain out the spices and store the syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Assemble the Spiced Cold Brew:
Prepare the Glass: Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Add Cold Brew: Pour about 1 cup of cold brew coffee over the ice.
Sweeten: Add the spiced syrup to taste, starting with 1 tablespoon and adjusting according to your preference.
Stir and Serve: Stir well to mix the coffee and syrup. Optionally, you can add a splash of cream or milk to add richness.
Enjoy your Spiced Cold Brew! This drink not only provides a refreshing chill but also brings a delightful complexity with its aromatic spices, making it a perfect pick-me-up during the hot days of August.
September - Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, plus more for garnish
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup (120 ml) brewed espresso or strong coffee
1 cup (240 ml) milk (dairy or any plant-based alternative)
Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Equipment:
Small saucepan
Whisk
Coffee maker or espresso machine
Measuring spoons and cups
Mug for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare Pumpkin Mixture:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and sugar. Cook for about 1 minute or until it’s hot and smells cooked. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Brew Coffee or Espresso:
While the pumpkin mixture is heating, brew your espresso or strong coffee. If using a coffee maker, aim for a stronger brew to mimic the intensity of espresso.
3. Add Milk to Pumpkin Mixture:
Pour the milk into the saucepan with the pumpkin mixture. Whisk vigorously until the milk is well incorporated and the mixture starts to steam. Do not let it boil to prevent scalding the milk.
4. Combine Coffee and Pumpkin Milk:
Pour the brewed espresso or coffee into a large mug. Add the hot pumpkin spiced milk mixture.
5. Top and Serve:
If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for an extra touch of indulgence.
Stir the latte well before drinking to blend all the flavors together.
Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte! This recipe not only brings the essence of autumn into your cup but also allows you to customize the sweetness and spice levels to your taste. It's a warm, comforting beverage that’s perfect for crisp September mornings or cozy afternoons.
October - Toasty Marshmallow Mocha Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup (240 ml) brewed strong coffee or espresso
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (dairy or any plant-based alternative)
1/4 cup marshmallow creme or several marshmallows
Whipped cream, for topping
Toasted marshmallows and chocolate shavings, for garnish
Equipment:
Small saucepan
Whisk
Coffee maker or espresso machine
Measuring spoons and cups
Mug for serving
Torch for toasting marshmallows (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Coffee or Espresso:
Brew your coffee or espresso strongly to ensure it holds up against the rich mocha and marshmallow flavors.
2. Make Mocha Base:
In a small saucepan, combine the cocoa powder and sugar with a little bit of the brewed coffee to create a smooth paste.
Gradually add the rest of the coffee while stirring to keep the mixture smooth.
Heat the mixture over medium heat until hot, but not boiling.
3. Heat Milk:
In a separate saucepan, warm the milk until it starts to steam. Be careful not to let it boil to avoid scalding.
4. Combine Coffee and Milk:
Pour the hot chocolate-coffee mixture into a large mug.
Add the warmed milk and stir to combine everything thoroughly.
5. Add Marshmallow:
Stir in the marshmallow creme until well dissolved and smooth. Alternatively, place marshmallows in the mug and allow them to melt slightly (a torch can be used to toast the marshmallows lightly if you like a more toasted flavor).
6. Top and Serve:
Top with whipped cream.
Garnish with toasted marshmallows and chocolate shavings for an extra festive touch.
Enjoy your Toasty Marshmallow Mocha! This cozy and luxurious drink is perfect for savoring on chilly October evenings or weekend mornings. It offers a delightful blend of mocha and marshmallow, topped with a touch of creaminess and the fun of toasted marshmallows.
November - Cinnamon Apple Coffee Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup (240 ml) brewed strong coffee
1/2 cup apple cider
1 cinnamon stick (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
2 tablespoons caramel syrup
Whipped cream, for topping
A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg, for garnish
Optional: Sliced apple, for garnish
Equipment:
Small saucepan
Coffee maker
Measuring spoons and cups
Mug for serving
Instructions:
1. Brew Coffee:
Brew your coffee strongly to balance the sweetness of the apple and caramel flavors.
2. Heat Apple Cider with Cinnamon:
In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider and a cinnamon stick. Bring to a slight simmer over medium heat. Allow the cinnamon to infuse for about 5-10 minutes. If using ground cinnamon, stir it directly into the apple cider.
3. Combine Coffee and Apple Cider:
Remove the cinnamon stick from the apple cider (if used) and pour the warm spiced cider into the brewed coffee. Stir in the caramel syrup until well combined.
4. Serve:
Pour the mixture into a large mug.
Top with whipped cream and sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon or nutmeg over it for extra spice.
Optionally, garnish with a fresh apple slice on the rim of the mug.
Enjoy your Cinnamon Apple Coffee! This drink is a wonderful treat for those chilly autumn days, offering a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and rich coffee flavors. It's like a cozy sweater in a cup, ideal for sipping while wrapped in a blanket or sitting by a fire.
December - Peppermint Mocha Twist Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup (240 ml) brewed strong coffee or espresso
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (dairy or any plant-based alternative)
Whipped cream, for topping
Crushed peppermint candy or candy canes, for garnish
Optional: Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Equipment:
Small saucepan
Whisk
Coffee maker or espresso machine
Measuring spoons and cups
Mug for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare Coffee or Espresso:
Brew your coffee or espresso strongly to ensure it holds up against the rich mocha flavors.
2. Make Mocha Base:
In a small saucepan, mix the cocoa powder and sugar with a little bit of the brewed coffee to create a smooth paste.
Gradually add the rest of the coffee while stirring to keep the mixture smooth.
Heat the mixture over medium heat until hot, but not boiling.
3. Add Peppermint and Milk:
Stir in the peppermint extract.
Heat the milk in a separate saucepan or microwave until it's warm but not boiling, then add it to the coffee and cocoa mixture.
4. Combine and Serve:
Pour the peppermint mocha into a large mug.
Top with a generous amount of whipped cream.
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the whipped cream, and if you like, add some chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.
Enjoy your Peppermint Mocha Twist! This drink is perfect for holiday mornings or as a cozy treat after a day of winter activities. The combination of peppermint and chocolate is not only classic but also irresistibly festive, making it a wonderful beverage to celebrate the season.
Conclusion:
"The Coffee Calendar: Yearly Recipes for Coffee Fans" guides you through a year filled with unique and delicious coffee-based beverages. From the cozy Hazelnut Hot Chocolate Coffee in January to the festive Peppermint Mocha Twist in December, each recipe celebrates the flavors of the seasons. These easy-to-follow recipes are designed for coffee lovers of all skill levels and aim to enhance your daily coffee ritual whether you're sharing with friends or savoring alone. Embark on this flavorful journey and enrich your year with each satisfying sip. Happy brewing!