BREWING TIPS: Getting a Handle on Hot Coffee Drinks

May 15, 2008

Any reason is perfect for a delicious hot coffee cocktail, but what's the best way to serve them? Fortunately, the choices are becoming increasingly sophisticated with a nod to cute, clever, and cheap to buy. Take, for instance, the Bon Coffee Cups shown on Crate and Barrel's www.cb2.com web site. These round clear glasses hold a hefty 10.5 ounces of your favorite Spanish Café and you needn't give a care to the temperature because the clever rubber band in spring colors of poppy, aqua, and lime (with more soon to come) protect your fingers and make gripping easy. Just remove them before stacking in the dishwasher, and they're ready for the next event. Did we mention cheap? Only $2.95, inexpensive enough to get one for the whole family, or for charming gifts for grad, bride or dad this season. Never had of a Spanish Café? Run water over edge of cup, then dip it into a plate of brown sugar. Set it upright and pour in a splash of rum and a dash of Triple Sec plus one shot of coffee liqueur like Kahlua or Tia Maria. Fill the glass with freshly brewed, strong and hot coffee and garnish with freshly whipped cream and a dash of nutmeg. If you don't have time to shop for the Bon Coffee Cups, a clear glass Irish coffee mug will do for this, or any clear-glass cup or heat-resistant glass which shows off the pretty contrast between cream and coffee.

Another choice is the Termisil heat-resistant glass cups and mugs from Poland are manufactured by Wolomin SA made from the increasingly popular borosilicate glass which provides extra resistance to heat and is also break-resistant and food-safe and is made from 100% recyclable eco-friendly glass. They are perfect to serve your favorite hot coffee cocktails in a more casual but nonetheless elegant way without worry that the glass will become too hot to handle after the hot drink is poured in. They come in mugs with round shapes or those with curves inward, and classic dinnerware-style cups with matching saucers. Termisil is also used to create beautiful clear-glass, heat resistant coffee jugs and pouring pots that look beautiful on any table. They're imported to the U.S. by Dom itp European houseware shops.

If you love espresso, try the Molasses Macchiato by mixing ½ tablespoon of molasses and ½ teaspoon of caramel syrup into the glass then add a good sprinkle of freshly ground ginger for a real flavor pow. Pour in a freshly brewed espresso slowly to preserve the crema. To create a finishing touch pour ½ cup of steamed milk into your espresso, dust a little cinnamon on top then sit down, relax and enjoy, enjoy, enjoy. Serve with candied ginger or pure brown sugar cubes for added sweetness. Both these drinks double or triple easily.

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