How to Make the Perfect Cuban Coffee: A Step-by-Step Guide to Café Perfection

If you’ve ever sipped on a smooth, sweet, and bold cup of Cuban coffee, you know it’s an experience like no other. The taste of 6 sugars will ensure you are well and truly awake for the next 14 hours. The perfect Cuban coffee, or cafecito, is a staple in Cuban culture—a rich, sugary brew that packs a punch while remaining irresistibly smooth. But what exactly makes it so special, and how can you make it at home?

Whether you’re new to Cuban coffee or just want to perfect your brewing skills, here’s a complete guide to making the perfect Cuban coffee that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Havana. Let’s get brewing!

What Makes Cuban Coffee So Special?

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about why Cuban coffee is such a big deal. Cuban coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a cultural ritual. Whether enjoyed alone in the morning or shared with friends and family during the day, cafecito is a cherished tradition. What sets it apart is its deep flavor, enhanced by the unique way it’s brewed and the magical addition of whipped sugar, known as espuma.

A typical Cuban coffee is made with dark, strong espresso and sweetened with sugar, resulting in a smooth, rich, and slightly syrupy brew that’s perfect for an energy boost. It’s the combination of strength and sweetness that makes it a standout.

Ready to Make Your Perfect Cuban Coffee? Let’s Dive In!

What You’ll Need:

Cuban-style espresso (like Café Bustelo or Pilon)
Espresso maker (cafetera or stovetop espresso pot is the classic choice)
Sugar (traditional recipes use white granulated sugar)
Water

Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Cuban Coffee

1. Prepare Your Espresso Maker

Cuban coffee is made using a stovetop espresso maker (also called a cafetera or Moka pot). If you don’t have one, you can use an electric espresso machine, but for an authentic experience, the stovetop method is key.

Fill the bottom chamber of the espresso maker with water. Make sure it reaches just below the safety valve.
Add Cuban coffee grounds to the filter basket. Pack it lightly, but evenly—don’t overpack it. Cuban coffee brands like Café Bustelo, Pilon, or La Llave work best for that authentic taste.

2. Start Brewing the Coffee

Place your espresso maker on medium heat and let the coffee start brewing. Here’s where things get exciting—don’t let the coffee brew completely before moving on to the next step!

3. Make the Espuma (Sugar Foam)

While the coffee is brewing, let’s whip up the famous espuma—this is what gives Cuban coffee its signature sweetness and frothy top layer.

Add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar into a small bowl. The exact amount depends on your taste and the number of servings. (Pro tip: You can use raw sugar for a slightly more caramelized flavor.)
As soon as a few drops of coffee start to brew (before the pot is full), quickly pour those first few drops into the sugar. These initial drops are thick and concentrated, perfect for making the foam.
Whip the sugar and coffee together vigorously with a spoon until it forms a creamy, frothy mixture. This is your espuma.

4. Finish Brewing the Coffee

Once your espuma is ready, let the rest of the coffee finish brewing. As soon as it’s done, pour the coffee into the bowl with the espuma, and stir gently to mix it evenly. The result is a sweet, frothy cup of Cuban coffee that’s smooth, bold, and just the right amount of sweet.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Pour the coffee into small espresso cups (this stuff is strong, so small servings are key), and enjoy! Whether you’re sipping alone or sharing with friends, you’ll experience the perfect blend of strength and sweetness in every sip.