Café de Olla is a traditional Mexican coffee made with cinnamon, piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), and spices, giving it a rich, aromatic, and slightly sweet flavor. This coffee is usually brewed in a clay pot (olla de barro), which enhances its unique taste.
If you love bold, spiced coffee, this recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico. Let’s explore the history of Café de Olla, the ingredients you need, and a step-by-step guide to making it at home!
The History of Café de Olla
Café de Olla dates back to the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920) when soldiers and revolutionaries needed a strong, energizing drink. The addition of piloncillo and cinnamon made the coffee both flavorful and comforting.
Traditionally, Café de Olla is brewed in a clay pot, which adds earthy notes to the coffee and enhances the depth of flavor. Today, it remains a beloved staple in Mexican households, especially in colder regions and during celebrations.
Ingredients for Authentic Café de Olla
To make authentic Café de Olla, you’ll need:
☕ 4 cups (1 liter) of water
🍂 3-4 cinnamon sticks
🧊 1 small cone of piloncillo (or 1/4 cup brown sugar as a substitute)
🌿 1-2 cloves (optional, for extra spice)
🍊 Orange peel (optional, for a citrus twist)
🌱 1 star anise (optional, for a floral note)
🌰 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
☕ 1/2 cup of coarsely ground dark roast coffee
🔹 Optional Variations: Some regions in Mexico also add cocoa powder, vanilla, or even a splash of tequila for a bolder version!
How to Make Café de Olla: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Boil Water with Spices
- In a clay pot (or regular saucepan), bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, nutmeg, and orange peel.
- Stir in the piloncillo and let it dissolve completely.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes to infuse flavors.
Step 2: Add Coffee Grounds
- Remove the pot from heat.
- Stir in the coarsely ground coffee and let it steep for 5 more minutes.
💡 Tip: Avoid fine-ground coffee, as it can make the drink too bitter.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
- Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to filter out the coffee grounds and spices.
- Pour into a traditional clay mug (jarrito) or your favorite cup.
Step 4: Enjoy!
- Serve hot and fresh, optionally garnishing with a cinnamon stick or an orange peel twist.
Tips for the Best Café de Olla
✅ Use a Clay Pot – If possible, use a traditional olla de barro for the most authentic flavor. The porous clay absorbs and enhances the coffee’s natural oils.
✅ Adjust the Sweetness – If you prefer a lighter taste, reduce the amount of piloncillo or use a sugar alternative.
✅ Don’t Overbrew – Letting the coffee steep for too long can make it overly strong and bitter.
✅ Try It Cold! – Café de Olla can also be served iced, making a refreshing summer drink!
Final Thoughts: A Taste of Mexico in Every Sip
Café de Olla is more than just coffee—it’s a cultural experience, bringing the warmth and tradition of Mexico into your home. With its perfect blend of spices, sweetness, and bold coffee, this drink is ideal for cozy mornings, special occasions, or whenever you crave something different.
So, grab your ingredients and brew a cup of history today! ☕