Delicious Ways to Incorporate Coffee into Your Recipes
Coffee lovers rejoice! Beyond being the perfect morning drink, coffee is also an amazing ingredient in the kitchen. Adding coffee to your cooking brings depth and richness to both sweet and savoury dishes. Here, we’ll explore unique and creative ways to cook with coffee that will impress your family and friends.
Coffee-Rubbed Steak with Rich Espresso Glaze
Who knew that coffee could become the star of your next steak dinner? The earthy richness of coffee pairs beautifully with the smokiness of grilled meat. To make a coffee rub, mix finely ground coffee with spices like paprika, brown sugar, cumin, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Pat the rub onto a steak and let it marinate for at least an hour before grilling. For an extra layer of flavour, create an espresso glaze by combining espresso, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle this over the cooked steak just before serving for a succulent, aromatic dish that’s sure to impress.
Pro Tip: Use fresh ground coffee for maximum flavour, and let the steak rest before serving to lock in the juices.
Coffee-Spiced Chocolate Torte
Coffee and chocolate are a match made in heaven. Add a coffee twist to your next chocolate torte by incorporating espresso powder into the batter. The coffee enhances the chocolate’s depth, resulting in a dessert that’s indulgent and satisfying. Top the torte with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant finish that’s sure to delight.
Pro Tip: A dash of cinnamon or cardamom can add an extra layer of warmth to this dessert.
Espresso Martini Cupcakes – A Cocktail-Inspired Treat
Espresso martini cupcakes combine the flavour of a classic cocktail with the charm of a bite-sized treat. Bake a batch of vanilla or chocolate cupcakes and, once cooled, fill the centre with coffee-flavoured liqueur or espresso syrup. Finish with a coffee-infused frosting made from powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a shot of espresso. Garnish each cupcake with a coffee bean or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Pro Tip: For a mocktail version, skip the liqueur and add extra espresso or coffee syrup.
Coffee-Infused Tiramisu – A Classic with a Twist
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that’s all about coffee. Start by brewing a strong cup of coffee, then mix in a little sugar while it’s still warm. Dip ladyfinger biscuits into the coffee, then layer them in a dish with a creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla. Alternate the coffee-soaked biscuits and cream mixture, and dust the top with cocoa powder for a stunning presentation.
Pro Tip: Let the tiramisu sit in the fridge for several hours or overnight to allow the flavours to meld together.
Mocha Granola – A Crunchy Coffee Treat
Granola takes on a whole new dimension when infused with mocha flavours. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, cocoa powder, and a sprinkle of espresso powder. Toss with melted coconut oil and honey, then bake until golden and crisp. This mocha granola is perfect for breakfast or a snack and pairs beautifully with yoghurt.
Pro Tip: Add a handful of chocolate chips once the granola cools for a chocolatey touch.
Coffee-Baked Beans – A Savoury Surprise
Coffee can also enhance savoury dishes like baked beans. The rich, earthy flavour of coffee adds depth to the tomato-based sauce. In a slow cooker, combine beans, brewed coffee, tomatoes, molasses, brown sugar, and spices like paprika and garlic. Let it cook until the beans are tender and the flavours have melded together for a unique twist on a classic dish.
Pro Tip: Use a dark roast coffee for a bold, smoky flavour.
Espresso Buttercream Frosting
If you love coffee-flavoured desserts, try adding espresso powder to buttercream frosting. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this rich and creamy frosting adds a sophisticated coffee flavour to any baked treat. Simply mix softened butter, powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and espresso powder to taste.
Pro Tip: Adjust the amount of espresso powder to control the coffee intensity and taste as you go.
Coffee in Savoury Sauces and Marinades
Coffee can be a fantastic base for savoury sauces and marinades. Its natural acidity and depth of flavour make it a great addition to barbecue sauces and marinades for meats. Add a shot of espresso or a splash of brewed coffee to your favourite sauce recipe for a richer, more complex taste.
Pro Tip: Coffee-based marinades pair especially well with beef and pork.
Coffee is more than just a beverage; it's a versatile ingredient that can elevate your cooking. From savoury dishes like coffee-rubbed steak to sweet treats like espresso martini cupcakes, coffee can add a unique touch to any meal. So, the next time you're in the kitchen, don’t hesitate to experiment with coffee to create dishes that will surprise and delight your loved ones.
