Go Back
Café de Olla Recipe Make Traditional Mexican Spiced Coffee 1

Café de Olla Recipe: Make Traditional Mexican Spiced Coffee

Ilona
Experience Mexico's cozy flavors! This easy Café de Olla recipe guides you to a comforting, spiced coffee brew, perfect for any time of day.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Beverage
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan or traditional olla de barro
  • Wooden spoon
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Mugs for serving

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups filtered water
  • 1 large cone (around 3 to 4 oz) of piloncillo, or substitute with dark brown sugar
  • 1 whole cinnamon stick
  • 4 tablespoons of ground coffee (or use instant coffee if preferred)
  • 1–2 whole cloves (optional, for added spice)

Instructions
 

  • Simmer the Spiced Sweet Base
    In a traditional olla or medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of water, the cinnamon stick, piloncillo cone, and cloves (if using). Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the piloncillo fully melts into the liquid.
  • Add the Coffee
    Once the sweet-spiced mixture is fully dissolved and fragrant, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the ground coffee (or instant coffee if using), blending it evenly into the hot liquid.
    How to Make Café de Olla - Add the Coffee
  • Steep the Brew
    Cover the pot and let the coffee steep for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop. If you're using instant coffee, just stir until it's completely dissolved.
    How to Make Café de Olla - Steep the Brew
  • Strain and Serve
    Carefully pour the coffee into mugs through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth if ground coffee was used. This removes the grounds and leaves you with a smooth, aromatic drink.
  • Enjoy with a Treat
    Serve hot with a side of pan dulce, galletas, or a fresh bolillo. It’s the perfect pairing for a cozy morning or evening treat.
Keyword Café de Olla, cinnamon coffee, Mexican coffee, piloncillo coffee, traditional coffee