If you own a Nespresso machine, you might wonder if you can recreate that same strong and sugary shot at home.
Yes, you can make Cuban coffee with a Nespresso machine. You won’t get the exact crema texture of a stovetop moka pot, but you can come close with the right capsule, sugar method, and timing. Here’s how to do it.
What Makes Cuban Coffee Unique
Cuban coffee, or café Cubano, is known for its intense flavor and thick sugar foam called espuma. It’s brewed from finely ground dark roast coffee, often with sugar beaten into the first few drops of espresso. That’s what gives it the syrupy, caramel-like layer that sits on top.
The Nespresso machine uses high pressure to extract espresso-style coffee, which makes it a good alternative to a traditional moka pot.
What You’ll Need
- Nespresso machine
- Dark roast Nespresso capsule
- Granulated sugar (2 teaspoons per shot)
- Small metal or ceramic cup
- Spoon
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cuban Coffee with Nespresso
It won’t be exactly Cuban coffee, but this will bring you close to the real taste: +
1. Brew a small shot of espresso.
Use your dark roast capsule and brew a single espresso shot. Cuban coffee is small but strong, so you only need about one ounce of liquid.
2. Collect the first drops of espresso.
Place about one teaspoon of the first drops into a cup with two teaspoons of sugar. These first drops are the most concentrated and create the base for your espuma.
3. Whip the sugar and espresso together.
Use a spoon to vigorously mix until the sugar dissolves and turns into a light brown, creamy foam. This step is essential. It should look thick and smooth, almost like caramel.
4. Pour the rest of the espresso slowly.
Add the remaining espresso to the whipped sugar mixture while stirring gently. This helps combine the foam evenly without breaking it.
5. Serve immediately.
Pour into small espresso cups and serve while hot. Cuban coffee is meant to be shared, so brew a few more shots if you’re making it for others.
You may be interested in other ways to make a Cuban coffee without a Moka pot.
FAQ
Can you use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, but white sugar gives the classic espuma color and texture. Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses but won’t foam as much.
Do you need a special Nespresso capsule?
No, but pick a strong dark roast. Light roasts will taste too mild for Cuban-style coffee.
Can you make Cuban coffee with milk using Nespresso?
Traditional Cuban coffee is served black, but you can add a splash of steamed milk to make a Cortadito, a slightly softer version.
Key Takeaways on How to Make Cuban Coffee with Nespresso
Making Cuban coffee with a Nespresso is quick and surprisingly close to the real thing.
- Use a dark roast capsule and small espresso shot for strength.
- Whip sugar with the first drops of coffee to create espuma.
- Add the rest of the espresso gently to preserve the foam.
- White sugar gives the most authentic flavor and look.
- A Nespresso can’t fully match a moka pot, but it captures the sweet, rich essence of café Cubano.