If you’ve ever tried brewing café Cubano at home, you know that the beans you use make all the difference. The best coffee for Cuban coffee isn’t just any dark roast. You should look for the kind that can deliver rich aroma, deep flavor, and just the right amount of strength to pair perfectly with that signature whipped sugar foam (espuma).
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes the ideal coffee for Cuban-style brewing, explore whole bean options, and highlight some of the best Cuban coffee brands that bring out the flavor and intensity this classic drink is known for.
If you’re new to brewing, start with our guide on how to make an authentic Cuban coffee for a full step-by-step breakdown.
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Best Coffee for Cuban Coffee
Here are a few good rules when choosing beans for Cuban coffee.
- Dark roast: A dark roast develops natural oils and deep flavors that mix perfectly with sugar foam (espuma).
- Grind size: Use a fine, espresso-style grind. It allows the moka pot to extract concentrated coffee evenly.
- Bean type: Choose Arabica for smoothness or an Arabica-Robusta blend for more strength and caffeine. A 70/30 blend is ideal for authentic flavor.
- Freshness: If possible, buy whole beans and grind right before brewing, and store them airtight. Fresh coffee delivers the strongest aroma and flavor.
Best Cuban-Style Coffee
For those who want the rich, bold flavor of Cuban-style coffee without the extra prep, here are our top picks for Cuban-style coffee products that are easy to use and enjoy.
- Contains one (1) 16-ounce brick of Café Bustelo Ground Coffee, Dark Roast
- Convenient brick form for easy brewing
- Delicious dark blend with a robust flavor and captivating aroma
- Ideal for brewing drip coffee, espressos, cappuccinos, and more
- Rich, full-bodied flavor stands up to milk and sugar
Whole-Bean Cuban-Style Coffee
If you prefer freshly ground coffee and don’t mind a little extra effort for maximum flavor, here are our recommended whole-bean options roasted in the Cuban style.
If you are planning to use whole beans, make sure to have a grinder that can get the right grind size. These are our recommendations:
How to Choose Beans Based on Brewing Method
The best beans for Cuban coffee also depend on how you brew it. While the moka pot is the traditional choice, other methods can still capture that signature Cuban flavor with the right roast and grind.
Moka Pot
This is the most authentic method. Use a dark roast with a fine, espresso-style grind. The pressure from the steam extracts full flavor and pairs perfectly with sugar foam (espuma).
Espresso Machine
Choose low-oil dark roast beans to avoid clogging the machine. These work well for making café Cubano or cortadito.
See our guide on how to make Cuban coffee with an espresso machine.
Nespresso or Capsule Machines
Use espresso pods that will give you strength and intensity. These create concentrated, sweet coffee similar to stovetop Cuban coffee.
Learn more in the guide on how to make Cuban coffee with Nespresso.
Small Tips for a Better Cup of Coffee
Getting the best flavor from your Cuban coffee is all about balance. Here are a few simple tips that make a big difference:
- Use filtered water. Clean water brings out smoother, richer coffee without bitterness.
- Brew on medium heat. Too much heat burns the coffee and makes it harsh. Slow, steady brewing keeps the flavor balanced.
- Mix the first drops with sugar right away. This is the secret to making creamy sugar foam (espuma) that defines authentic Cuban coffee.
- Avoid flavored or light roasts. These can overpower or clash with the caramel sweetness of Cuban coffee.
- Grind just before brewing. As we already mentioned, freshly ground coffee delivers the strongest aroma and most consistent flavor.
- Store your coffee properly. Keep it airtight, cool, and away from sunlight to preserve freshness.
FAQ
Can I use regular espresso beans for Cuban coffee?
Yes. Most espresso beans work well since they are roasted dark and ground fine. Just make sure the flavor is bold and low in acidity to match the traditional Cuban profile.
Is Robusta coffee necessary for Cuban coffee?
Not required, but it helps. Robusta beans add body, higher caffeine, and a richer crema. Many Cuban-style blends use a mix of Arabica and Robusta for this reason.
Can I use flavored coffee beans?
It’s better not to. Flavored beans can clash with the caramelized sweetness of espuma. Stick with plain dark roast beans for the most authentic taste.
What is the best grind size for Cuban coffee?
Use a fine, espresso-like grind. It allows the moka pot or espresso machine to extract full flavor and produce a strong, concentrated brew.
Key Takeaways
Finding the best coffee for Cuban coffee comes down to roast, grind, and freshness.
- Dark roast coffee delivers the bold, caramelized flavor that defines authentic café Cubano.
- Use a fine, espresso-style grind for concentrated extraction and rich aroma.
- A 70/30 Arabica-Robusta blend offers the perfect balance of smoothness, strength, and caffeine.
- Whole beans stay fresher longer and give better flavor when ground right before brewing.
- The moka pot is the most traditional method, but espresso or capsule machines can still capture the same strong character.
- For the best results, brew on medium heat, mix sugar with the first drops of coffee, and store beans in a cool, airtight container.
- Avoid light or flavored roasts since they clash with the caramel sweetness that Cuban coffee is known for.