Colada Coffee (+One Intriguing Spanish-Style Coffee Recipe)

Colada coffee is one of the four versions of Cuban coffee. It is known as a short, strong, sweetened espresso that’s supposed to be shared with friends. Cuban coffee tradition is intriguing, yet the traditional way to serve Cuban-style Colada coffee is in small styrofoam cups.

As a bonus, we’ll provide a simple recipe for the amazing Colada’s Spanish cousin called Cortado!

First, A Bit Of History: What Is Colada Coffee?

Mostly famous in Cuba and South Florida, Colada coffee comes in four to six strong and sweet shots of Cuban espresso served in a Styrofoam cup. Despite the lack of milk, colada coffee might contain a pinch of salt to balance out the sweet, frothy foam. The best thing is that you only need four minutes to prepare it.

If there is a secret message behind this delicious drink, it would be: “Share it with friends”. 

What is Colada coffee made of?

Colada coffee is made of dark roasted coffee, (brown) sugar and filtered water. We strongly recommend using brown sugar and Moka pot for the equipment.

How To Make Colada Coffee: The Moka Pot Method

Cuban Colada coffee is easy-to-make. This delicious coffee beverage only requires high-quality coffee beans and your good mood to share it with friends. Note that you must combine the ingredients properly to get the right foam on top. 

Step 1: Make The Colada Coffee By Using Moka Pot

Fill the brewing basket with dark-roasted Cuban coffee beans. Add water to the chamber and gently tamp the coffee.

The Moka pot should be set on medium heat so that the coffee flows freely and the pressure in the pot can be controlled (1).

Step 2: Form The Light Form By Adding Brown Sugar

Time to create a brown sugar mixture. Combine 2 tablespoons brown sugar with the first coffee drops (from Moka pot, of course). Add the sugar mixture to the coffee and beat until it dissolves.

It should result in a foamy, beige color light form on the top.

Step 3: Share It With Friends

Serve your Colada Cuban coffee in small cups and enjoy this Cuban-style ritual with family or friends.

Cortado Coffee: Alternative Recipe

Cortado is a Spanish-style coffee. But before you even consider the difference between Colada and Cortada, you might get confused with Cortado and Cortadito. Let’s resolve this straight away.

These are similar coffee drinks, but their origin and ingredients differ. A cortado is a Spanish coffee drink containing espresso shots and a small amount of steamed milk. And Cortadito is a sweeter Cuban espresso drink that contains sugar besides steamed milk and espresso.

Now, what is the difference between Cortado and Colada coffee? 

Cortado is smooth but a rich espresso with milk. Interestingly “cortado” refers to “cut” in Spanish, meaning that milk cuts the espresso (2). Colada, on the other hand, doesn’t contain milk. The biggest difference is that Colada is sweeter because of the brown sugar, while Cordato is more textured because of milk. 

Besides many coffee drinks from around the world, Colada is definitely worth trying.

Step 1: Make A Double Espresso Shot

Once you pick your fresh fine-grind espresso beans, you can start making a double espresso shot in an espresso machine or French press. Don’t forget that the balance between the milk and espresso should be 1:1.

Step 2: Time For Milk And Enjoyment

We recommend using 4 ounces of steamed or lightly textured milk. Froth it until you get a creamy texture. Pour milk into a cup with espresso and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

These Cuban and Spanish-style recipes suit those who love strong coffees. With their simple structure and interesting origin, these coffee beverages are simply irresistible.

Whether you want a sweetened or milky coladita coffee version, you won’t get wrong with these nicely balanced drinks!