Fall is the season for cozy drinks. And what better way to enjoy a crisp day than with a hot coffee infused with warm spices, sweet apple, and a touch of whisky?
Inspired by the traditional Cuban espresso, this spiced apple café cubano blends rich, sweetened espresso with apple syrup and a hint of whisky. It’s a simple but original recipe that will bring festive autumn vibes to your afternoons.
Whether you’re a pumpkin spice lover or just curious to try something different, this spiced apple and whisky coffee is a delicious alternative to the classic fall latte.
How to Make a Spiced Apple Café Cubano
This comforting fall drink comes together in just a few easy steps:
- Make the apple spice syrup: simmer apple juice, whisky, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar into a fragrant syrup, then let it cool.
- Brew the cubano coffee: prepare an espresso mixed with brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice, then stir it into the syrup.
- Finish with milk: top with frothed milk (regular or oat milk) and garnish with cinnamon if you like.
Absolutely divine!
Variations & Tips
- Make ahead: prep the apple syrup in advance—it keeps for several days in the fridge.
- Alcohol-free: skip the whisky and add a few drops of vanilla extract.
- Festive version: add a shot of whisky right before serving.
- Dessert twist: drizzle with caramel and serve with a cinnamon cookie.
- Vegan: use oat or almond milk and a dairy-free whipped cream topping.
FAQ
Can I replace the whisky?
Yes, try amber rum for a sweeter flavour, or vanilla extract for an alcohol-free version.
How do I adjust the spice level?
Start with a pinch and add more to taste. Cinnamon gives sweetness, ginger adds a sharper kick.
Do I need an espresso machine?
Not at all. A stovetop moka pot or strong French press coffee works too.
Serving Ideas
This spiced apple cubano is perfect for:
- a cozy fall brunch,
- a warming treat after a walk outdoors,
- or even as a creative alternative to Irish coffee.
Serve it in clear glasses to showcase the layers, and add a cinnamon stick as a stirrer.
What is a café cubano?
A cafecito cubano (or Cuban espresso) is a strong coffee sweetened with brown sugar during extraction. Traditionally from Cuba, it’s known for its bold flavour and caramelized sweetness.
Today, the term often extends to any drink using this sweetened espresso as a base.
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Cuban coffee with spiced apple and whisky (Café Cubano)
The alternative to pumpkin spice latte, with a festive twist.
Ingredients
Coffee
- 1 tbsp. brown sugar
- 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
- 2-3 oz coffee (2 double shots of espresso)
Apple syrup
- 1 tbsp. cornstarch
- 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
- 1 ¼ cups apple juice
- 2 oz. Irish whiskey
- 4 tsp. brown sugar
Topping
- 4 oz milk (or oat milk)
Instructions
Preparing the apple syrup
- In a small bowl, dilute cornstarch with water.
- Combine all syrup ingredients and boil for 2 minutes to thicken.
- Set aside to cool and use in cocktails.
Cubano coffee
- Place 1 tablespoon of the apple syrup in a mug.
- Take two level measures of ground espresso and mix well with the pumpkin pie spices. Place mixture in a double-filter holder and press down.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the top of the coffee puck.
- Infuse spiced espresso over syrup and stir to incorporate.
- Repeat steps 2-3-4.
- Froth the oat milk and pour into the cup.
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Marie-Noël Ouimet is a writer and content creator specializing in gastronomy, wine, and travel. She is the founder of the digital magazine Urbaine City, where for over 10 years she has been highlighting the pleasures of the table and the destinations that bring them to life. She also holds the WSET Level 3 certification in wines and spirits.