If you’ve ever walked into a Cuban café in Miami or Havana, you’ve probably noticed people sipping tiny cups of strong, sweet coffee. Known as Café Cubano, cafecito, or simply Cuban coffee, this iconic drink is a huge part of Cuban culture. It’s famous for its bold espresso flavor and its signature sweet foam, called espuma or espumita.
While traditional Cuban coffee is made with sugar, many coffee lovers now prefer making Cuban coffee with sweetened condensed milk because it creates a richer, creamier, and slightly dessert-like flavor.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about Cuban coffee, including its history, ingredients, recipe, and the secrets to making authentic cafecito at home.
What Is Cuban Coffee?
Cuban coffee is a sweet espresso drink that originated in Cuba. Unlike regular espresso, Cuban coffee is sweetened during the brewing process instead of after it’s served.
The most important part of a traditional café cubano is the thick layer of foam called espuma. This foam is made by whipping sugar together with the first few drops of freshly brewed espresso.
The result is a coffee that is:
- Strong and bold
- Sweet but balanced
- Smooth and creamy
- Rich in aroma
- Served in small cups
Today, many people add sweetened condensed milk to create a creamier version that’s similar to a cortadito.
The History of Cuban Coffee
Coffee arrived in Cuba during the 18th century when French settlers brought coffee plants to the island. Thanks to Cuba’s tropical climate, coffee farming quickly became an important part of the country’s economy.
Over the years, drinking coffee became a daily ritual. Cubans often gather with family, friends, and neighbors to share a cup of cafecito and conversation.
Even today, Cuban communities in cities like Miami, Tampa, and Key West continue this tradition.
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Why Add Sweetened Condensed Milk?
- Traditional Cuban coffee uses sugar, but sweetened condensed milk offers several advantages.
Extra Creaminess
- Condensed milk gives the coffee a smooth, velvety texture that regular sugar can’t provide.
Better Sweetness
- Its sweetness balances the bitterness of dark-roast espresso without overpowering the coffee.
Convenient
- Since condensed milk already contains milk and sugar, you don’t need extra cream or sweeteners.
Dessert-Like Flavor
- Many people describe Cuban coffee with condensed milk as tasting like caramel, espresso, and milk combined.
Ingredients
To make Cuban coffee with sweetened condensed milk, you’ll need:
- ½ cup strong espresso
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Dark-roast coffee beans
- Water
Best Coffee Beans for Cuban Coffee
Authentic Cuban coffee tastes best with dark-roast coffee beans. Popular choices include:
- Café Bustelo
- Café Pilón
- Café La Llave
- Mayorga Espresso Roast
- Any strong espresso blend
Dark-roast beans produce the intense flavor needed for a proper cafecito.
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How to Make Cuban Coffee with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
Prepare strong coffee using one of these methods:
- Moka pot
- Espresso machine
- AeroPress
- French press
- Strong drip coffee maker
A stovetop moka pot is the most traditional option.
Step 2: Make the Espuma
As the first few drops of espresso come out, pour them into a small cup containing the sweetened condensed milk and sugar.
Whisk vigorously for 30–60 seconds until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and foamy.
This foam is called espuma, and it’s what makes Cuban coffee unique.
Step 3: Add the Rest of the Coffee
Slowly pour the remaining espresso into the cup.
Stir gently so the foam stays on top.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Cuban coffee is traditionally served in small espresso cups because it is very strong.
Enjoy it while it’s hot.
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What Is Espuma?
Espuma, sometimes called espumita, is the sweet foam on top of Cuban coffee.
Unlike the crema found on regular espresso, espuma is created by mixing sugar with the first drops of coffee. It gives Cuban coffee its signature sweetness and creamy texture.
A perfect espuma should be:
- Thick
- Smooth
- Light brown
- Slightly glossy
Different Types of Cuban Coffee
Cafecito
The classic Cuban espresso.
- Sweet
- Strong
- No milk
Cortadito
A cortadito combines Cuban espresso with steamed milk or condensed milk.
It’s creamier than a cafecito but still has a strong coffee flavor.
Café con Leche
A breakfast favorite made with:
- Espresso
- Warm milk
- Sugar
Many Cubans enjoy it with toast or Cuban bread.
Colada
A larger serving of Cuban coffee meant to be shared with friends and family.
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Cuban Coffee vs. Espresso
| Feature | Cuban Coffee | Espresso |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetness | Sweet | Bitter |
| Foam | Espuma | Crema |
| Milk | Optional | Rare |
| Roast | Dark roast | Medium or dark |
| Serving Size | Small | Small |
Can You Make Cuban Coffee Without an Espresso Machine?
Yes, absolutely.
You can use:
- Moka pot
- French press
- AeroPress
- Percolator
- Drip coffee maker
However, the moka pot produces the most authentic Cuban flavor.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Cuban Coffee
- Use freshly ground dark-roast beans.
- Whisk the foam quickly.
- Don’t add too much condensed milk.
- Serve immediately.
- Preheat your coffee cup.
- Brew strong coffee.
Is Cuban Coffee Strong?
Yes. Cuban coffee is much stronger than regular brewed coffee.
A single serving provides:
- A strong caffeine boost
- Rich espresso flavor
- Intense aroma
- Long-lasting energy
Because of its strength, Cuban coffee is usually served in small portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cuban coffee stronger than regular coffee?
- Yes. Cuban coffee uses concentrated espresso and contains more caffeine per ounce.
Can I use condensed milk instead of sugar?
- Yes. Sweetened condensed milk adds both sweetness and creaminess.
What does Cuban coffee taste like?
- It tastes rich, sweet, bold, and slightly caramel-like.
What’s the difference between cafecito and cortadito?
- A cafecito is sweet espresso, while a cortadito includes milk.
What’s the best way to make Cuban coffee?
- A moka pot is considered the traditional method.
Final Thoughts
Cuban coffee is much more than just espresso—it’s a tradition that brings people together. Whether you prefer a classic cafecito, a creamy cortadito, or a modern version made with sweetened condensed milk, every cup delivers the bold flavors that make Cuban coffee famous around the world.
With the right beans, a moka pot, and a little practice, you can enjoy authentic Cuban coffee right at home.