Bookmark
This Easy Christmas Coffee is a warm and festive drink that brings holiday cheer to your cup. Rich coffee blends beautifully with creamy milk, sweet vanilla, and cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. A touch of chocolate and whipped cream transforms your regular morning brew into a holiday treat perfect for Christmas morning. It is simple to prepare, quick to make, and fills your home with the comforting aroma of the season. Ideal for sipping by the tree, serving guests, or pairing with Christmas cookies.
I made this recipe the first time during a festive family gathering and now everyone asks for it every holiday season
Ingredients
- Freshly brewed hot coffee: Choose a medium or dark roast to balance the sweetness and spices. Look for quality beans from French roasters such as Café Richard or Malongo for the best flavor
- Milk or halfandhalf: Whole milk creates a creamy texture, oat or almond milk are excellent dairy free choices widely available in France
- Brown sugar or maple syrup: Adds gentle sweetness. Maple syrup can provide a rich flavor, especially if you get pure Canadian syrup imported to France
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the coffee's aroma, opt for natural vanilla for the best taste
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice. Cassia cinnamon is common but true Ceylon cinnamon is milder and prized for subtle aroma
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon
- Chocolate syrup or melted chocolate: Use French couverture chocolate for a richer mocha flavor
- Whipped cream: A classic French chantilly cream or store bought for topping
- Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder: For garnish, adding a final festive touch to your drink
Instructions
- Brew the Coffee:
- Start by brewing one cup of fresh coffee. Choose a medium or dark roast for the best balance against the milk and spices. French coffee machines or a French press work great for a rich brew.
- Warm the Milk Mixture:
- In a small saucepan, combine milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Warm over low heat, whisking constantly until the mixture is hot and lightly frothy but not boiling. This step gently melds the flavors and creates a creamy texture.
- Add the Chocolate (Optional):
- If you want a mocha style Christmas coffee, whisk in chocolate syrup or melted chocolate now. Use good quality French chocolate for a smooth, rich taste.
- Combine with Coffee:
- Pour the hot coffee into a large mug. Slowly add the warm spiced milk mixture, stirring gently. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed with a little extra sugar or syrup.
- Top It Off:
- Crown your drink with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Sprinkle ground cinnamon or cocoa powder on top for a festive finish. For an added Christmas touch, add a candy cane or a little peppermint extract.
Among the ingredients, I always appreciate the ground cinnamon most. Its warm, sweet spice instantly evokes memories of Christmas markets in Strasbourg and cozy family breakfasts during the holidays. This coffee has become part of those special moments we share around the table, offering both comfort and tradition.
Storage Tips
This coffee is best served fresh to enjoy the creamy texture and fresh whipped cream. However, you can prepare the spiced milk mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to two days. Reheat gently before adding to fresh coffee. Avoid reheating the coffee itself to preserve that rich flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find brown sugar, regular white sugar or honey can replace it, though it will slightly change the flavor profile. For a vegan version, replace dairy milk with oat or almond milk and use coconut cream instead of whipped cream. Nutmeg can be omitted if unavailable but cinnamon is essential for that holiday warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this festive coffee with classic French Christmas treats such as madeleines, pain d'épices, or a slice of bûche de Noël. Serve in clear glass mugs to showcase the layers of coffee and cream, and add a cinnamon stick as a stirrer for added elegance.
Enjoy this warm festive coffee with your favorite holiday treats. It fills the kitchen with cozy aromas and makes mornings feel special.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Quel type de café utiliser ?
Un café de torréfaction moyenne à foncée est idéal pour équilibrer la douceur et les épices de la boisson.
- → Peut-on remplacer le lait ?
Oui, lait d’amande, d’avoine ou demi-écrémé conviennent parfaitement tout en apportant une texture crémeuse.
- → Comment obtenir une version glacée ?
Préparez le café chaud, laissez-le refroidir, versez sur glaçons et ajoutez la crème fouettée et un filet de sirop chocolaté.
- → Peut-on ajouter d’autres saveurs ?
Oui, des sirops comme gingembre, noisette ou eggnog apportent une touche festive originale.
- → Comment décorer la boisson ?
Un saupoudrage de cacao ou cannelle sur la crème fouettée, ou un bâtonnet de canne en sucre pour un effet gourmand.