If you’ve never had Café de Olla, you’re in for a treat! This traditional Mexican coffee isn’t just coffee—it’s an experience. Sweet, spicy, and deeply comforting, Café de Olla has been warming hearts (and waking people up) for generations. Originally made by soldaderas (female soldiers) during the Mexican Revolution, this aromatic drink is still a beloved staple today, especially in Dallas, where Mexican food and culture thrive.
Want to try it for yourself? Here’s an authentic Café de Olla recipe that brings tradition to your table!
What You’ll Need:
- 6 cups of water
- 1 piloncillo cone (about 8 ounces, or substitute with ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar)
- 1 Mexican cinnamon stick
- 3 tablespoons of ground coffee (medium-dark roast preferred)
- Optional: 2 cloves, 1 star anise pod, and a piece of orange peel
How to Make It:
- Heat and Dissolve: In a medium-sized pot or olla de barro (clay pot), combine the water, piloncillo, cinnamon stick, and any additional spices you want to include. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the piloncillo dissolves completely.
- Infuse the Coffee: Once the mixture begins to boil and the spices have released their aromas, remove it from the heat. Stir in the ground coffee and cover the pot to let it steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the coffee through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the grounds and spices. Pour into mugs and enjoy while it’s hot!
Pro Tips for a Perfect Brew:
- The Right Balance of Sweetness: Piloncillo gives this coffee its signature flavor, but you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less, depending on your taste.
- Use a Traditional Clay Pot: If possible, use an olla de barro for an authentic earthy flavor.
- Pair It Right: This drink is even better with Mexican pastries like conchas, pan dulce, or churros.
Café de Olla isn’t just coffee—it’s a sip of history and culture. While it’s rewarding to make this Café de Olla recipe at home, experiencing it at one of Dallas’s authentic Mexican spots adds a whole new dimension to its charm.
Ready to taste the best Café de Olla Dallas has to offer? Book a tour with Incloodie Food Tour! Let us guide you to the city’s hidden gems and local favorites, where you’ll discover incredible flavors and unforgettable experiences.