Mexican Coffee (Café de Olla): Everything You Need to Know
If you’re a coffee lover looking for something rich, aromatic, and uniquely traditional, Mexican coffee — or café de olla — is a must-try. From its spiced flavors to the warm aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar, Mexican coffee is a delightful experience in every cup. In this blog, we’ll answer the most common questions about this beloved beverage and show you how to enjoy it at home.
What’s Mexican Coffee?
Mexican coffee, commonly known as café de olla, is a traditional coffee preparation from Mexico. Unlike plain coffee, it is brewed with ground coffee, brown sugar, and cinnamon, giving it a distinctively sweet and spicy flavor. Traditionally, it’s made in a clay pot (olla), which enhances its rich taste. Some recipes also include other spices, like cloves or star anise, for added depth.
Which Mexican Coffee Is Best?
The best Mexican coffee is usually medium roast, 100% Arabica beans, grown in the mountainous regions of Mexico like Chiapas, Veracruz, and Oaxaca. These regions produce coffee with rich flavor, smooth body, and natural sweetness — perfect for café de olla. You can find ground coffee specifically labeled as Mexican coffee or café de olla blend, ready for brewing at home.
What Is Mexican Coffee Called?
In Mexico, the traditional spiced coffee is called café de olla (literally “pot coffee”), named after the clay pot used to brew it. Outside of Mexico, it’s often referred to as Mexican coffee — a delicious, sweet, cinnamon-flavored drink.
Is Mexican Coffee Good?
Absolutely! Mexican coffee is loved worldwide for its unique flavor profile. The combination of medium roast coffee, brown sugar, and cinnamon gives it a comforting taste that’s perfect for mornings, afternoons, or even as a cold coffee treat. It’s a flavorful alternative to regular coffee and a great introduction to traditional Mexican beverages.
Is Mexican Coffee Arabica or Robusta?
Most authentic Mexican coffee is 100% Arabica. Arabica beans are known for their smooth flavor, mild acidity, and aromatic qualities — ideal for café de olla. Robusta beans are less common in traditional Mexican coffee because they are stronger and more bitter, which is not typical for the sweet, spiced profile of café de olla.
How Is Mexican Coffee Made?
Making Mexican coffee is simple and rewarding. Here’s a classic Mexican coffee recipe:
Ingredients:
-
10 cups water
-
7 tablespoons medium roast ground coffee
-
4oz piloncillo or brown sugar
-
2 cinnamon sticks
Instructions:
-
In a clay pot (or small saucepan), combine water, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
-
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat.
-
Add ground coffee and simmer for 5–10 minutes.
-
Strain the coffee into mugs and serve hot.
-
Optional: Pour over ice for a cold Mexican coffee twist.
This traditional method gives your coffee a rich, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with sweet or savory pastries.
@ibarraimportsnv ♬ original sound - Mexican Decor Store
Where to Buy Mexican Coffee
You can find authentic Mexican coffee products at specialty shops, Mexican grocery stores, or online. Look for medium roast Arabica beans or pre-ground café de olla blends. Some shops also sell traditional clay pots (ollas) for brewing, which enhances the authentic flavor.
Tip: If you’re looking for convenience, you can shop online for high-quality Mexican coffee products and even gift sets for friends and family.
Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, Mexican coffee (café de olla) is a delicious, aromatic beverage that’s perfect for coffee lovers who appreciate rich flavor and cultural tradition. With cinnamon, brown sugar, and medium roast ground coffee, it’s easy to make at home and a great addition to your morning routine or holiday gatherings.
Try it today and experience the authentic taste of Mexico!
