- Brew 2 shots of espresso (or substitute with 1/2 cup strong coffee).
- In a small saucepan, heat apple juice with cinnamon and nutmeg until warm. Stir well to combine spices.
- Pour espresso into a serving glass. Add spiced apple juice mixture.
- Top with International Delight One Touch Latte Caramel creamer. Adjust amount to taste preference.
- Stir gently and serve warm. Optionally garnish with caramel drizzle or a cinnamon stick.
- Calories:29 kcal25%
- Energy:121 kJ22%
- Protein:1 g28%
- Carbohydrates:7 mg40%
- Sugar:6 mg8%
- Salt:3 g25%
- Fat:1 g20%
Last Updated on 1 month by Neha Deshmukh
Spiced Apple Espresso Recipe – Warm Cinnamon & Nutmeg Delight
Hello friends! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a cozy drink that feels a little bit special. This Spiced Apple Espresso is exactly that – a warm hug in a mug, perfect for chilly evenings or a delightful weekend treat. I first made this when I was craving something a little different than my usual chai, and it quickly became a favorite! It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, and the combination of espresso, spiced apple juice, and creamy caramel is just… chef’s kiss. Let’s get brewing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just another coffee recipe. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors that feels both comforting and a little bit luxurious. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg perfectly complement the tartness of the apple juice, while the espresso adds a lovely depth. And that caramel creamer? It takes everything to the next level! It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to brighten your day.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this little slice of heaven:
- 2 espresso shots (approximately 60ml)
- 2 oz (approximately 60ml) apple juice
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to your liking!)
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon nutmeg (again, adjust to your preference)
- International Delight One Touch Latte Caramel flavor creamer, to taste
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference here:
- Espresso vs. Strong Coffee: While espresso is ideal for that rich, concentrated flavor, a strong brewed coffee will absolutely work in a pinch! Just make sure it’s robust enough to stand up to the other flavors.
- Apple Juice: I prefer using a good quality, unfiltered apple juice for the best flavor. But honestly, any apple juice you enjoy will do. Cloudy or clear, it’s up to you!
- The Caramel Creamer: This is where the magic happens! International Delight’s One Touch Latte Caramel creamer adds a wonderful sweetness and creamy texture. It’s a bit of a treat, but totally worth it.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s make some magic!
- First, brew those 2 shots of espresso. If you’re using coffee, brew about ¼ cup (60ml) of strong coffee.
- In a small saucepan, pour in the apple juice. Add the cinnamon and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat until it’s warm and the spices are nicely fragrant – about 2-3 minutes. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is combined.
- Now, pour the espresso (or strong coffee) into your favorite mug.
- Gently pour the spiced apple juice mixture over the espresso.
- Time for the fun part! Add the International Delight caramel creamer, starting with a tablespoon or two. Stir gently and taste. Add more creamer until you reach your perfect level of sweetness and creaminess.
- Finally, if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with a little caramel drizzle or a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips
Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:
- Don’t overheat the apple juice! You just want it warm enough to dissolve the spices and blend with the espresso.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and creamer to suit your personal preferences.
- A little sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a beautiful finishing touch.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Spice Level Adjustments: My friend, Priya, loves a little extra warmth, so she adds a tiny pinch of ground cloves to the apple juice. Feel free to experiment!
- Alternative Creamer Options: If you’re not a fan of caramel, try vanilla or hazelnut creamer. Or, for a richer flavor, use a splash of half-and-half or whole milk.
- Iced Version: This is amazing iced! Let the espresso and spiced apple juice cool completely, then pour over ice and add the creamer.
- Holiday Adaptations: During the holidays, I like to add a star anise to the apple juice while it’s warming. It adds a lovely festive aroma.
Serving Suggestions
This Spiced Apple Espresso is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:
- A warm croissant or scone
- A slice of apple pie or cinnamon roll
- A cozy blanket and a good book!
Storage Instructions
This drink is best enjoyed immediately. However, you can prepare the spiced apple juice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently before adding the espresso and creamer.
FAQs
Let’s answer some common questions:
- Is this drink suitable for a morning boost? Absolutely! The espresso will give you a nice energy lift, and the spices are wonderfully invigorating.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can definitely prep the spiced apple juice in advance, as mentioned above.
- What kind of apple juice works best in this recipe? I recommend a good quality, unfiltered apple juice, but any apple juice you enjoy will work.
- Can I use a different spice blend instead of cinnamon and nutmeg? Yes, definitely! Try adding a pinch of allspice, cloves, or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
- Is it possible to make a dairy-free version of this drink? Absolutely! Use your favorite dairy-free creamer – almond, soy, or oat milk all work well.
Enjoy your Spiced Apple Espresso! I hope it brings a little warmth and joy to your day. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!