Espresso
Espresso is, perhaps, the most quintessential of all coffee drinks, and it’s certainly one of the strongest. It’s made by pushing hot water under high pressure through finely ground, compacted coffee beans to prepare a concentrated espresso shot. The result is intense and, depending on the beans you choose, often bitter. But when accompanied by steamed milk and a spoonful of sugar—most famously as a cappuccino or a latte—the taste buds are in for a real treat.
Mocha
For a sweet, creamy latte like no other, mochas are hard to beat. This delicious blended beverage usually combines espresso, steamed milk, chocolate, and chocolate-flavored syrup for an indulgent sweet hit. Espresso and steamed milk make up the bulk of the drink, and you can customize the ratio of the two to suit your tastebuds. From there, you can then add flavors like peppermint extract, coconut syrup, and orange zest to create your own unique recipe.
Vanilla Latte
Warm, velvety, and sweetly inviting, a vanilla latte might well be the perfect companion for a rainy day. An espresso-based drink, you’ll need some steamed milk (skimmed or otherwise) and your favorite coffee beans, along with a teaspoon or two of vanilla extract. For an even more indulgent variation, use coffee-flavored syrup to really ramp up the flavor. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon will add some extra heat and spice.
Irish Coffee
A beverage that’s guaranteed to lighten up the darkest of days, Irish coffee has a few simple, yet essential ingredients. Mix strong brewed coffee, brown sugar, Irish whiskey, and heavy cream together (ideally in equal parts) and leave aside for a few minutes to work its magic. Add some extra sugar, if you wish, and serve the beverage hot. Delicious, comforting, and unquestionably sweet, believe it or not, this is actually an excellent early morning pick-me-up, too.
Febreze
For those looking to get a buzz but stay off the hard stuff, febreze is a surprisingly tasty option. A mixture of hot coffee, Kahlua, Tia Maria, and cream, this sweet beverage is often served after dinner for a chilled out drink. The complexity of the individual components comes together to create something that has all the sweetness of a molecular gastronomy dessert but still manages to have a kick of caffeine—perfect for a cozy evening with friends or family.
Honey Flat White
The perfect pick-me-up for those in need of a gentle treat, a honey flat white is both sweet and satisfying. The emphasis here is on the honey, which brings a deep, almost syrup-like maple flavor to a classic flat white. The coffee beans will obviously play a part in the overall taste as well, but that special touch of honey is what sets this drink apart. A few tablespoons of honey should do the trick, so don’t be afraid to experiment to find the perfect level of sweetness.
Affogato
If you really want to up the sweetness ante, look no further than affogato. This delightful Italian favorite combines espresso, gelato, and a generous helping of cream for a real taste sensation. The cold-meets-hot contrast is unmatched, and the thick, creamy notes make this beverage impossible to resist. Some ingredients – like a spoonful of Nutella and a pinch of cinnamon – will only add to the sweetness and take it to a whole new level.
Chai Latte
Chai lattes are an aromatic favorite that always delivers on the sweetness front. Made with traditional spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger and cloves, the beans used here don’t have to be too strong. Instead, focus on the flavor of the spices and the creaminess of the steamed milk, stirring in some honey if the taste still needs a little extra boost. Don’t forget a sprinkle of nutmeg on the top, either – this combination is practically irresistible.
Macchiato
Similar to a cappuccino, this classic Italian espresso-based drink is enjoyed around the world. As you might expect, the blend of espresso and steamed milk creates an exceptionally sweet cup, but you can of course add a little sugar or honey for extra depth. What really sets this drink apart from the rest is the layer of foam atop the espresso, adding a light and delicate texture. For the ultimate “happiness in a cup” experience, pair your macchiato with a cinnamon cookie.
Cortado
If you’re looking for sweetness on the go, the cortado is the ultimate handy choice. While it’s certainly strong, the addition of the equal measure of steamed milk makes for a surprisingly mellow and full-bodied cup. The espresso gives structure to the otherwise sweet concoction, and you can always stir in a teaspoon of honey if you need that extra layer of caffeine to really get your day started. Best of all, you don’t need to linger at home or in a café to enjoy it – hit the road, and you’ll be good to go.
Summary
Aside from being one of the most comforting and energizing of drinks, coffee can also be surprisingly sweet. Whether you’re feeling something creamy, spicy, or indulgent, there’s a coffee drink out there to match. For a strong, intense hit, you can choose espresso with a spoonful of sugar or a latte with a few tablespoons of honey—all of which help craft the perfect flavor. For something altogether more luxurious, a mocha or an Irish coffee complete with cream will be sure to hit the spot. Finally, if you need something on the go that packs a sweet punch, don’t underestimate the mighty cortado. Sweet coffee—it’s not just a thing of imagination.
