Drinks Archives - A Beautiful Mess https://abeautifulmess.com/category/food/drinks/ Crafts, Home Décor, Recipes Sat, 16 Mar 2024 19:07:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://abeautifulmess.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/cropped-ABM-Favicon-60x60.jpg Drinks Archives - A Beautiful Mess https://abeautifulmess.com/category/food/drinks/ 32 32 Negroni Sbagliato https://abeautifulmess.com/negroni-sbagliato/ https://abeautifulmess.com/negroni-sbagliato/#comments Fri, 01 Mar 2024 14:05:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=122628 If you love the classic cocktail Negroni, you have to try this lighter, sparking version. This recipe replaces the gin with effervescent Prosecco to create a flavorful cocktail. This drink makes an excellent aperitivo, or pre-dinner drink.

Related: Boulevardier, Cosmo, Manhattan, Rusty Nail, Aperol Spritz, Salty Dog, Aviation, Hugo Spritz.

Ingredients

  • Campari – The famous bright red Italian bitter.
  • Sweet Vermouth – Choose a sweet red vermouth.
  • Prosecco – Or other sparkling wine.
  • Orange Peel – For garnish.

The best glassware choice for this drink is the same as a classic Negroni, an old fashioned glass. You can also serve it in a champagne flute.

Instructions

In a mixing glass, combine Campari and sweet vermouth with ice and stir for 10-15 seconds.

Next, strain into an old fashioned glass with a large ice cube. 

Slowly pour Prosecco (or any sparkling wine) to top the drink. 

Garnish with an orange twist or an orange peel.

Tips for Making

  • Play with the proportions if you want to create a drink that is slightly more stiff or slightly more bubbly.
  • For a lower ABV, you can replace the sparkling wine with soda water. This is a perfect solution for day drinking and makes a delightful sipping drink.
  • This drink can be batched into a pitcher cocktail or punch bowl. For an entire bottle of Prosecco (which is typically 25 ounces), you would want to also increase the Campari and sweet vermouth to 25 ounces. It’s equal parts of all three ingredients—so very easy to batch if you choose to!

What is a Negroni Sbagliato?

Sbagliato, in Italian, means “bungled” or “mistaken.” This comes from the origin of the drink which, like so many favorites, was a happy accident.

Today, the word sbagliato in this context indicates “with Prosecco” and is recognized by bartenders. A Negroni Spagliato is a classic Negroni with Prosecco instead of gin. The result is a similarly flavored drink since a lot of the flavor comes from the Campari. The biggest difference is that the Prosecco creates a lighter drink both in alcohol volume and in taste. If you’ve ever loved a Negroni but found it a bit too stiff, this may be the perfect drink for you.

History of a Negroni Spagliato

This spin on the classic Negroni was created in the 1980s in Milan. Legend has it that Bar Basso mistakenly reached for a bottle of Prosecco instead of gin. The riff became a huge hit and is still served today at Bar Basso in Milan (anyone up for a trip to Italy?). 

In 2022, a viral TikTok between House of the Dragon actors Emma D’Arcy and Olivia Cooke made this drink skyrocket in popularity. In the video, Cooke asks D’Arcy, “What’s your drink of choice?” D’Arcy thoughtfully responds, “A Negroni,” and adds, “Sbagliato, with Prosecco in it.” Cooke responds, “Oh, stunning.”

For thousands of people, this was their first time to hear about this drink. We’re so happy this delightful recipe is getting a well-deserved boost in fame.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Negroni and Negroni Sbagliato?

A Negroni Spagliato is a classic Negroni with Prosecco instead of gin.

What does a Negroni Sbagliato taste like?

This drink is equally sweet and bitter with effervescent bubbles.

More Cocktail Recipes

Print

Negroni Sbagliato

Learn to make a Negroni Sbagliato. Oh, stunning
Course Drinks
Cuisine American, Italian
Keyword Negroni Spagliato
Prep Time 5 minutes
Servings 1 cocktail
Calories 98kcal

Equipment

  • 1 old fashioned glass
  • 1 mixing glass
  • 1 bar spoon

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce Campari
  • 1 ounce sweet vermouth
  • 1 ounce Prosecco

Instructions

  • In a mixing glass, combine Campari and sweet vermouth with ice and stir for 10-15 seconds.
  • Next, strain into an old fashioned glass with a large ice cube. 
  • Slowly pour Prosecco (or any sparkling wine) to top the drink. 
  • Garnish with an orange twist or an orange peel.

Notes

  • Play with the proportions if you want to create a drink that is slightly more stiff or slightly more bubbly.
  • For a lower ABV, you can replace the sparkling wine with soda water. This is a perfect solution for day drinking and makes a delightful sipping drink.
  • This drink can be batched into a pitcher cocktail or punch bowl. For an entire bottle of Prosecco (which is typically 25 ounces), you would want to also increase the Campari and sweet vermouth to 25 ounces.

Nutrition

Calories: 98kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 0.02g
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Pumpkin Juice https://abeautifulmess.com/pumpkin-juice/ https://abeautifulmess.com/pumpkin-juice/#comments Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:02:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=122745 I’ve recently been reading Harry Potter with my children and we had so much fun making our own Butterbeer recipe. The next Harry Potter-inspired recipe we wanted to try is Pumpkin Juice! This recipe is inspired by the one served at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios. You can serve this beverage iced or hot and with or without a whipped topping. We hope you enjoy this magical treat for wizards and muggles alike.

More recipes for kids: Shirley Temple, Roy Rogers Drink, Orange Julius, Wendy’s Frosty, Pink Lemonade.

Ingredients in Harry Potter Pumpkin Juice Recipe

  • Apple Cider – Anything you can find in the juice aisle at your local grocery store will work. You can even use apple juice if you can’t locate apple cider. 
  • Pumpkin Puree – Yes, the same thing you use to make pumpkin pie filling. You may even have a can hiding in your pantry already. 
  • Sugar – To add a hint of sweetness. 
  • Vanilla Extract – For some added depth and flavor.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice – A blend of spices that includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger.

This is a pitcher recipe. I also used these glasses that resemble pumpkins and some orange striped paper straws.

Instructions

In a pitcher, combine apple cider, pumpkin puree, vanilla, pumpkin spice and sugar.

Stir with a whisk or wooden spoon until ingredients are fully combined.

Serve over ice or warmed on the stovetop.

What does Pumpkin Juice taste like?

This drink has a strong pumpkin flavor mixed with apple cider. If I tasted it without knowing what it was, I would probably have guessed it to be a pumpkin spiced apple cider.

Tips for Making

  • If you’ve hosting a Harry Potter party, we recommend also serving Butterbeer, chocolate frogs, every flavor beans and pumpkin pasties. This recipe is perfect for birthdays, Halloween parties or the kids table at Thanksgiving! 
  • We love this recipe served on ice. If you want to try a warmed version, heat it on the stovetop to a simmer on medium heat (not to a boil) and enjoy it in a mug. 
  • If you don’t want to stir for several minutes, you can take a shortcut and use a blender to combine your ingredients. 
  • If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can substitute with half cinnamon and half allspice. 
  • Can you make this recipe ahead? Yes, this can be made ahead and stored in the fridge up to 48 hours before serving.

Harry Potter Books

If you’re interested in experiencing Harry Potter with your kids, we are loving these Harry Potter books which have pop ups as well as the illustrated version.

More fun recipes for kids

We’re off to catch the Hogwarts Express—see you next time!

Print

Harry Potter Pumpkin Juice – NEEDS RECIPE CARD

Learn to make Pumpkin Juice from Harry Potter at home.
Course Drinks
Cuisine American, English
Keyword Pumpkin Juice, Pumpkin Juice Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Servings 8 people
Calories 145kcal

Equipment

  • 1 pitcher

Ingredients

  • 8 cups apple cider
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  • In a pitcher, combine apple cider, pumpkin puree, vanilla, pumpkin spice and sugar.
  • Stir with a whisk or wooden spoon until ingredients are fully combined.
  • Serve over ice or warmed on the stovetop.

Notes

  • If you’ve hosting a Harry Potter party, we recommend also serving Butterbeer, chocolate frogs, every flavor beans and pumpkin pasties. This recipe is perfect for birthdays, Halloween parties or the kids table at Thanksgiving! 
  • We love this recipe served on ice. If you want to try a warmed version, heat it on the stovetop to a simmer on medium heat (not to a boil) and enjoy it in a mug. 
  • If you don’t want to stir for several minutes, you can take a shortcut and use a blender to combine your ingredients. 
  • If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can substitute with half cinnamon and half allspice. 
  • Can you make this recipe ahead? Yes, this can be made ahead and stored in the fridge up to 48 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.4g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 11mg | Potassium: 304mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 4769IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 1mg
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Agua Fresca https://abeautifulmess.com/agua-fresca/ https://abeautifulmess.com/agua-fresca/#comments Tue, 20 Feb 2024 14:08:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=122735 I’m so excited to share this Agua Fresca recipe with you today! This recipe is made with natural ingredients and is perfect for a hot summer’s day. Using just fruit, water, lime juice and bit of sweetener you can mix and match fruits and vegetables to create your own custom flavors.

More refreshing drinks: Mojito, Virgin Mojito, Orange Julius, Date Shake, Pink Drink.

What is Agua Fresca?

Agua Fresca (Spanish for “fresh water”) is a nonalcoholic beverage made by blending water, sweetener, lime juice with fruit, vegetables, seeds or even flowers (like Hibiscus). This recipe is popular throughout Mexico and Central America as well as in the U.S. You can easily find this recipe as well as Horchata at many restaurants and markets. In this easy recipe, you’ll learn to make Agua Fresca at home using your blender.

Ingredients

  • Fresh Fruit – You can use many fresh fruits as well as vegetables, herbs, seeds and even flowers.
  • Water – Filtered water is best for this recipe.
  • Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice.
  • Sweetener – You can use sugar, honey or agave to sweeten this recipe. The sweetener is optional—you may not need it when using sweet, in-season fruits.

How to Make Agua Fresca

In a blender, add fresh fruit, water and lime juice. Blend on smoothie mode.

Add sweetener to taste. You may want to try it before adding sweetener and see if the natural sweetness is enough. If your drink needs sweetener, start with just a teaspoon and go up to a tablespoon if needed. 

Pour into cups with ice and serve immediately. 

Tips for Making

  • Mix your favorite flavors. My personal favorites are pineapple with mint and watermelon with mint and extra lime. 
  • Make a pitcher drink by doubling this recipe. I love to make several flavors to serve at a party or gathering.
  • Leaving the pulp in this drink is healthy and tasty. It is not necessary to strain Agua Fresca, as the natural fiber is a key element of what makes this drink special. If you prefer to strain your drink before enjoying, use a fine mesh sieve to do so.

History

This drink most likely originated in the pre-Columbian era several centuries ago. According to sources, the Aztecs used to go to Tenochtitlan (which is now modern day Mexico City) to purchase fruits to make Agua Fresca.

In the 1940s, this recipe began to be a popular street food, being sold from carts on street corners and in markets. Agua Fresca is to Mexico and Central America the equivalent of what lemonade is in America—the most popular, traditional summertime beverage.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Agua Fresca made of?

Fruit (or vegetables, seeds, herbs or flowers) are blended with water, lime juice and sweetener to make an Agua Fresca.

Are Agua Frescas healthy?

Yes. Auga Frescas are made with natural ingredients and contain fiber that many believe makes them more healthy than a juice.

How is Agua Fresca different from juice?

An Agua Fresca is typically served with pulp (natural fiber), giving it a different consistency and texture than juice as well as an added health benefit.

The Best Fruit for Agua Frescas

These are the best fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers we recommend using for your recipe.

  • Strawberries – Use hulled strawberries. They are rich with vitamin C.
  • Pineapple – One of the most popular recipes. Try it with fresh mint!
  • Cantaloupe – Use it alone or combined with another melon fruit.
  • Honeydew Melon – Is a fresh and delicious fruit to use.
  • Cucumber – Combines well with mint.
  • Guava – Tastes great sweetened with agave and use extra lime juice.
  • Watermelon – Watermelon Agua Fresca is probably the most popular variation.
  • Hibiscus Flowers – The most popular flower for this recipe.
  • Tamarind – A very popular fruit to use in Mexico.
  • Banana – This popular variation is best served with cinnamon.

These are the fruits we don’t recommend for this recipe.

  • Blueberries – Really, any kind of berries are not great for this recipe, including raspberries, cranberries and blackberries as well. 
  • Avocados – Although amazing in smoothies, we don’t recommend avocados for this recipe.

More Healthy Recipes

Print

Agua Fresca

Learn to make refreshing Agua Fresca at home. Easy, healthy recipe!
Course Drinks
Cuisine latin american, Mexican
Keyword Agua Fresca
Prep Time 5 minutes
Servings 4 glasses
Calories 40kcal

Equipment

  • 1 High speed blender

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fruit chopped
  • 1 cup water
  • ½ lime juiced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

  • In a blender, add fresh fruit, water and lime juice. Blend on smoothie mode.
  • Add sweetener to taste. You may want to try it before adding sweetener and see if the natural sweetness is enough. If your drink needs sweetener, start with just a teaspoon and go up to a tablespoon if needed. 
  • Pour into cups with ice and serve immediately. 

Notes

Mix your favorite flavors. My personal favorites are pineapple with mint and watermelon with mint and extra lime. 
Make a pitcher drink by doubling this recipe. I love to make several flavors to serve at a party or gathering.
Leaving the pulp in this drink is healthy and tasty. It is not necessary to strain Agua Fresca as the natural fiber is a key element of what makes this drink special. If you prefer to strain your drink before enjoying, use a fine mesh sieve to do so.

Nutrition

Calories: 40kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.003g | Sodium: 6mg | Potassium: 61mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 183IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 0.2mg
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35+ Coffee Recipes https://abeautifulmess.com/coffee-recipes/ https://abeautifulmess.com/coffee-recipes/#comments Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:09:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=121763 I love coffee and espresso drinks! And while I certainly love ordering at my favorite coffee shop when I’m out of the house or traveling, more often than not I am working or spending time at home. So, being able to make all my favorite coffee recipes at home is a priority to me.

In this post, we’ve put together all our best coffee recipes, which includes different ways to make great coffee at home, pretty much every espresso drink you can think of, as well as lots of Starbucks copycat recipes and seasonal drinks, too.

Related: In many of these posts, we list the coffee makers or tools we use. But one of the best investments I ever made (in that we use it nearly daily and have for well over a year now) is our favorite home espresso maker. It’s easy to use and to clean and we use the same whole beans to make coffee as espresso.

How to Brew Coffee in a Chemex

Tips for brewing the best coffee using a Chemex, sometimes also called pour over coffee.

How to Brew Coffee in an Aeropress

Tips for brewing the best coffee in an Aeropress, which is great for single cups or travel.

Red Eye Coffee

Need a boost of caffeine? Red eye coffee is here for you.

How to Make Cold Brew Coffee

Step-by-step instructions to make cold brew coffee at home.

Espresso Martini

Create this iconic espresso martini with just three ingredients.

Breve Coffee

Like a rich, mini latte—the breve is such a treat.

Whipped (Dalgona) Coffee

How to make whipped coffee from three ingredients.

Iced Mocha

The cold (iced) version of a classic mocha—perfect for warm weather times.

How to Make an Affogato

An Italian dessert with espresso and ice cream.

Latte Recipe

How to make a classic latte at home—no fancy barista skills needed.

Mocha Frappe

A cold blended coffee drink—like a coffee chocolate milkshake.

Mexican Coffee

A Starbucks copycat version of Mexican coffee that is spicy and chocolate-y and delicious!

Iced Chai Latte

Spicy black tea mixed with milk over ice—although technically not coffee or espresso, it’s a must!

Homemade Frappuccino

A blended, cold coffee drink anyone will love! Learn to make this Starbucks favorite at home.

Chai Latte

Black tea mixed with spices and warm milk, a truly comforting drink.

How to Make French Press Coffee

How to make the prefect cup of French press coffee.

Vegan Café Bombón

Sometimes called a “Cuban coffee,” this is basically a dessert coffee that’s popular in Spain.

How to Make a Cappuccino

An easy cappuccino recipe anyone can make at home.

Iced Latte

Learn to make the best iced latte at home—the perfect warm weather treat.

Macchiato

This drink is espresso marked by a little milk foam—a classic Italian macchiato.

Coffee Soda

Learn to make this fizzy, refreshing coffee drink at home!

Coffee Smoothie

Make a delicious coffee smoothie in just five minutes.

Cortado

How to make a classic Italian Cortado like a pro.

Café Au Lait

Learn to make this classic French coffee drink.

Irish Coffee

The most classic caffeinated cocktail, perfect for holidays or a winter nightcap.

How to Make a Mocha

Learn to make one of my most favorite drinks—a chocolate latte, also called a mocha.

Café Con Leche

This beloved Spanish drink seamlessly marries the bold flavors of coffee with the creamy, smoothness of milk.

Americano

The classic espresso and hot water drink which originates from Italy.

Flat White

This classic coffee drink, invented in Australia, is very easy to make and only requires two ingredients.

Caramel Macchiato

This is the Starbucks copycat version of a Caramel macchiato.

Apple Crisp Macchiato

This latte macchiato tastes like apples and cinnamon and is perfect for autumn.

Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew

How to make your favorite Starbucks fall drink at home.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Learn to make this famous spicy seasonal espresso drink at home.

Gingerbread Latte

This drink combines the bold flavors of gingerbread cookies with the creaminess of a latte and is such a treat for the holidays.

Peppermint Mocha

While yes, this is an espresso-based drink, it tastes more like a peppermint hot chocolate with whipped cream when I make it at home. Happy holidays!

Eggnog Latte

A rich and creamy latte made with eggnog, including our recipe for homemade eggnog.

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Mexican Coffee https://abeautifulmess.com/mexican-coffee/ https://abeautifulmess.com/mexican-coffee/#comments Tue, 30 Jan 2024 14:04:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=121849 This is my take on a Starbucks copycat version of Mexican coffee. If you’ve never had it before, it’s a super flavorful, slightly spicy, chocolatley coffee drink topped with whipped cream. While it’s not quite as creamy and sweet as a mocha, it’s not far off.

Traditional Mexican coffee, or Café de Olla, is made with coffee, cinnamon and raw dark sugar (find a great recipe here). You can also make a Mexican coffee cocktail that includes coffee liqueur and tequila. But this version is alcohol-free and more on the chocolate side. This Mexican coffee recipe is great for an afternoon pick-me-up or a sweeter morning coffee drink.

Related: Next, try Whipped Dalgona Coffee, Café Au Lait or Café Con Leche.

Ingredients

  • Coffee
  • Brown sugar
  • Cocoa
  • Cinnamon
  • Cayenne
  • Milk
  • Whipped cream – optional

Directions

First brew 6 ounces of hot coffee. You can do this by using any coffee brewing method you prefer. Learn to make chemex coffee, French press, or Aeropress here.

Mix together the brown sugar, cocoa, cinnamon, cayenne and milk. The goal is to dissolve the sugar and fully incorporate the other ingredients so no lumps remain. I think adding all the ingredients to a jar with a lid and shaking well works great, or you could use a small whisk or milk frothing wand.

Pour the spiced milk into a mug. Then pour the hot coffee in. Top with whipped cream if using.

Tips & Substitutions

  • Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spices of this recipe to your liking.
  • You can use any kind of milk, including milk alternatives like oat milk.
  • Learn how to make whipped cream at home.
  • If you like/need, you can use decaf coffee for this recipe as well.

Serving Suggestions

Who doesn’t love a sweet treat along with their coffee drink? Try these:

Print

Mexican Coffee

Course Drinks
Cuisine American, Mexican
Keyword coffee
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1
Calories 136kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 ounces coffee
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • teaspoon cayenne
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ¼ cup whipped cream optional

Instructions

  • First brew 6 ounces of hot coffee. You can do this by using any coffee brewing method you prefer.
  • Mix together the brown sugar, cocoa, cinnamon, cayenne and milk. The goal is to dissolve the sugar and fully incorporate the other ingredients so no lumps remain. I think adding all the ingredients to a jar with a lid and shaking well works great, or you could use a small whisk or milk frothing wand.
  • Pour the spiced milk into a mug.
  • Then pour the hot coffee in.
  • Top with whipped cream if using.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spices of this recipe to your liking.
You can use any kind of milk, including milk alternatives like oat milk.
If you like/need, you can use decaf coffee for this recipe as well.

Nutrition

Calories: 136kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 32mg | Potassium: 296mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 307IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 115mg | Iron: 1mg
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Breve Coffee https://abeautifulmess.com/breve-coffee/ https://abeautifulmess.com/breve-coffee/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=120762 Breve coffee, or caffe breve as it’s sometimes called, is a lesser known but common and truly delicious drink! It’s made with equal parts espresso and half and half (light cream). I think it tastes like a more creamy, indulgent version of a cortado.

At some coffee shops, if you simply ask for a breve coffee or breve, they may make you a latte with half and half instead of milk. But the traditional version is smaller and a 1:1 ratio.

Related: Love espresso drinks? Learn to make a traditional macchiato, latte, cappuccino and americano. You may also want to try an espresso martini.

Ingredients

  • Espresso
  • Half and half – sometimes called light cream

Half and half is different from heavy whipping cream and whole milk. For a traditional breve coffee, use half and half.

Directions

Brew a shot of fresh espresso.

Steam the half and half until hot.

Pour the cream into the espresso and enjoy.

Best Home Espresso Machines

  • Cafe Automatic Espresso Machine – My current machine. It uses any whole beans, so if you use high quality beans you’ll get high quality espresso. It makes espresso shots automatically (no barista skills required) and includes a milk frothing wand to heat and froth milk. We’ve used this machine almost every day since we got it a year ago and we love it! It comes in three colors.
  • Stovetop Espresso – This is the cheapest way to make espresso at home. It’s more labor intensive and you will also need a way to grind your beans for best results. But, this is a classic method that works great when done well.
  • Breville Barista Touch – We bought this for a good friend as a wedding gift once and they said they love it. It’s a higher end machine that you will need some barista skills to operate, but it’s an excellent home espresso maker.
  • Nespresso Vertuo – For those who want an espresso maker that uses pods, this is my favorite. Depending what pod you use, it can make espresso or coffee.
Print

Breve Coffee

Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Keyword espresso
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1
Calories 40kcal

Equipment

  • espresso maker

Ingredients

  • 1 shot espresso
  • 1 ounce half and half

Instructions

  • Brew a shot of fresh espresso.
  • Steam the half and half until hot.
  • Pour the cream into the espresso and enjoy.

Notes

Half and half is different from heavy whipping cream and whole milk. For a traditional breve coffee, use half and half.

Nutrition

Calories: 40kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 21mg | Potassium: 72mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 100IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 0.1mg
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Red Eye Coffee https://abeautifulmess.com/red-eye-coffee/ https://abeautifulmess.com/red-eye-coffee/#comments Wed, 10 Jan 2024 14:03:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=120771 Red eye coffee, sometimes called red eye flight coffee, is simply a coffee topped with a shot of espresso. It’s easy to make at home and if you’re needing a caffeine fix, then it certainly will do the trick.

Red eye coffee was named after “red eye” flights, that go from the West Coast to New York overnight. The idea being you’d need some extra caffeine strength to stay awake for that kind of flight.

Related: Love coffee and espresso drinks? Find more in our full drinks archive.

Ingredients

  • Coffee – black, any brew method
  • Espresso

With only two ingredients, the quality of the coffee and espresso you use will make a huge impact on this drink.

Directions

Brew the coffee according to whatever brew method you prefer to use. You can learn how to brew coffee in a Chemex, French Press, or Aeropress.

Brew the espresso shot. Pour the espresso into the coffee and enjoy hot.

Best Home Espresso Makers

We’ve tried many espresso makers over the years, and here are our favorites at different price points and skill levels:

  • Cafe Automatic Espresso Machine – My current machine. It uses any whole beans, so if you use high quality beans you’ll get high quality espresso. It makes espresso shots automatically (no barista skills required) and includes a milk frothing wand to heat and froth milk. We’ve used this machine almost every day since we got over a year ago and we love it! It comes in three colors.
  • Stovetop Espresso – This is the cheapest way to make espresso at home. It’s more labor intensive and you will also need a way to grind your beans for best results. But, this is a classic method that works great when done well.
  • Breville Barista Touch – We bought this for a good friend as a wedding gift once and they said they love it. It’s a higher end machine that you will need some barista skills to operate, but it’s an excellent home espresso maker.
  • Nespresso Vertuo – For those who want an espresso maker that uses pods, this is my favorite. Depending what pod you use, it can make espresso or coffee.

Serving Suggestions

Maybe you’d like something sweet with this coffee drink? Try one of these:

Print

Red Eye Coffee

Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Keyword coffee, espresso
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1
Calories 4kcal

Equipment

  • coffee maker
  • espresso maker

Ingredients

  • 6 ounces coffee
  • 1 shot espresso

Instructions

Notes

With only two ingredients, the quality of the coffee and espresso you use will make a huge impact on this drink.

Nutrition

Calories: 4kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 8mg | Potassium: 118mg | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.1mg
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Flat White https://abeautifulmess.com/flat-white/ https://abeautifulmess.com/flat-white/#comments Thu, 04 Jan 2024 14:09:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=120421 If you are looking for a smooth and balanced espresso and milk drink, then you need to try a flat white. This coffee drink recipe is very easy to make and only requires two ingredients. It was invented in Australia, becoming popular in the 1980s, but then has made its way around the world as a favorite espresso drink since.

What is a flat white? I think of it as in between a latte and cappuccino. A flat white has less milk to espresso as a latte and the milk it does contain tends to be more on the micro foam side, but it’s less foamy than a cappuccino. It’s like a larger sized cortado.

Related: Next up, learn how to make a caramel macchiato, mocha, or americano.

Ingredients

  • Espresso
  • Milk

With so few ingredients, keep in mind the quality of ingredients will make a difference! I personally love to buy my coffee beans locally from a coffee shop that roasts them as I know they are fresh and high quality.

You can use a milk alternative instead of dairy milk if you like, but keep in mind it may not foam the same way dairy milk (which contains fat) does.

Directions

Brew two shots of espresso.

Steam the milk using a frothing wand, milk frother, or by heating on the stovetop and whisking. The goal is to thicken the milk but there should not be large bubbles. Give the pitcher (or other container) a few taps on the counter to remove excess air (bubbles) from the foam.

Add the fresh espresso to a mug, then pour the steamed milk into the espresso.

Best Home Espresso Makers

We’ve tried many espresso makers over the years, and here are our favorites at different price points and skill levels:

  • Cafe Automatic Espresso Machine – My current machine. It uses any whole beans, so if you use high quality beans you’ll get high quality espresso. It makes espresso shots automatically (no barista skills required) and includes a milk frothing wand to heat and froth milk. We’ve used this machine almost every day since we got it a year ago and we love it! It comes in three colors.
  • Stovetop Espresso – This is the cheapest way to make espresso at home. It’s more labor intensive and you will also need a way to grind your beans for best results. But, this is a classic method that works great when done well.
  • Breville Barista Touch – We bought this for a good friend as a wedding gift once and they said they love it. It’s a higher end machine that you will need some barista skills to operate, but it’s an excellent home espresso maker.
  • Nespresso Vertuo – For those who want an espresso maker that uses pods, this is my favorite. Depending what pod you use, it can make espresso or coffee.

Serving Suggestions

Need something sweet to go with your flat white? Try these recipes:

Print

Flat White

Course Drinks
Cuisine Australian
Keyword espresso
Prep Time 3 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes
Servings 1
Calories 188kcal

Equipment

  • espresso maker

Ingredients

  • 2 shots espresso
  • cups milk

Instructions

  • Brew two shots of espresso.
  • Steam the milk using a frothing wand, milk frother, or by heating on the stovetop and whisking. The goal is to thicken the milk but there should not be large bubbles.
  • Give the pitcher (or other container) a few taps on the counter to remove excess air (bubbles) from the foam.
  • Add the fresh espresso to a mug, then pour the steamed milk into the espresso.

Notes

You can use a milk alternative instead of dairy milk if you like, but keep in mind it may not foam the same way dairy milk (which contains fat) does.

Nutrition

Calories: 188kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 124mg | Potassium: 527mg | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 494IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 376mg | Iron: 0.1mg
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Sherbet Punch https://abeautifulmess.com/sherbet-punch/ https://abeautifulmess.com/sherbet-punch/#comments Thu, 14 Dec 2023 14:01:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=119488 Sherbet punch is a sweet and creamy drink that is easy to make and a crowd-pleaser for just about any party or occasion. The sweet and creamy sherbet on top of the fruity and fizzy punch is the perfect combo and it looks so pretty when served in a punch bowl. This recipe is fast to put together, easy to make a large amount, and only has four ingredients.

Sherbet punch is such a nostalgic drink for a lot of people as this was a class go-to for most of our grandmas’ holiday parties, and I know I have very fond memories of drinking this and trying to scoop out the biggest pieces of sherbet into my glass as a kid.

Looking for other punch recipes? Try:

rainbow sherbet punch

What is sherbet?

While it is a cousin of ice cream, sherbet has a much lower dairy content than ice cream. While ice cream’s main ingredients are milk or cream, sherbet has fruit juice or fruit puree as its base so it’s a lighter and fruitier taste.

rainbow sherbet punch ingredients

Ingredients for sherbet punch

  • Lemon-lime soda: The soda is what gives your punch the festive fizz! You can use Sprite or 7Up for this punch (or any other type of lemon-lime soda). Some people like to use ginger ale as that gives it a little bit of that ginger kick or you could use specialty flavors like cranberry Sprite as well.
  • Frozen orange juice: Adding orange juice gives it some sweetness and another layer of fruity goodness.
  • Pineapple juice (optional): The pineapple juice will add a slight tart note to your punch to help balance out some of the sweetness (but if you aren’t a pineapple fan, you can also leave it out and it’s still delicious).
  • Rainbow sherbet: While it doesn’t have to be rainbow sherbet, the rainbow variety is the prettiest and it adds several flavors to your punch bowl since each color is its own flavor. Feel free to use just orange, lime, etc., though if that’s what you prefer.

How to make sherbet punch

  • Pour: Pour your soda, pineapple juice, and thawed orange juice into your punch bowl and gently stir to combine.
  • Scoop: Scoop your rainbow sherbet into your punch bowl on top of your punch.
  • Serve: Ladle your punch into your cups and serve! Feel free to add some citrus fruit slices to your bowl as well for some extra color.
rainbow sherbet punch

Sherbet punch variations:

Valentine’s Day Sherbet Punch: Use Hawaiian Punch and soda and top with raspberry sherbet for a delicious red and pink punch!

Tropical Sherbet Punch: Leave out the orange juice and use tropical fruit punch, pineapple juice, and soda with pineapple or lime sherbet.

Christmas Sherbet Punch: Use Hawaiian Punch and soda and top with lime sherbet for a red and green combo (or use green Hawaiian Punch with strawberry sherbet!).

St. Patrick’s Day Sherbet Punch: Use green Hawaiian Punch, soda, lime sherbet, and some vodka or rum for a boozy St. Patrick’s punch.

rainbow sherbet punch

Tips for Making

  • Leave your sherbet out on the counter for 5-10 minutes before scooping if you want it to be soft enough to scoop more easily.
  • As the sherbet melts, the punch will get sweeter, so keep some extra punch ingredients on hand if you want to pour in a little more soda and juice later on to keep the balance just right.
  • Look for seasonal flavors of Sprite and 7Up (like cranberry around the holidays) to add another flavor twist on the classic.
  • Make sure your soda and juices are chilled before mixing so the punch will be nice and cold.
  • You can also add fresh fruit like orange or lime slices for additional color to the top of your punch bowl.
  • Try adding rum or vodka to make an adult sherbet punch!

Frequently Asked Questions

How far ahead can I make sherbet punch?

Technically, you can add your punch ingredients (soda, pineapple juice, and orange juice) to a bowl a few hours before the party and keep in your fridge until it’s time to add the sherbet and serve, but you will lose some soda fizziness by mixing it ahead of time. Ideally, it’s best to make right before serving.

Can you save leftover punch?

You can save leftover punch in the fridge in a closed container, but the fizziness of the soda will fade and the sherbet will fully melt, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Do I have to serve sherbet punch in a punch bowl?

No! You can also serve this in a pitcher although it can be hard to get scoops of sherbet into cups when pouring from a spout. If using a pitcher, consider scooping some extra sherbet into the cup so each person gets a scoop.

Try serving your punch with these appetizers:

rainbow sherbet punch
Print

Sherbet Punch

A sweet and creamy rainbow sherbet punch that only needs four ingredients!
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Keyword punch
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 15 people
Calories 219kcal
Cost $8

Ingredients

  • ½ gallon rainbow sherbet
  • 1 can concentrated frozen orange juice (thawed)
  • 1 2 liter Sprite or 7Up (chilled)
  • 2 cups pineapple juice (chilled)

Instructions

  • Pour: Pour your soda, pineapple juice, and thawed orange juice into your punch bowl and gently stir to combine.
  • Scoop: Scoop your rainbow sherbet into your punch bowl on top of your punch.
  • Serve: Ladle your punch into your cups and serve!

Notes

Tips for Making

  • Leave your sherbet out on the counter for 5-10 minutes before scooping if you want it to be soft enough to scoop more easily.
  • As the sherbet melts, the punch will get sweeter, so keep some extra punch ingredients on hand if you want to pour in a little more soda and juice later on to keep the balance just right.
  • Look for seasonal flavors of Sprite and 7Up (like cranberry around the holidays) to add another flavor twist on the classic.
  • Make sure your soda and juices are chilled before mixing so the punch will be nice and cold.
  • You can also add fresh fruit like orange or lime slices for additional color to the top of your punch bowl.
  • Try adding rum or vodka to make an adult sherbet punch!
 

Sherbet punch variations:

Valentine’s Day Sherbet Punch: Use Hawaiian Punch and soda and top with raspberry sherbet for a delicious red and pink punch!
Tropical Sherbet Punch: Leave out the orange juice and use tropical fruit punch, pineapple juice, and soda with pineapple or lime sherbet.
Christmas Sherbet Punch: Use Hawaiian Punch and soda and top with lime sherbet for a red and green combo (or use green Hawaiian Punch with strawberry sherbet!).
St. Patrick’s Day Sherbet Punch: Use green Hawaiian Punch, soda, lime sherbet, and some vodka or rum for a boozy St. Patrick’s punch.

Nutrition

Calories: 219kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 60mg | Potassium: 251mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 38g | Vitamin A: 113IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 78mg | Iron: 0.3mg
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Eggnog Latte https://abeautifulmess.com/eggnog-latte/ https://abeautifulmess.com/eggnog-latte/#comments Thu, 07 Dec 2023 14:02:00 +0000 https://abeautifulmess.com/?p=119666 An eggnog latte is my favorite way to enjoy eggnog during the holiday season. I just think the rich, creamy and lightly sweet and spicy taste of eggnog pairs so well with fresh brewed espresso. Whoever invited the eggnog latte has my deepest gratitude. It’s one of my all-time favorite espresso drinks.

This is also a very easy drink to make at home and since the Starbucks eggnog latte is no longer available on their holiday menu, you will love this recipe. With simple ingredients compared to the complex flavor, an eggnog latte is the perfect seasonal treat when you need a little caffeine pick-me-up.

Related: Love classic espresso-based drinks? Next up, learn to make a proper cortado, macchiato, affogato, espresso martini and cappuccino, 35+ coffee recipes.

Ingredients

Directions

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to extract a rich, concentrated shot of espresso.

The secret to a luscious latte lies in perfectly frothed milk, or in this case eggnog. If you have an espresso machine with a steam wand, place the wand just below the surface of the milk and turn it on.

Tilt the pitcher slightly to create a swirling motion. Continue steaming until the eggnog has doubled in volume and has a smooth, velvety texture.

If you don’t have a steam wand, you can heat the milk on the stovetop and whisk by hand or use a milk frother vigorously until it becomes frothy.

Pour the espresso into a mug along with the simple syrup, then pour the hot and frothy eggnog on top. A sprinkle of nutmeg is optional.

Tips For Making

  • Add whipped cream as am optional topping. 
  • Choose a dairy-free eggnog to create a vegan version of this homemade eggnog latte. 
  • If you don’t have a milk frother you can also blend your drink or shake it in a cocktail shaker (or mason jar) to froth the eggnog.
  • If you don’t have an espresso maker, espresso powder (or even strong coffee) can be substituted to create this recipe.

Best Home Espresso Makers

We’ve tried many espresso makers over the years, and here are our favorites at different price points and skill levels:

  • Cafe Automatic Espresso Machine – My current machine. It uses any whole beans, so if you use high quality beans you’ll get high quality espresso. It makes espresso shots automatically (no barista skills required) and includes a milk frothing wand to heat and froth milk. We’ve used this machine almost every day since I got it for Christmas last year, love it! It comes in three colors.
  • Stovetop Espresso – This is the cheapest way to make espresso at home. It’s more labor intensive and you will also need a way to grind your beans for best results. But this is a classic method that works great when done well.
  • Breville Barista Touch – We bought this for a good friend as a wedding gift once and they said they love it. It’s a higher end machine that you will need some barista skills to operate, but it’s an excellent home espresso maker.
  • Nespresso Vertuo – For those who want an espresso maker that uses pods, this is my favorite. Depending what pod you use, it can make espresso or coffee.

More Seasonal Drink Recipes

Print

Eggnog Latte

a rich and creamy latte made with eggnog
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Keyword eggnog, espresso
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1
Calories 280kcal

Equipment

  • espresso maker

Ingredients

  • 1 shot espresso
  • 1 cup eggnog
  • 1 tablespoon simple syrup

Instructions

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to extract a rich, concentrated shot of espresso.
  • The secret to a luscious latte lies in perfectly frothed milk, or in this case eggnog. If you have an espresso machine with a steam wand, place the wand just below the surface of the milk and turn it on.
  • Tilt the pitcher slightly to create a swirling motion. Continue steaming until the eggnog has doubled in volume and has a smooth, velvety texture.
  • If you don’t have a steam wand, you can heat the milk on the stovetop and whisk by hand or use a milk frother vigorously until it becomes frothy.
  • Pour the espresso into a mug along with the simple syrup, then pour the hot and frothy eggnog on top.
  • Sprinkle on a little nutmeg, optional.

Notes

The simple syrup is optional in this recipe. While I think most eggnog lattes do get sweetened, it’s such a rich and creamy drink that if you want to leave it unsweetened, that’s fine too. Many eggnog recipes already contain some sugar anyway. 

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 150mg | Sodium: 153mg | Potassium: 466mg | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 523IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 333mg | Iron: 1mg
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