Sherene is a culinary-trained Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for nutribullet focused on making delicious plant-based eats sustainable and accessible for all. She believes that food cultures and traditions should be celebrated and incorporated as part of living a happy and healthy life. When she’s not learning about a new ingredient or food at her local farmers market, you can find Sherene teaching food justice and culinary nutrition to health professionals nationwide.
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the United States. However, going out to buy coffee to fuel your daily buzz is costly and time-consuming. Let’s learn how we can get that coffee shop taste without investing in the time and added costs of venturing out. We interviewed nutribullet’s in-house chef, Mayra Lopez, for the best tips and tricks for making coffee shop coffee at home.
Tip 1: Create a Coffee Station
Mayra says, “For a care-free morning, set up a coffee station customized for your family and morning routine. Designate a space for all your coffee essentials, coffee machine, canisters to hold and organize ingredients, mugs, stirrers, and more.” You can also personalize the space with designated mugs and coffee decor to make an inviting corner.
Tip 2: Curate Sustainable Upgrades
Upgrade your coffee with a few simple tools to make coffee at home more sustainable. You’re already reducing waste by not throwing out single-use paper and plastic cups from each coffee purchase. Mayra says, “Look for reusable pods to add and refill with your favorite grind.” This gives you the flexibility to curate beans from your local roastery. Plus, you can switch them out with each brew without adding more to the landfill
If you’re brewing a larger batch in the carafe, invest in a silicone ice cube tray. This is a great way to use leftover coffee. Mayra says, “Freeze coffee for latte pops or coffee cubes for a blended Vanilla Bean Infused Iced Coffee.”
Tip 3: Craft Homemade Milks and Sweeteners
Express your creativity with specialty drinks. Build your coffee corner with homemade dairy-free milk and naturally sweetened syrups without the upcharge. Here are a few recipes to try.
Vanilla Rose Milk. Elevate your brew with homemade almond milk, infused with rose and fragrant vanilla beans. Use this milk to make a Rose Vanilla Latte.
Caramel Creamer. Naturally sweetened with dates, this caramel creamer can be used to sweeten any drink. Try this creamy caramel in a homemade Salted Caramel Latte.
Make enough for the week and refrigerate in an airtight container. If you’re pinched on time, Mayra says, “Use extracts like vanilla, almond, or mint to infuse in your milk and drinks.” This gives your coffee an added extra boost of flavor.