New Orleans Cafe Especiale
Great New Orleans style coffee is a natural pick for a dessert-themed bridal shower, cozy stay-at-home bachelorette party or holiday fiesta! Serve this fancy pants beverage to friends and family anytime this winter and watch them smile!
INGREDIENTS
1-1/2 cups whole milk
2/3 cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 (2-inch) cinnamon sticks
1 strip orange peel, about 1/2 inch by 3 inches
10 cloves, whole
2 to 2-1/2 cups hot brewed strong coffee
1/4 cup cold heavy cream
Ground cinnamon, for garnish
Cocoa, for garnish
(For a stronger coffee flavor, add an extra 1/4 cup hot espresso coffee to the mixture)
DIRECTIONS
In a medium saucepan, mix the milk, 2/3 cup of the sugar, and unsweetened cocoa until smooth. Add cinnamon sticks, orange peel and cloves. Bring to a simmer while stirring constantly so that sugar dissolves and cocoa doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from the heat and cover. Let mixture steep for 10 minutes.
In a medium bowl, whip the cream with the remaining 1 teaspoon sugar until thick and frothy, and peaks form. Set aside. (You can also use Cool Whip or canned whipped cream. It's easier and mistake-proof. If going with the lattre, forego that extra teaspoon of sugar).
Strain the milk mixture into a coffee pot or carafe. Add 2 cups of the hot coffee (2-1/2 cups for stronger coffee. Use espresso for real coffee lovers who are savoring desserts). Pour into fancy cups or cozy mugs. Top each lavishly with sweetened whipped cream. Sprinkle ground cinnamon and cocoa on top for garnish.
Serve immediately.
