Coffee milk might sound like just coffee with milk, but it’s actually a beloved regional specialty, especially in Rhode Island, where it’s the official state drink. If you’ve never tried it, coffee milk is a deliciously sweet and creamy beverage made by mixing coffee syrup with milk. It’s easy to make, refreshing, and perfect for any time of day. Let’s dive into how you can make coffee milk at home, plus some tips and variations to customize your drink.
What Is Coffee Milk?
Coffee milk is essentially milk flavored with a sweet coffee syrup. Unlike iced coffee or lattes, coffee milk uses a concentrated coffee syrup that’s mixed directly into cold or warm milk. The syrup is made by brewing strong coffee and reducing it with sugar until it becomes thick and sweet. This syrup is then added to milk to create a smooth, creamy drink with a perfect balance of coffee flavor and sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Milk: Whole milk is traditional for the creamiest taste, but you can use 2%, skim, or even plant-based milk like almond or oat milk if you prefer.
– Coffee syrup: You can buy pre-made coffee syrup, especially brands like Eclipse which are popular in New England. Or, you can make your own syrup at home using coffee and sugar.
– Optional: Ice if you want your coffee milk cold, or a scoop of ice cream if you want to make a “cabinet” (a Rhode Island term for a coffee milk milkshake).
How to Make Coffee Milk at Home
Step 1: Make the Coffee Syrup
If you don’t have coffee syrup on hand, making your own is simple:
- Brew a strong coffee using about 1/2 cup of finely ground coffee and 2 cups of water.
- Pour the brewed coffee into a saucepan and add 1 cup of sugar.
- Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by half and thickens into a syrup.
- Let the syrup cool, then store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Step 2: Mix Your Coffee Milk
- Fill a glass or pitcher about two-thirds full with your choice of milk.
- Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee syrup per 8 ounces of milk. Adjust the amount depending on how strong or sweet you want your drink.
- Stir well until the syrup is fully blended with the milk.
- Add ice if you want a chilled coffee milk.
Step 3: Optional – Make a Cabinet
For an indulgent treat, blend your coffee milk with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a “cabinet,” a sweet, creamy milkshake-like drink that’s a Rhode Island favorite.
Tips for the Perfect Coffee Milk
– Adjust sweetness and strength: Everyone’s taste is different. Start with less syrup and add more until you find your perfect balance.
– Try different milks: Dairy-free options like oat or almond milk work great and offer different flavors and textures.
– Use quality coffee: The syrup’s flavor depends on the coffee you use, so pick a coffee you enjoy drinking on its own.
– Serve cold or warm: Coffee milk is delicious chilled over ice or warmed up for a cozy treat.
Why Coffee Milk Is Special
Coffee milk isn’t just a drink; it’s a cultural icon in Rhode Island and parts of New England. It’s simple, comforting, and nostalgic for many. The sweet coffee syrup is the heart of the drink, delivering a unique flavor that’s both rich and refreshing. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just two main ingredients and a little patience for the syrup.
Whether you’re looking for a new coffee twist or want to try a regional specialty, coffee milk is a delightful way to enjoy coffee’s bold flavor with creamy sweetness.
Enjoy your homemade coffee milk anytime you want a sweet, smooth coffee treat!
Coffee milk is a quick, tasty, and versatile drink that anyone can make at home with just a few ingredients and a little love. Give it a try and discover why it’s the favorite drink of many in Rhode Island and beyond.