Cafe Cubano Latte: Homemade Liquid Coffee Creamer

The aroma of Cafe Cubano always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She’d brew it strong and dark, a potent elixir that fueled her storytelling. While I loved the taste, sometimes it needed a little something extra—a touch of sweetness and creaminess. One morning, rummaging through her sparse pantry, I discovered the magic of condensed and evaporated milk. Combining them, along with a splash of vanilla, I created a latte that was pure comfort and nostalgia in a cup.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 minutes
• Yields: 36 ounces
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (whole milk, lots of sugar!)
• 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk (whole milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 10 ounces water

Equipment Needed

• Measuring cups or liquid measuring pitcher
• Whisk or spoon
• Empty milk jug or container for storage
• Can opener

Instructions

1. Open both cans of milk using a can opener.
2. Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk into a large measuring cup or pitcher.
3. Add the entire can of evaporated milk to the same measuring cup or pitcher.
4. Use the water to rinse out each of the cans individually. This ensures you get every last bit of milk and also measures the water accurately. Add the water from each can rinse to the measuring cup or pitcher.
5. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the milk mixture.
6. Using a whisk or spoon, thoroughly combine all the ingredients until they are well blended and the mixture is smooth.
7. Pour the homemade creamer into a clean container, such as an empty milk jug or a glass jar, for storage.
8. Serve with your preferred brew of Cafe Cubano.
9. Refrigerate the creamer if you anticipate using it frequently, especially if you have company.
10. For individual servings, you can freeze the creamer in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for longer storage.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Vanilla Bean Infusion: For a more intense vanilla flavor, scrape the seeds from half of a vanilla bean and add them to the milk mixture. Let it sit for 30 minutes before whisking.
• Lactose-Free Option: While the traditional recipe uses sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk derived from cow’s milk, you can explore lactose-free alternatives. Look for sweetened condensed coconut milk and evaporated coconut milk to maintain the creamy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions. The taste will be subtly different, but still delicious.
• Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet creamer, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly and add a little more evaporated milk. Taste and adjust to your preference.
• Preventing Separation: If you notice any separation in the creamer after refrigeration, simply shake or stir it well before using. The high sugar content from the sweetened condensed milk can sometimes cause slight separation, but it does not affect the quality or taste.
• Warming it Up: Feel free to warm the creamer slightly before adding it to your coffee, especially during colder months. Just be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the milk to curdle. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly, or microwave in short intervals.
• Coffee Concentrate: For an even more intense coffee flavor, try adding a shot or two of cooled espresso directly to the creamer mixture. This will create a mocha-like flavor that is incredibly decadent.
• Enhancing the Vanilla: Use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract for a deeper, richer vanilla flavour. Only use about half a teaspoon of the paste to begin with, then add more to your liking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your homemade Cafe Cubano Latte creamer with a freshly brewed cup of strong Cafe Cubano. The rich, creamy texture and sweetness of the creamer will perfectly complement the bold, intense flavor of the coffee. You can also experiment with using the creamer in other coffee drinks, such as lattes, cappuccinos, or even iced coffee.

Store any leftover creamer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, freeze the creamer in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. Frozen creamer cubes can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the cubes in the refrigerator before using. Do not leave the creamer at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as this can promote bacterial growth.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1 oz)	% Daily Value*
Calories	48.4 kcal	2%
Total Fat	1.7 g	2%
Saturated Fat	1 g	5%
Cholesterol	6.5 mg	2%
Sodium	24.2 mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate	7 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	6 g	24%
Protein	1.5 g	3%

• Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spiced Crema: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the milk mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Chocolate Mocha: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. You may need to add a bit more sweetener to balance the bitterness of the cocoa.
• Coconut Creamer: Substitute coconut milk for the evaporated milk for a dairy-free and vegan option. Be sure to use full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor and texture.
• Hazelnut Delight: Add 1 teaspoon of hazelnut extract for a nutty flavor. You can also add a tablespoon of hazelnut syrup.
• Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce into the creamer before serving for a decadent caramel latte.
• Maple Infusion: Replace the vanilla extract with maple syrup for a unique and comforting taste.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use skim milk or non-fat evaporated milk to make this creamer?
A: While you can, the resulting creamer will be much thinner and less rich. The full-fat milks are key to achieving that creamy texture.

Q: How long does this creamer last in the refrigerator?
A: It should last for about 5-7 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze this creamer?
A: Yes, you can freeze it in ice cube trays for individual use. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for longer storage (up to 2-3 months). Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Q: The creamer separated after being refrigerated. Is it still safe to use?
A: Yes, slight separation can occur due to the high sugar content. Simply shake or stir the creamer well before using.

Q: Can I use this creamer in other coffee drinks besides Cafe Cubano?
A: Absolutely! It’s delicious in lattes, cappuccinos, iced coffee, or any other coffee drink you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Now it’s your turn to experience the simple pleasure of a Cafe Cubano Latte made with your own homemade creamer. It’s a delightful way to elevate your daily coffee ritual and add a touch of sweetness and creaminess. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to find your perfect cup. Share your creations and feedback, and let’s celebrate the joy of a perfectly brewed coffee together. This creamer also pairs beautifully with a slice of rich chocolate cake or a warm, flaky pastry!