By Allcoffee Team, Miami FL | Last updated: May 2025 | Published: November 22, 2022

Café Cubano — also known as Cuban espresso — has been a cultural staple of Miami's Cuban community since the 1960s, when Cuban immigrants brought the tradition from Havana. Today, it remains one of the most beloved coffee rituals in South Florida, recognized by its signature golden foam layer called espumita. This guide walks you through making an authentic café cubano at home using Café La Carreta Premium Espresso Blend.

Essential Ingredients

Water
Café La Carreta Premium Espresso Blend
2–4 tablespoons of sugar

Equipment

3-cup moka pot
Measuring cup
2 espresso cups
Mixing spoon

Instructions

Add water to the moka pot. Fill the bottom chamber with enough water to reach the safety release valve.
Add coffee to the filter and fill to the top, then level it off with your finger.
Place the filter back into the bottom chamber and screw the top on firmly.
Place the sugar in the measuring cup.
Heat the moka pot over medium heat.
Allow the water to come to a boil. Steam pressure will push the water up through the coffee grounds into the top chamber.
Once the first few drops of coffee begin to brew, pour them into the sugar and mix vigorously to make the espumita. It should be thick and frothy.
Pour the remaining coffee brew into the measuring cup and mix, allowing the espumita to rise to the top.
Serve in your favorite tacita and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Cuban coffee different from regular espresso?

Cuban coffee is brewed the same way as espresso but is sweetened during the brewing process — not after. The first drops of espresso are mixed vigorously with sugar to create espumita, a thick golden foam that sits on top. This technique results in a sweeter, richer flavor than a standard espresso shot.

What coffee brand is best for Cuban espresso?

Traditional Cuban coffee is made with a dark, finely ground espresso blend. Café La Carreta is one of the most popular choices in Miami, made from a family recipe with specially selected beans roasted for a bold, authentic flavor. You can order it directly at allcoffee.com.

Can I make Cuban coffee without a moka pot?

A moka pot is the most authentic method, but you can use an espresso machine as a substitute. Avoid drip coffee makers — the brew is too weak to create proper espumita. The key is strong, concentrated coffee.

How much sugar do I use for Cuban coffee?

The traditional ratio is 2–4 tablespoons of sugar per 3-cup moka pot serving, adjusted to taste. The sugar goes into the measuring cup first — the first drops of espresso are poured over it and mixed to form the foam before adding the rest of the brew.