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If you're into bold espresso vibes and want something a bit more grownup for your dessert fix this lush coffee drizzle is about to be your new favorite Splash it on pancakes hot brownies crisp waffles or even to jazz up plain yogurt and treat yourself to something deliciously different
The first time I made this I needed something cooler than regular chocolate sauce Now it's the thing everyone asks for at my get-togethers The smell fills the house and seriously draws people to the kitchen
Irresistible Ingredients
- Pinch of salt: Boosts all the other flavors flaky or fine sea salt is perfect
- Vanilla extract: Softens any bitterness and gives cozy vibes Best with real vanilla for top notch aroma
- Cold water: Mixes with cornstarch so your sauce stays lump free Just make sure it’s cold
- Cornstarch: Makes the sauce pourable without lumps Sift it in if you like
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness for that smooth finish Go fancy and use European butter if you’re in the mood
- Brown sugar: Gives deep caramel flavor and keeps it nice and glossy Just a hint of molasses too
- Granulated sugar: For sweetness and to mellow out the coffee Use fine if you’ve got it so it melts in fast
- Strong brewed coffee or espresso: This sets the whole tone Pick a bold or dark roast for the biggest flavor
Easy How-To
- Serve or Store:
- Pour it on while it’s hot if that’s your thing or let it cool a bit then stash in a glass jar with a snug lid Refrigerate for up to a week
- Finish Up With Butter and Vanilla:
- Turn off the heat Add the butter salt and vanilla right away Keep stirring till the butter’s gone and your sauce is super shiny and smooth
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Keep it on the burner and keep stirring It thickens in just a few minutes You’ll know it’s there when it gives the spoon a glazy hug
- Mix In the Cornstarch:
- Stir cornstarch with cold water in a little bowl till it’s totally smooth Slowly whisk this into the simmering sauce—don’t stop whisking so you don’t get any lumps
- Simmer Away:
- Let the pot gently bubble on medium for about five to seven minutes This cooks it down a bit and makes the coffee flavor pop
- Combine Coffee and Sugars:
- Toss your brewed coffee with both sugars in a small saucepan Stir over medium heat till you don’t hear or see any sugar bits left
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Brown sugar totally wins me over It makes it glossier and much deeper in flavor I’ll never forget pouring it over pancakes with my kids practically doing a happy dance trying to nab a spoon before me
Keeping It Fresh
This sweet sauce is happy in your fridge for a whole week Just use an airtight jar or container If it gets too thick a little gentle heat and a splash of warm water brings it right back
Swaps and Tweaks
Try dark maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a twist If you need it dairy-free there’s great vegan butters out there No strong coffee on hand Use espresso powder mixed with piping hot water
Fun Ways To Serve
Spoon it over waffles French toast cake or even classic ice cream For grownups it’s killer with affogato or creamy puddings It also makes a sweet little gift in jars for your coffee loving pals
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Backstory and Traditions
People have been pouring coffee into sweet sauces forever It’s classic diner comfort food in the US and comes from old school southern trickery and Italian style desserts like affogato
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How strong should the coffee be?
Go for bold brewed coffee or use espresso. The more powerful your coffee, the richer your sauce will taste.
- → Can I use instant coffee?
Yep, just stir instant coffee into hot water until it's strong enough for you. Toss it in the pan when you're ready.
- → What desserts pair best with this sauce?
Ice cream, warm brownies, pancakes, waffles or cake all rock with this sauce. If you love chocolate or vanilla, this will be your jam.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Pop the sauce in a sealed jar in the fridge where it'll last a week. Warm it up in a saucepan or microwave and give it a quick stir so it's smooth again.
- → Can I make it dairy-free?
Just swap the butter for a vegan version. You'll still get that glossy, rich result without any milk.