Coffee Milk is a beloved and iconic drink hailing from Rhode Island. Originating from the traditions of Italian immigrants, this delectable beverage combines strong and sweet coffee syrup with cold milk. After just one sip, you’ll understand why it has become the official state drink of Rhode Island.
This recipe from the Taste of Home Test Kitchen allows you to make your own coffee syrup, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Once you have the syrup ready, preparing a refreshing glass of Coffee Milk is a breeze. Simply mix cold milk with a few tablespoons of the coffee syrup, and you’ll have a delightful beverage ready to be enjoyed.
Let’s take a look at the ingredients and preparation steps for making Coffee Milk.
INGREDIENTS:
- ½ cup finely ground coffee
- 2 cups cold water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup cold 2% milk (per serving)
PREPARATION:
- Place the finely ground coffee in the filter basket of a drip coffeemaker. Add 2 cups of cold water to the water reservoir and brew according to the manufacturer’s directions.
- In a small saucepan, combine the brewed coffee and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until it is reduced by half, approximately 30 minutes.
- Remove the coffee syrup from the heat and transfer it to a small bowl or covered container. Refrigerate the syrup, covered, for 30 minutes or until cold. The coffee syrup can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 weeks.
- To prepare a serving of Coffee Milk, mix 1 cup of cold 2% milk with 2-4 tablespoons of the coffee syrup in a tall glass.
YIELD: 4 servings (1 cup syrup)
PREP TIME: 10 minutes COOK TIME: 35 minutes + chilling time
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Adjust the amount of coffee syrup according to your taste preferences. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if desired.
- For a richer and creamier version, you can substitute whole milk or even add a scoop of ice cream to create a Coffee Cabinet.
TIPS:
- Use high-quality ground coffee for the best flavor. Experiment with different varieties to find your preferred taste.
- If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, increase the amount of ground coffee used in the syrup.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the syrup by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.
Coffee Milk is a cherished beverage that has become the official drink of Rhode Island. This delightful concoction combines a sweet coffee syrup with cold milk, creating a flavorful and refreshing drink. With this recipe from the Taste of Home Test Kitchen, you can make your own coffee syrup, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
To prepare Coffee Milk, simply mix the cold milk with a few tablespoons of the coffee syrup. The result is a delightful and creamy beverage that captures the essence of Rhode Island’s coffee culture. The balance of strong and sweet flavors makes Coffee Milk a unique and satisfying treat.
Experiment with the amount of coffee syrup to achieve your desired taste. You can also customize your Coffee Milk by using different types of ground coffee. For a richer and creamier version, substitute whole milk or add a scoop of ice cream to create a Coffee Cabinet.
Whether you’re a resident of Rhode Island or simply seeking a new and delicious drink to enjoy, Coffee Milk is a must-try. Discover the delightful combination of flavors that has made this beverage a beloved tradition in Rhode Island for generations.




