French Coffee Extract (Essence De Cafe)

This recipe will guide you through the process of making a delicious homemade coffee syrup using only a few simple ingredients. This rich and aromatic coffee syrup can be used to enhance various beverages and desserts. With its bold flavor and versatility, you’ll find it to be a delightful addition to your kitchen repertoire. Whether you want to add a burst of coffee goodness to your favorite drinks or experiment with it in baking, this coffee syrup will not disappoint.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated cane sugar
• 7 ounces (200 grams) water
• ¼ pound or 1⅞ cup (100 grams) instant coffee (Nescafe is recommended)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Dissolve the instant coffee in the water and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
2. In a separate saucepan, cook the granulated cane sugar until it reaches a very dark caramel color, resembling a deep amber hue.
3. Carefully add the hot coffee to the caramelized sugar. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble, spit, and sputter during this process. Protect your hands and fingers while doing this step.
4. Slowly pour the coffee into the caramelized sugar, stirring lightly to ensure any hard caramel bits dissolve completely.
5. Strain the mixture to remove any impurities or remaining caramel pieces and allow it to cool.
6. Once cooled, pour the coffee syrup into clean and sterilized bottles or jars.
7. Store the bottles in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and preserve the flavor.

TIPS:

• Use good quality instant coffee for the best flavor. Nescafe, as recommended in the recipe, is known for its smooth taste, but feel free to try other premium brands.
• When cooking the sugar to make caramel, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. The darker the caramel, the richer the flavor of the syrup will be, but be cautious not to overdo it, as it can turn bitter if it’s too dark.
• Safety is crucial when working with hot sugar and coffee. Be careful while adding the coffee to the caramel, as it may bubble and splatter. Consider wearing protective gloves and using a long-handled spoon for stirring.
• To store the coffee syrup properly, use clean and airtight bottles or jars. Ensure they are stored in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and extend shelf life.

VARIATION:

• Hazelnut Coffee Syrup: For hazelnut lovers, mix in a tablespoon of hazelnut liqueur or hazelnut extract. The resulting syrup will give your coffee a nutty aroma and elevate your hot chocolate or milkshakes to a whole new level.
• Coconut Coffee Syrup: Add a tropical touch by combining a few tablespoons of coconut milk or coconut cream with the coffee syrup. The coconut flavor pairs wonderfully with iced coffee and tropical-inspired beverages.
• Irish Cream Coffee Syrup: Emulate the richness of Irish cream by incorporating a splash of Irish cream liqueur into the coffee syrup. This version is a delightful addition to after-dinner drinks and dessert recipes.

Now, you have a delightful coffee syrup ready to be drizzled over your favorite desserts, mixed into beverages, or used creatively in various culinary creations. Enjoy the rich and aromatic taste of this homemade coffee syrup!