Easter Hot Drinks.

At Cafe2U, we're best known for our barista-grade coffee but there are more strings to our bow than just serving excellent espressos and lovely lattes - we do a mean hot chocolate too!

With that in mind and Easter almost upon us again (hurray!!), now is the perfect time to share some of our favourite recipes for you to try at home. You can thank us later!

Hot chocolate royale

What's better than hot chocolate? Hot chocolate piled high with marshmallows, of course!

Ingredients

To make two mugs, you will need:

• 300ml milk

• 71ml double cream

• 50g chopped chocolate

• Mini marshmallows

All you need to do is pour the milk, double cream and chopped chocolate into a pan, then bring it gently to the boil, whisking until smooth. Serve immediately and top with mini marshmallows and a little grated chocolate.

Gingerbread hot chocolate

Gingerbread may be most commonly associated with autumn or winter but let's be honest, there's never a bad time to enjoy its sweet, slightly peppery taste!

Ingredients

To make two mugs, you will need:

• 300ml milk

• 100ml double cream

• 1 tsp dark brown soft sugar

• 1 orange, zested

• pinch of ground ginger

• pinch of ground cinnamon

• 2 cloves

• 4 drops of vanilla extract

• 100g dark chocolate, chopped

• whipped cream

• 2 mini gingerbread biscuits, crushed

Begin by stirring the milk, cream, sugar, orange zest and spices together in a saucepan, then bring to a simmer over a low heat. Remove from the heat and pour through a sieve into a jug, discarding the clove and orange zest. Pour the milk back into the pan and stir in the vanilla and chocolate until the chocolate has melted and is smooth, returning the pan to a low heat to warm through, if necessary.

Then, simply pour into a heatproof mug, top with whipped cream, add the crushed gingerbread biscuits and serve.

Vegan hot chocolate

Everyone deserves a chocolate-y treat from time to time so this recipe has been designed specifically for those with plant-based diets!

Ingredients

To make two mugs, you will need:

• 500ml oat milk

• 100g vegan dark chocolate, finely chopped, plus a grating to serve

• 1 small cinnamon stick

• 2 bruised cardamom pods

• ½ tbsp maple syrup

• vegan marshmallows

Heat all the ingredients - apart from the marshmallows - in a small pan over a low heat and stir frequently until the chocolate melts. Remove and discard the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods, then divide the hot chocolate between two mugs and top with the marshmallows and an extra grating of chocolate.

Mocha

If you fall into the 'coffee or nothing' category of hot drink lovers, fear not - there's plenty of choccy in this cheeky mocha recipe!

Ingredients

To make two mugs, you will need: 

• 36g ground espresso or 2 espresso pods

• 500ml milk

• 2 tsp drinking chocolate

Begin by making around 70ml espresso using a coffee machine and divide between your two mugs. Add 1 tsp drinking chocolate to each and mix well until smooth.

Next, steam the milk so that it has around 4-6cm of foam on top. Hold the jug so that the spout is about 3-4cm above a mug and pour the milk in steadily. As the volume within the mug increases, bring the jug as close to the surface of the drink as possible whilst aiming into the centre. Once the milk jug is almost touching the surface of the coffee, tilt to speed up the rate of pour. As you accelerate, the milk will hit the back of the cup and start naturally folding in on itself to create a pattern on top!

Happy Easter from Cafe2U!
We hope all our customers have a happy Easter and bank holiday weekend. There's bound to be plenty of chocolate to go around but if you run out of great coffee to enjoy with it, contact your local Cafe2U van here and we'll deliver some direct to your door!

Best Mother's Day Bakes!

Instead of buying your mum a present for Mother's Day this year, why not get creative and make her something instead?

Most mums love a sweet bite with their coffee so baking her a sugary treat is exactly the kind of surprise that's sure to be well received on Sunday. We've chosen a few of our favourite recipes to share with you, all of which are guaranteed mum-pleasers. And best of all you can either bake them ahead of time or share some quality time with your mum by baking them together!

Lemon layer cake.

A fancy take on a classic, this bake just screams 'Mother's Day'!

Ingredients.

To make a lemon layer cake, you will need:

• 225g unsalted butter, softened

• 225g caster sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 225g self-raising flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 75g natural yogurt

• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract

• 3 lemons, zested

For the drizzle - 

• 150g granulated sugar

• 3 lemons, zest of 2 pared into strips, juiced

For the icing - 

• 150g unsalted butter, softened

• 150g icing sugar, sieved

• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract

• 300g full-fat soft cheese

Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4 and line the base of two 20cm sandwich tins with baking parchment. Beat the butter and sugar together for 3 mins until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well between each addition, then fold in the flour and baking powder until well incorporated, then the yogurt, vanilla and lemon zest. Divide between the tins and bake for 30-35 mins until golden.

Next, make the drizzle by tipping the sugar, lemon juice and 100ml water into a small pan set over a medium heat and stir until dissolved. Add the lemon zest, bring to the boil and simmer for 2-3 mins until the liquid is syrupy. Remove the zest to a sheet of baking parchment using a slotted spoon, then remove the syrup from the heat.

Once the sponges have cooled in the tins for at least 10 mins, pour over the warm drizzle and leave to cool.

For the icing, beat the butter and icing sugar together for 4-5 mins until smooth. Add the vanilla and soft cheese and beat for 4 mins more until thick and creamy.

Remove the cooled sponges from the tins. Spoon the icing into a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle and pipe just under half the icing around the edge of one of the sponges, using a circular motion for a wavy effect. Pipe a little more icing over the empty middle and smooth with the back of a spoon. Chill for one hour until set. Top with the second sponge, then pipe eight blobs of icing around the edge at regular intervals, leaving a gap between each. Spoon the candied lemon zest into each gap, then serve.

Raspberry ripple blondies.

Your mum will love this combo of fresh, juicy raspberries and two types of irresistible chocolate!

Ingredients.

To make 12 blondies, you will need:

• 150g raspberries

• 200g light brown soft sugar

• 225g unsalted butter, plus a little extra for the tin

• 100g caster sugar

• 200g plain flour

• ½ tsp baking powder

• 3 eggs

• 1tsp vanilla extract

• 125g dark chocolate, chopped into chunks

• 125g white chocolate, chopped into chunks

Place all but a handful of raspberries into a saucepan, along with 1 tsp brown sugar and 2 tsp water. Cook over a medium heat until the raspberries turn jammy. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool.

Next, melt the butter in a pan over a low-medium heat. Tip in both the sugars and cook until the mixture is bubbling and the sugars have dissolved. Remove from the heat and leave to cool for 10 mins.

Meanwhile, combine the flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Butter a 20 x 30cm tin and line with baking paper. Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, add the eggs and vanilla, then mix well. Scatter over the dark and white chocolate chunks and fold to combine. Scrape the mixture into the prepared tin and level the surface. Dot over teaspoonfuls of the raspberry compote, then use a skewer to gently swirl it through the batter to create a marbled effect. Scatter over the reserved raspberries, then bake for 40-45 mins until set with a slightly gooey centre. Leave to cool completely in the tin, then cut into squares to serve.

Happy Mother's Day from Cafe2U!

At Cafe2U, we believe that one of the best ways of showing your love is through food and drink, and these Mother's Day bakes are sure to make your mum feel loved and appreciated, especially if you pair them with one of our top quality coffees!

Our vans will be on the road as usual over the weekend so get in touch here if you'd like some coffee delivering to your mum's door!

Should I Invest In A Franchise?

According to the most recent survey by the British Franchise Association, a staggering 99.5% of franchises are successful (in comparison to just 50% of new start-up businesses), with 89% of all franchise units turning a profit, enabling the franchising industry to contribute more than £19 billion to the UK economy each year.

As a result, many people consider investing in a franchise - such as those offered by Cafe2U - when it's time for a career change.

But with so many factors to consider before taking the plunge, how can you be sure that becoming a franchisee is the right decision for you? 

We've compiled the top five questions that every would-be franchisee should ask themselves.

Can you afford it?

Whatever type of franchise you find most appealing, investing in it will require you to find enough money to cover both start-up and ongoing costs, with a Cafe2U franchise available for as low as £15,000.

Before you begin trading, you'll need to pay an up-front franchise fee to the franchisor for the right to use its brand name, logo and business plan. It also usually covers training, support and marketing.

An ongoing fee will almost certainly be payable too, such as a management or royalty fee to continue trading under the franchisor's brand. This will either be a fixed monthly fee or a percentage of your profits. You may also be expected to make regular contributions for ongoing promotion and marketing activity and, if you're required to sell the franchisor's products, you will also need to buy inventory.

Depending on the nature of the franchise, you may also need enough working capital to pay suppliers, staff, rent, insurance and utilities - as well as your own cost of living - in the interim before your business becomes profitable.

Are you passionate about your chosen franchise?

If you're not 100% interested in the industry in which your chosen franchise specialises, walk away. Not only will your customers and clients quickly pick up on your lack of enthusiasm, resulting in reputational damage to your business, but you're also more likely to lose interest in it in the long-term, which could conceivably cost you a significant amount of money.

Conversely, if you invest in a franchise you're truly interested in, your energy and passion for it will naturally come through, resulting in you offering a better product or service to your customers.

While the predicted earnings and the work/life balance being offered by your chosen franchise are important factors to take into account, if they're the only things that interest you about it, it's time to think again.

Have you done your due diligence?

The only way to ascertain your new business' chances of success is to get out in the area in which you want to operate and do some market research. Does the local community have the right demographics for your business? Is it crying out for whatever you have to offer? Or are there already too many businesses offering the same services in the area? 

At this stage, being thorough and patient is vital, so resist the temptation to sign on the dotted line until you can answer these questions and more. The more time you invest before you buy a franchise, the better your return on investment is likely to be.

Do you have the right skill set?

Familiarise yourself with what day-to-day life as a franchisee in your chosen field entails and make sure you're confident you have the personality, lifestyle and skills to make a success of it if you decide to take the plunge. 

Ask yourself questions like: 

• Can you deal with early starts and long days?

• Do you enjoy interacting with members of the public?

• Are you well organised?

• Can you handle any and all daily paperwork that may be involved?

• Will you be comfortable implementing the franchisor's procedures?

If you can honestly answer 'yes' to these sorts of questions, franchising could be a good fit for you. 

How will you spread the word about your new franchise?

In order to build interest, you'll need to advertise your new business before it launches, then continue to advertise it after it has launched, to ensure people know that you're there and what you have to offer.

Establishing a social media presence on Facebook and Instagram are advisable and you should also be prepared to put up posters, make and deliver flyers and advertise in local newspapers in order to promote your franchise too, especially if it isn't already a household name.

Cafe2U franchises are available.

Not only are they available, they're one of the best franchise options for 2025! In addition to a top-of-the-range electric van and an exclusive area in which to operate, all our new franchisees receive all the training and equipment necessary to get their businesses off the ground. We also supply them with all the ongoing support and marketing advice they need too.

If you're interested in investing in a Cafe2U franchise, we can even assist in arranging finance for you. For more information, click here.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a Delicious Irish Coffee.

March 17th marks St. Patrick’s Day, a global celebration of Irish culture and heritage in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick.

Born in Britain, Patrick was kidnapped by Irish raiders as a teenager and forced into servitude as a shepherd. It was during this time that he found faith. According to legend, God guided him to escape, leading him to a waiting ship that took him home. Years later, he returned to Ireland as a missionary, converting thousands to Christianity and shaping the country’s religious landscape for centuries to come.

Though he passed away on March 17th, 461 A.D., his legacy endured, and by the 17th century, the date was officially recognized as a Christian feast day. Today, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated worldwide - more than any other national festival - featuring parades, traditional Irish music, the wearing of green, and, of course, a toast with Irish beer, cider, or whiskey.

That brings us to one of Ireland’s most beloved whiskey-based creations: Irish coffee!

The Story Behind Irish Coffee.

Legend has it that Irish coffee was first crafted in the winter of 1943 by Joe Sheridan, a chef at Foynes Port near Limerick. At the time, Foynes was a key refueling stop for transatlantic flights. One evening, a group of passengers returned unexpectedly after their flight was turned back due to bad weather. Wanting to warm them up, Sheridan prepared a special drink - rich coffee, smooth Irish whiskey and a layer of silky cream. When asked if it was Brazilian coffee, he replied, "No, it’s Irish coffee." 

The rest is history!

Today, Irish coffee remains a favorite, especially as a comforting after-dinner drink or a festive treat on St. Patrick’s Day. 

How to Make the Perfect Irish Coffee.

They say that on St. Patrick’s Day, everyone is Irish - so why not give this classic recipe a try?

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp double cream

• 150ml freshly brewed black coffee

• 50ml Irish whiskey

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

• Mint syrup (optional)

Begin by lightly whipping the cream until it begins to thicken, then set aside. Next, pour the hot coffee into a mug, then stir in the whiskey and sugar until dissolved.

Float the cream on top by slowly pouring it over the back of a spoon just above the coffee’s surface. Gradually lift the spoon as you pour to create a smooth layer. Sprinkle with nutmeg and serve immediately. 

For a festive twist, add a dash of mint syrup for a hint of green!

Sláinte!

This St. Patrick’s Day, our mobile baristas will be on the road as usual! If you need a fresh coffee delivery to make your perfect Irish coffee, reach out to your nearest Café2U van here - we’ll take care of the rest.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! 🍀☕

UK Compost Week 2025.

March 10th-16th is officially UK Compost Week 2025, an annual initiative designed to raise awareness of the environmental benefits of composting, such as reducing the amount of waste that is sent to landfill, and encourage people to get out in their gardens and give composting a go for themselves.

As a company that is proud of its sustainable credentials, we're big fans of anything that helps create a healthier natural environment and UK Compost Week does exactly that by helping to educate the public on the importance of composting organic materials to create healthier soils and reduce landfill waste.

But what exactly does the coffee industry have to do with composting and how can you get involved in this important event? Let's take a look!

Coffee and Compost.

Did you know that you can compost and recycle coffee grounds?!

Normally, used coffee grounds are thrown in the bin, where they end up as landfill or in an incinerator, but you can give your latte a second life by using used coffee grounds to help composting. By adding some used grounds to your compost heap, you'll improve its structure and attract worms, which speed up the process by turning food scraps into compost.

Other environmentally-friendly uses for old grounds include using them to:

• repel insects. Simply put the used grounds in a bowl outside and burn them like incense. The grounds are very potent and will drive pests away in no time.

• make fertiliser. Sprinkling used grounds - which are packed with key nutrients - on the soil surrounding your plants will encourage them to grow quicker.

• eliminate smells. A handful of used coffee grounds in your fridge will absorb food odours and ensure your meals taste like they should.

• clean your pans. A couple of spoonfuls of used coffee grounds are abrasive enough to clean the dirtiest of pans - just apply the grounds to a cloth and get scrubbing! Remember to check a small area of the pan first to make sure the grounds don't stain the surface though.

At Cafe2U, we periodically let customers take our used grounds away for free and we also offer an innovative coffee grounds recycling initiative which sees waste coffee grounds being recycled into biofuel pellets to power biomass boilers, significantly reducing our greenhouse gas emissions.

We also offer compostable cups which can be composted or recycled, reducing waste and ensuring fewer items are sent to landfill!

Do your bit this Compost Week.

While all these ideas are good news for the environment, they will only be successful if people adopt them, so why not support the nation's composting efforts by picking up a compostable cup next time you visit your local Cafe2U van and, if you could use some, take some of our used grounds away with you. You'll be helping us help the planet!

Find your nearest Cafe2U van here.

Winter Warmers: Cosy Coffee Creations To Beat the Chill.

Spring may be just around the corner but there are still a few more weeks of winter to navigate first.

If you're counting the minutes until the days start getting warmer and the nights start getting shorter, we've got a few hot drink recipes for you to try at home that will make the last knockings of winter just that little bit more manageable. Enjoy!

Pumpkin spice latte.

Pumpkin spice lattes are one of the UK's favourite seasonal hot drinks so what better time to enjoy one?!

Ingredients.

To make pumpkin spice lattes, you will need:

• 750g pumpkin

• ground cinnamon

• ground ginger

• ground nutmeg

• 30ml espresso or strong coffee

• 250ml milk (any variety)

To begin, you will need to make some pumpkin puree. Peel and seed your pumpkin, then cut into evenly sized cubes. Place the cubes in a steamer or colander over a pan of simmering water for 10-15 minutes or until soft, then mash and leave to cool.

Once cool, put two teaspoons of puree into a large heatproof glass or mug and stir in the spices and coffee. Next, heat the milk in a saucepan over a low heat until steaming and frothy. Pour into the glass or mug and spoon over the froth. Stir to combine, dust with more cinnamon and voila - the perfect warming, aromatic drink to enjoy on a cold winter evening!

Peppermint mocha.

Peppermint and coffee bring out the flavours in each other for a warming treat that's the perfect antidote to chilly temperatures.

Ingredients.

To make two peppermint mochas, you will need:

• 190ml milk

• 3 tablespoons sugar

• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

• 190ml espresso

• ½ tsp mint extract (or ½ peppermint candy cane)

• ¼ tsp vanilla extract

• Whipped cream

• Pinch of chocolate shavings

Add the milk, cocoa and sugar to a small saucepan on medium heat and warm until the sugar dissolves completely, stirring occasionally. While the milk is heating, brew the espresso.

Pour the espresso and milk mixture into large mugs and top with whipped cream, then sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
Gingerbread latte.

Sweet, cosy and creamy, gingerbread lattes are the ultimate winter comfort drink.

Ingredients.

To make two gingerbread lattes, you will need:

• 1½ tsp ground ginger, plus extra to serve

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, plus extra to serve

• 2 tbsp soft brown sugar

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 600ml whole milk

• 2 shots hot espresso 

• whipped cream, to serve

In a bowl, mix together the spices, sugar and vanilla extract, then heat 100ml of the milk in a pan and add the spice and sugar mix. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved, then whisk in the remaining milk in additions until incorporated. Heat through until steaming.

Put a shot of espresso in each glass and top up with the spiced milk. Top with whipped cream and the extra spices.

Let Cafe2U help keep you warm this winter!

If you need some top quality coffee to keep your spirits warm over the next few weeks, our mobile vans will be on the road, fully loaded with some of the finest coffees around. To have some delivered to your door, find out where your nearest van is using our interactive map here!

Valentine's Day Gifts For Coffee Lovers!

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and what better way to express your love for your coffee-loving partner than with a thoughtful coffee-themed gift?

Whether they're a connoisseur of cappuccinos or a fan of flavoured lattes, we've curated a list of the best coffee-related Valentine's Day gifts that are sure to brew up some love!

Personalised coffee mug.

Start their day with a smile by gifting them a personalised coffee mug. You can customise it with a sweet message, their name or even a memorable date. Every sip they take will remind them of your love - as well as their love for coffee! 

Check out sites like Etsy for a variety of customizable options.

Coffee-infused chocolate.

Combine two beloved indulgences into one delightful gift by giving your partner some coffee-infused chocolate. Whether it's espresso-flavoured truffles or mocha chocolate bars, these treats are sure to satisfy their sweet tooth and their coffee cravings! 

There are plenty of options available online but this Friars Selection Box gets the nod from us for the sheer range of treats it contains!

French Press.

Elevate their coffee brewing experience with a high-quality French press. This classic brewing method will allow them to savour the full flavour and aroma of their favourite coffee beans. Depending on their interior design choices, you can safely opt for either a sleek stainless steel design or a traditional glass model.

French presses are easy to pick up online or in stores but we really like this stainless steel model from Kichly - it comes with a 3 level filtration system, offers good value for money and looks the business! 

Coffee Art Print.

Add a touch of caffeinated charm to their home decor with a coffee-themed art print. Whether it's a minimalist coffee cup illustration or a vibrant coffee shop scene, art prints are a stylish way to celebrate their love for coffee. 

We're big fans of this simple 'cafe' design but a quick Google search will yield literally thousands of results for you to choose between!

A prepaid Cafe2U card.

If your partner is a Cafe2U customer, why not pick up the tab for their next few visits with one of our gift cards? When you prepay for five, they'll get the sixth completely free and it'll mocha their day!

Get in touch with your nearest Cafe2U barista here to find out more.

Happy Valentine's Day from Cafe2U!

This Valentine's Day, show your partner how much you care with a coffee-related gift that speaks to their passion for all things caffeinated. Cheers to love and great coffee!

Veganuary 2025.

Veganuary - the annual challenge to promote veganism and its benefits by encouraging people to follow a vegan lifestyle throughout January - is back in full swing and it's made us think: which vegan recipes go best with coffee?

If you're a coffee-lover who is taking part in Veganuary 2025, this weekend is the perfect opportunity to get your apron on and experiment with some tasty vegan recipes. So where should you start?

Let's find out!

Chocolate vegan biscuits.

This rich, indulgent recipe does exactly what it says on the tin!

Ingredients.

To make 12-16 chocolate vegan biscuits, you will need:

• 150g vegan margarine

• 75g golden caster sugar

• 225g plain flour, plus extra for dusting

• 100g vegan chocolate chips

• 100g icing sugar, sifted

• 1 tbsp citrus juice, plus 1 tsp

Begin by using an electric whisk to cream together the vegan margarine and sugar for 2 minutes. Mix in the flour along with 1 tbsp water and the chocolate chips, then bring together into a disc using your hands. Cover and put in the fridge to chill for 30 mins. 

Next, line a large baking sheet with baking parchment and heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour, then roll out the biscuits to around 1cm thick and use a cutter to stamp out 12-16 biscuits. Arrange on the lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 mins until golden. Leave on the baking sheet until cool to touch, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the icing, mix together the icing sugar and 1 tbsp and 1 tsp of citrus juice. Drizzle over the cooled biscuits and leave to set.

Vegan courgette cake.

Perfect for a coffee morning, this tangy delight is guaranteed to brighten your day!

Ingredients.

To make vegan courgette cake, you will need: 

• 80g vegan butter block, softened, plus extra for the tin

• 175g golden caster sugar

• 2 lemons, zested, 1 juiced

• 100ml oat milk

• 100g ground almonds

• 175g self-raising flour

• ½ tsp baking powder

• 175g courgettes, coarsely grated

• 200g icing sugar

Heat your oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4, then butter and line a 900g loaf tin. Beat together the vegan butter block, sugar and lemon zest until combined. Add the plant milk and beat slowly to combine, then add the ground almonds, flour and baking powder, along with the grated courgette, and stir to combine. 

Next, spoon the batter into the prepared tin and level the top. Bake for 55-60 mins until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean, then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely in the tin.

To make the icing, sieve the icing sugar into a bowl and add 1 tbsp of the lemon juice and stir to combine. Add a little more lemon juice if needed, ½ tsp at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. 

Finally, remove the cake from the tin and drizzle over the icing, allowing it to drip down the sides. Leave to set for 20-30 mins, then cut into slices and serve.

Happy Veganuary from Cafe2U!

As big fans of vegan bakes, you won't be surprised to hear that Cafe2U also offers a range of vegan-friendly alternative milks. Contact your nearest van here to find out more! 

Become a Cafe2U Franchisee in 2025.

More than 25% of Brits are predicted to have made at least one new year's resolution for 2025, with 'gaining new skills and knowledge' and 'changing job' among the most popular choices.

If you're weighing up a career change this year, now is the perfect time to consider investing in a franchise like Cafe2U and taking advantage of all the benefits we offer all our franchisees. 

But what exactly are they?

Let's take a look!

Wellbeing on your terms.

Essentially, franchisees operate as entrepreneurs, with the autonomy to make decisions on work hours, locations and duration. This flexibility creates a career that aligns with your lifestyle, fostering a work-life balance often elusive in a 9-5 job while simultaneously improving your wellbeing.

And with plenty of people working from home these days, investing in a franchise that can adapt to different locations and settings - like Cafe2U - is a particularly good idea!

It's profitable.

The franchise industry is renowned for its profitability, making it an attractive choice for those seeking financial growth. Consistent performance directly translates to increased income, offering limitless earning potential for franchisees.

Swift start up.

Becoming a franchisee is a straightforward process that involves an interview, the drawing up and signing of a contract, buying into the franchise and then training for the new role, which may only take a matter of weeks. After that, you're up and running!

If you don't want to hang around, franchising is one of the best ways to get a new business off the ground as soon as possible.

Low-risk venture.

Did you know that approximately 97% of UK-based franchisees currently run in profit? (Or that just 38.5% of businesses that launched in the UK in 2016 were still operating five years later?)

This success can be attributed, in part, to the ability to tap into an existing customer base that is already familiar with the brand. With a built-in trust factor, franchisees can bypass the years typically spent establishing credibility, saving both time and money on extensive promotional efforts.

Comprehensive training and support.

Opting for a franchise means gaining access to thorough training from the franchisor before your business opens. Ongoing support from both the franchisor and fellow franchisees ensures a wealth of knowledge and assistance to navigate challenges, increasing the likelihood of long-term success.

Our customers aren't going anywhere!

Even with a significant proportion of the population currently having less disposable income, there are certain products and services that people just can't do without, and research shows that good coffee is one of them!

Traditionally, consumers would splash out on new clothes or gadgets to treat themselves when they got paid. As a result of the cost of living crisis, however, people are increasingly swapping more expensive treats like these for cheaper but equally rewarding alternatives, with top-quality coffee among their favourites.

Consequently, our sales have gone from strength to strength in recent years and this trend shows no sign of stopping.

Is a Cafe2U franchise right for you?

At Cafe2U, we have a network of circa 100 franchise partners, with new franchisees joining every month. If you're interested in developing your career by becoming the owner of a mobile coffee franchise and a qualified barista operating in your own exclusive area, you can find out more about our franchise opportunities here. 

Boozy Festive Coffee Recipes

Obviously we're a little biased but we think coffee is one of the most versatile drinks around. It's perfect first thing in the morning or during the day, great whether the weather's hot or cold and, most importantly at this time of year, it goes brilliantly with a host of other drinks and flavours. So when it comes to making a cheeky Christmas tipple, coffee is a must-have ingredient. 

We love a boozy coffee on special occasions so we've compiled some of our favourite recipes to share with you. Here's how to make them:

Orange mocha.

Bucks fizz has long been a Christmas staple in the UK and the perfect way to get into the party mood. But if you fancy a drink with a kick on Christmas morning, but don't particularly like champagne, this orange mocha is for you.

To make four boozy orange mochas, you will need:

• 4 cups of espresso coffee

• one tin of sweetened condensed milk (standard 397g size)

• ¼ cup cocoa powder

• 2 oranges peels 

• 1 ¼ cups of chocolate vodka

Start by combining the coffee and condensed milk in a saucepan over a low heat, then slowly whisk in the cocoa powder, stirring continuously. Add the orange peels and leave to steep for five minutes.

Next, simply remove the pan from the heat, stir in the chocolate vodka, take out the orange peels and serve. If you're feeling particularly indulgent, adding some fresh whipped cream won't hurt either!

Gingerbread latte.

Along with pumpkin spice, gingerbread flavour lattes have become one of the UK's most popular Christmas drinks. But what you won't find on offer in your average high street coffee shop are gingerbread lattes with added coffee liqueur!

To make a gingerbread latte, you will need:

• 30ml strong espresso coffee

• 40ml gingerbread syrup

• 180ml full fat milk

• 20ml coffee liqueur

• whipped cream

• ground cinnamon

Begin by heating the milk to scalding, then stir in the gingerbread syrup. Next, pour the coffee liqueur into a mug and pour the coffee over the top, then add the gingerbread milk. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkling of cinnamon to serve. Best enjoyed from a sofa when it's cold outside.

Peppermint mocha.

When it comes to Christmas, few things are as evocative as peppermint candy canes, so it's no surprise that peppermint mochas are the perfect accompaniment to an evening spent wrapping presents or watching a Christmas movie.

To make a super simple peppermint mocha, you will need:

• one cup of espresso coffee

• 15ml creme de menthe

• 15ml chocolate liqueur

• 2 tbsp double cream

• whipped cream

• one peppermint candy cane 

First, smash the candy cane by wrapping it in a tea towel and giving it a couple of whacks with a rolling pin. Next, add the creme de menthe and chocolate liqueur to the coffee, stir to combine, then add the double cream. Garnish with the whipped cream and a handful of the crushed candy cane pieces.

Irish coffee.

The classic! Everybody and their nan loves this combination of coffee and Irish cream liqueur once Christmas rolls around - it's the perfect way to finish a meal. Here's how to take your's to the next level.

To make one Irish coffee, you will need:

• 2 tbsp double cream

• 150ml freshly brewed black coffee

• 50ml Irish whiskey

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• freshly grated nutmeg

Start by lightly whipping the cream until it begins to thicken, then set aside. Next, pour the hot coffee into a mug, then add the Irish whiskey and sugar and stir until the sugar dissolves. Gently layer the cream on top, add a sprinkling of nutmeg to serve and prepare to feel smug when everyone compliments you on how good it is!

Christmas at Cafe2U.

Of course, alcohol isn't for everyone. If you'd rather settle in with a top quality coffee minus the booze, our mobile vans will be on the road throughout the festive period and our trained baristas have some of the finest coffees around. To have some delivered to your door today, find out where your nearest van is using our interactive map here.

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts for Coffee Lovers!

As the festive season approaches and the excitement builds, so too do many people's anxiety levels as they begin to worry about having to do a last-minute dash to find the perfect gift for a loved one.

Well fear not, dear readers, for Cafe2U is here to save the day with a guide to some delightful last-minute Christmas gift ideas that will bring joy to all this holiday season! Read on to find out more!

Coffee Lover's Delight.

For the coffee aficionado in your life, why not treat them to a selection of premium coffee beans, a Cafe2U Keep Cup, or a pre-paid gift card? All are available from your local Cafe2U barista - get in touch with them here!

Cosy Comforts.

A snug blanket or a set of luxuriously coffee-scented candles make wonderful gifts that provide warmth and relaxation during chilly winter days. This Onesnug hoodie blanket will surely be a winner - it's like giving a warm hug as a present!

Sweet Treats.

Indulge their sweet tooth with a delectable hamper filled with gourmet chocolates, biscuits or festive treats. Perfect for enjoying with a cup of top-quality coffee this Christmas!

Gift of Green.

A potted plant or a beautiful bouquet will add a touch of nature to your loved ones' private space, delivering a hint of freshness and engendering a tranquil environment for them to relax in while they enjoy a coffee.

It's also a gift that keeps giving long after the holiday season, and this grow-your-own Bonsai Tree from Amazon means they can enjoy your gift all year round!

Spa at Home. 

Treat your loved ones to a pampering experience with a luxurious spa set that includes bath oils, scented soaps and cosy bathrobes. After all the hustle and bustle of the season, a little self-care could be just what they need!

Remember, the thought and care that goes into the gift truly matters. Whether a small token of appreciation or a grand gesture, the most important thing is to show your love and gratitude to those around you. 

So, grab a cup of Cafe2U's finest brew, let the festive spirit fill your heart and start spreading joy with these thoughtful last-minute Christmas gift ideas. 

Cheers to a merry and bright holiday season! 🎄✨

Four Wonderful Gifts for Coffee Lovers This Black Friday!

As the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the crisp winter air, it’s that time of year again - Black Friday!

Now is the perfect time to find delightful gifts for fellow coffee lovers or treat yourself to a little caffeine-infused treat. We love a bargain at Cafe2U, which is why we have put together our top picks for the best gifts for coffee lovers this Black Friday!

Coffee Subscription Box.

Enjoy a new coffee experience each month with a subscription box that delivers a curated selection of premium roasts right to your door. A great gift for the coffee lover in your life, Rise is offering 10% off their coffee subscription boxes - just pick your brew, quantity and frequency, and keep an eye out for the postman.

Portable Espresso Maker.

For the coffee lover who is always on the go, a Portable Espresso Maker is a must-have. Whether travelling, camping, or commuting, the Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker is the perfect gift - and you can save up to 30% on all “on the go” products this Black Friday.

Coffee Grinder.

A high-quality coffee grinder is just what you need to elevate your coffee-drinking experience. Grind your beans to perfection, and unlock the full potential of flavour and aroma in every cup. Amazon has a fantastic selection of Black Friday coffee grinder deals, with the Krups Coffee Mill being a particular favourite!

Coffee Themed Apparel.

Let them wear their love for coffee proudly, with some stylish coffee-themed apparel - from cosy sweatshirts to quirky accessories, there are plenty of gifts to choose from, like the P&Co Slow Sundays Coffee Club collection.

So there you have it! This year, why not spread joy and warmth with these fantastic coffee gifts to celebrate the coffee lover in your life, or just treat yourself?

Cheers to the perfect cup of coffee!

Must-Have Christmas Gifts for Coffee Enthusiasts This Holiday Season.

Coffee lovers and brewing enthusiasts. With Christmas around the corner, you may be looking for gifts for your loved ones. At Cafe2U, we aim to make your holiday shopping experience as stress-free as possible. To help, we have compiled a list of Christmas gifts for coffee lovers designed to bring joy to the coffee lover in your life.

Here are a few ideas for Christmas gifts for coffee lovers:

A Coffee Sampler Set.

Get their taste buds tingling with a Christmas coffee sampler set featuring a variety of interesting coffee blends that they may not buy for themselves. This Pact Christmas Coffee Selection is great value at only £19.95. They’ll receive four festively themed filter coffees, in a beautifully designed, giftable selection box - the perfect Christmas gift for an adventurous coffee drinker. 

A Personalised Mug.

Add a personal touch to their morning coffee with a personalised mug. Whether you add their name, a fun quote, a family photo, or a quirky design, this thoughtful gift will bring joy to every sip.

A Coffee-Themed Book.

For the coffee lover who likes to kick back with a good book whilst they enjoy their favourite brew, a coffee-themed book could be the perfect coffee gift idea this Christmas. Whether it’s a captivating coffee table book filled with stunning images or an insightful guide to the world of coffee - like The Curious Barista’s Guide to Coffee - this Christmas gift will enhance their appreciation of our beloved bean.

A Coffee-Making Kit.

Need a personal barista? A coffee-making kit could be the ticket to having your very own barista at home. From a high-quality French press to a sleek pour-over set, this Christmas gift will elevate their coffee brewing experience and allow them to create cafe-worthy coffee at home.

Coffee and Treats Hamper.

This Luxury Coffee Lover’s Hamper is filled with rich, coffee blends and coffee-inspired accompaniments and snacks. A coffee hamper is a unique coffee gift that your coffee-loving kin can savour throughout the festive season. 

So, let’s raise a cup of joe this Christmas and bring a smile to a coffee lover’s face. And if you are still searching for the perfect Christmas gift for a coffee lover, you can pick up pre-paid Cafe2U cards from your local Cafe2U coffee van!

Connect with us on our social channels and let us know what unique coffee gifts you’ll be giving, or hoping to receive this Christmas!

Why Are Hot Drinks So Good On Cold Days?

The cold weather may not have set in just yet but there’s no doubt that it’s on its way and, when it arrives, we’ll be reminding everyone that there's nothing quite as comforting as wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of your favourite hot drink when the temperatures plummet.

Whether it's an ever-reliable coffee, a classic cup of tea or a mug of rich, luxurious hot chocolate, hot beverages have a magical way of making us feel warm and toasty both inside and out. But what's the science behind this delightful sensation?

Let's take a look…

First and foremost, let's talk about the immediate impact of sipping a hot drink. When you take that first sip, the warmth of the liquid stimulates thermoreceptors in your mouth and throat. These receptors send signals to your brain, which interprets the sensation as an increase in body temperature. It's a quick and effective way to trick your body into feeling warmer almost instantly.

Now, as you continue to drink your hot beverage, the real magic happens. The warmth from the drink starts to spread throughout your body, raising your core temperature. This is particularly beneficial on a cold day when your body is working hard to maintain its internal heat against the chilly external conditions.

But there's more to it than just the immediate warming sensation. Hot drinks can also play a role in regulating your body temperature over time. When you consume a warm beverage, your body may respond by increasing blood flow to the skin. This increased circulation helps dissipate heat, balancing your internal temperature with the external environment.

Interestingly, the act of holding a warm mug can also contribute to the overall sense of warmth. The skin on your hands is rich in blood vessels and, when exposed to the heat from a hot drink, these blood vessels dilate. This not only enhances blood flow but also promotes relaxation, making you feel more comfortable in the cold.

Let's not forget the psychological aspect of hot drinks on cold days. The ritual of preparing and savouring a warm beverage can have a soothing effect on the mind. It's a moment of pause, a chance to escape the brisk chill outside and indulge in a little self-care. The psychological warmth derived from this ritual can have a tangible impact on your overall sense of well-being during the colder months too.

Beyond the immediate and physiological benefits, hot drinks also offer a range of flavours and aromas that can elevate your mood. The scent of a freshly brewed cup of coffee or the delicate notes of herbal tea can be invigorating, providing a sensory experience that goes beyond mere warmth.

In conclusion, the benefits of hot drinks on cold days extend beyond the physical warmth they provide. From the immediate sensation of heat to the physiological responses that help regulate body temperature and the psychological comfort derived from such a cosy ritual, hot beverages are a delightful and multifaceted way to combat the winter chill. 

So, the next time you find yourself shivering in the cold, contact your nearest Cafe2U van here, grab yourself a hot drink and let science and indulgence work together to keep you warm and content!

Pumpkin Spice Recipes!

If you're not among the people whose favourite season is autumn, this time of year still has plenty to offer, thanks to the incredible amount of tasty treats you can make from autumn's unofficial mascot, the humble pumpkin. We've picked out some of the best recipes for you to try at home!

Pumpkin spice latte.

The only place to start, pumpkin spice lattes are one of the UK's favourite seasonal hot drinks.

Ingredients.

To make pumpkin spice lattes, you will need:

• 750g pumpkin

• ground cinnamon

• ground ginger

• ground nutmeg

• 30ml espresso or strong coffee

• 250ml milk (any variety)

To begin, you will need to make some pumpkin puree. Peel and seed your pumpkin, then cut into evenly sized cubes. Place the cubes in a steamer or colander over a pan of simmering water for 10-15 minutes or until soft, then mash and leave to cool.

Once cool, put two teaspoons of puree into a large heatproof glass or mug and stir in the spices and coffee. Next, heat the milk in a saucepan over a low heat until steaming and frothy. Pour into the glass or mug and spoon over the froth. Stir to combine, dust with more cinnamon and voila - the perfect warming, aromatic drink to enjoy on a cold autumn evening!

Pumpkin spice cookies.

If you don't manage to lay your hands on a pumpkin this autumn, don't worry - this cookie recipe uses an easy-to-make spice mix instead of pumpkin. And you'd never know the difference!

Ingredients.

To make pumpkin spice cookies, you will need:

• 300g plain flour

• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tbsp cornflour

• 1-2 tsps pumpkin spice mix

• 115g unsalted butter

• 100g brown sugar

• 100g granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 200g white chocolate chunks or chips

• 100g orange M&Ms

To make the spice mix, you will need:

• 3 tbsps ground cinnamon

• 2 tsps ground ginger

• 2 tsps ground nutmeg

• 1.5 tsps all spice

• 1.5 tsps ground cloves

Preheat the oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas 4, line two large baking trays with parchment paper, then prepare the spice mix by adding the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, all spice and cloves to a bowl and whisk until even. Add the plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, salt and cornflour and whisk until combined.

Next, carefully melt the butter and add to a bowl, then add the sugars and whisk for two minutes. Add the vanilla and the egg and whisk again until combined. Add in the flour mixture, M&Ms and chocolate and beat well until the mixture resembles cookie dough.

Finally, using a cookie dough or batter scoop, scoop the dough out in even portions, roll them into balls, place on the baking trays and cook in the oven for 10-13 minutes. Once cooked, leave the cookies to cool for five minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely and serve.

Check out our new autumn drinks range.
We're big fans of autumn at Cafe2U, as it's the perfect opportunity to beat the cold with a steaming hot cup of coffee. And that's why we've launched a limited edition range of autumn drinks! To find out what your local Cafe2U van has to offer, get in touch with them here.

Celebrate International Coffee Day with Cafe2U!

It’s International Coffee Day, and what better way to celebrate than with a freshly brewed cup from Cafe2U? But first, let’s take a quick look at how this global celebration of coffee came to be and why we all love it so much!

The Origins of International Coffee Day

International Coffee Day was officially launched in 2015 by the International Coffee Organization (ICO). It’s celebrated on 1st October each year, recognising not only the joy coffee brings to millions but also the farmers, roasters and baristas who make it all possible. The day is also a chance to raise awareness of the need for fair trade and sustainable coffee practices around the world.

Coffee by the Numbers: How Much Do We Really Drink?

It’s no secret that coffee is one of the world’s favourite drinks - whether it’s that early-morning flat white, a lunchtime espresso or an afternoon cappuccino. Globally, we consume around 2 billion cups of coffee every single day and here in the UK, we’re drinking around 98 million cups daily - that’s a lot of caffeine!

Why We Love Coffee

Coffee doesn’t just taste great, it has some great benefits too. It’s been shown to help improve concentration, boost energy levels and it's packed with antioxidants that are good for your overall health. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s the perfect excuse for a break - whether you’re catching up with friends, getting through the workday or just need five minutes to yourself. 

Celebrate with Cafe2U

This International Coffee Day, why not enjoy a fresh cup of barista-quality coffee, delivered straight to you by Cafe2U? 

With our fleet of mobile coffee vans, we bring your favourite brew directly to your door - whether you're at work, at home or somewhere in between.

To get your coffee fix, simply find your nearest van and let us deliver the perfect cup to you!

How To Take Part In The World's Biggest Coffee Morning!

It’s nearly that time of year again when communities come together over coffee and cake to support an incredible cause - Macmillan Cancer Support’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning!

This beloved annual event helps raise essential funds to support people living with cancer and the official date for this year’s Coffee Morning is Friday, 27th September 2024, but don’t worry - you can host your event whenever it suits you​!

How to Take Part

Getting involved couldn’t be easier! Simply sign up on the Macmillan Coffee Morning website to receive your free fundraising kit. The kit includes everything you need to make your coffee morning a success - bunting, balloons, a collection box and more. 

Once you’ve signed up, it’s time to start planning your event. Whether it’s a gathering in your home, a community hall or even in your garden or driveway, the choice is yours. Stock up on coffee, tea, and baked goods (or whatever treats you fancy!) and invite your friends, family and neighbours to join you. Every donation counts and, after the event, all you have to do is send the money you’ve raised to Macmillan to help fund their vital services.

Why Take Part?

The funds raised by the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning help Macmillan Cancer Support provide care for people affected by cancer. This includes funding nurses, support lines, counselling and more​. With cancer touching so many lives, this event provides an easy yet powerful way for anyone to make a difference. Last year, Macmillan raised over £1.2 million from coffee mornings across the UK and the aim is to surpass that this year​.

How Cafe2U Can Help

If you’re hosting a Coffee Morning and want to make it extra special, why not let Cafe2U lend a hand?

Our mobile coffee vans can bring high-quality coffee right to your event, along with a range of other hot drinks and snacks. Our friendly baristas take the pressure off you, allowing you to focus on what matters most - raising money for Macmillan and spending quality time with your guests.

You can find your nearest Cafe2U van here.

So, whether you’re planning a big community bash or a small, cosy coffee break with friends, join the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning and make a real difference in the fight against cancer!

Happiness At Work Week 2024.

In the UK, working 40 hours per week is a common practice and with so much of our time being spent at work, it's important that we're happy while we're there.

For employers, this means doing everything they can to keep morale among their employees as high as possible, as having happy workers leads to more creativity and productivity in the workplace. With every worker having different wants and needs, however, this is easier said than done. 

Fortunately, September 23rd-27th is the International Week of Happiness at Work, a week-long event designed to spread happiness among employees the world over. So what are some of the most effective ways to improve morale among employees? We take a look.

Prioritise work-life balance.

Employees’ work-life balance plays a big role in their happiness at work. By allowing people greater balance and flexibility between their work commitments and their family and personal lives, they will be less stressed and much happier.

To improve the work-life balance of their employees, employers can:

• Offer flexible working options and allow workers to work remotely where appropriate.

• Encourage them to take breaks and disconnect.

• Conduct regular reviews of employees’ workloads to ensure they're not trying to do too much at once.

• Increase support options for parents.

Build a positive work environment.

Positive work environments constantly come up as one of the most desirable factors for workers so building a positive work environment that excites employees will make them happy to come to work and less likely to quit.

The keys to building a positive work environment are transparency and open dialogue as these ensure employees can discuss anything, preventing issues from being bottled up and negative feelings from thriving. They also stop employees from feeling the need to compete with each other and instead increase the likelihood of them encouraging and uplifting each other.

Another easy way to make the workplace a positive environment is to smile more! Smiling is a sign of positivity and one of the easiest ways to convey happiness and positive energy. And, of course, happiness is contagious, so smiling will make others happier too!

Reward hard work and celebrate successes.

Employees feel happy when they receive praise for their hard work and their efforts are recognised, so make time to reward noteworthy achievements by:

• Taking employees out for a meal or to take part in activities like bowling, either after work or during working hours.

• Encouraging managers to hand out positive feedback.

• Bringing treats into the office.

However, acknowledging an employee's hard work or achievement doesn't have to be a grand gesture. One of the simplest and most gratefully-received rewards is a simple 'thank you'. Saying 'thank you' can go a long way - something employers often forget.

Ultimately, recognising employees for their efforts plays a significant role in how employees perceive their workplace and how they feel about their work.

Get them some coffee!

As well as being scientifically proven to increase wellbeing, brighten your mood and make you feel happier, coffee also helps build work relationships by giving employees the perfect opportunity to interact with each other over a coffee break, creating a happier work environment in the process.

Coffee is also high in antioxidants which are good for your body and help reduce the risk of a host of ailments including cancer, strokes and diabetes.

Why not have great coffee delivered to your work?

Whatever you do during International Happiness at Work Week 2024, ensuring there is plenty of coffee to go around your employees and colleagues is an excellent way to kick things off. 

At Cafe2U, our mobile cafes are available to bring our top quality coffees to offices all over the UK and you can find your nearest one here.

Autumn Drink Recipes to Warm Your Day.

As the crisp autumn air rolls in, there’s nothing better than warming up with a delicious seasonal drink. 

At Cafe2U, we're getting ready to launch our autumn drink range, which promises to boast cosy flavours and heart - and hand! - warming results, with flavours like spiced cinnamon, caramel and pumpkin spice to the fore!

So whether you're after a Pumpkin Spice Latte or a decadent Maple Cinnamon Macchiato, here are some of our favourite autumn drinks and how to make them!

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso

• 200ml steamed milk

• 2 tbsp pumpkin spice syrup

• Whipped cream

• Cinnamon for garnish

Instructions:
Brew your espresso and stir in the pumpkin spice syrup. Add steamed milk and finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.

2. Caramel Apple Cider

Ingredients:

• 250ml fresh apple cider

• 2 tbsp caramel syrup

• Whipped cream

• Cinnamon stick

Instructions:
Heat the apple cider in a saucepan, stirring in the caramel syrup until combined. Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream, adding a cinnamon stick for an extra autumnal touch.

3. Spiced Mocha Latte

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder

• 200ml steamed milk

• Pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg

• Whipped cream

Instructions:
Mix cocoa powder with cinnamon and nutmeg in a mug, brew your espresso over the mixture, then stir in the steamed milk. Top with whipped cream for a delightful, spiced finish.

4. Chai Tea Latte

Ingredients:

• 150ml chai tea concentrate

• 150ml steamed milk

• Honey to taste

• Ground cinnamon for garnish

Instructions:
Heat the chai tea concentrate and milk together, sweeten with honey, and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a soothing drink.

5. Maple Cinnamon  Macchiato

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso

• 200ml steamed milk

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• Pinch of cinnamon

Instructions:
Brew the espresso and mix in the maple syrup. Add the steamed milk, then sprinkle cinnamon on top for a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Happy autumn from Cafe2U!

These autumn recipes will add warmth to your day, whether you’re enjoying them at home or grabbing a cup from your local Cafe2U van.

Each drink is designed to reflect the comforting flavours of the season, making it easy to embrace the cooler weather with a smile. Enjoy, and don’t forget to check out our mobile vans for more autumnal treats!

The Cafe2U Guide to Breakfast Bowls.

Popular wisdom has it that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and, with approximately 89% of the UK enjoying it every morning, it's clear that the old adage is still true.

What has changed is what we're eating. Thanks to the rise of cafes serving healthy, vibrant breakfasts inspired by Australia and New Zealand, 'breakfast bowls' have become one of the most popular breakfast options, both outside the home and in our own kitchens and especially during the summer months.

Bursting with colour, breakfast bowls allow you to start your day with superfoods (nutrient-rich foods that benefit your health and wellbeing) such as kale, fresh fruit, berries, granola and quinoa. The idea is to deliver a meal that is tasty, healthy and quick to make. 

With summer beginning to draw to an end, here are some of our favourites for you to try at home while the sun's still shining!

Gluten free peanut butter and fruit quinoa.

This delicious breakfast quinoa makes four servings of just 290 calories each that look amazing, taste even better and will keep you energised until lunchtime.

To make this recipe, you will need:

• 2 cups of water

• 1 cup of quinoa

• ¼ cup of apple juice

• 3 tablespoons reduced fat peanut butter

• 1 banana, chopped

• 1 small handful of strawberries or raspberries

• 4 teaspoons unsalted peanuts

Combine the quinoa and water in a saucepan, bring to the boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, then cook, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from the heat, then stir in the apple juice and peanut butter until combined. Stir in the banana.

Next, divide the mixture among four bowls and top with some of the strawberries/raspberries and peanuts. And enjoy!

Tropical Smoothie Bowl.

Bring some sunshine to your kitchen table with this sweet, tropical, vegan blend that's packed with vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe, you will need: 

• 1 small mango, cut into chunks

• 200g pineapple, cut into chunks

• 2 bananas

• 2 tbsp coconut yoghurt (not coconut-flavoured yoghurt)

• 150ml coconut drinking milk

• 2 passion fruits

• handful of blueberries

• 2 tbsp coconut flakes

• mint leaves

Put the mango, pineapple, bananas, yoghurt and coconut milk in a blender, then blitz until smooth. Pour into two bowls and top with the passion fruit, blueberries, coconut flakes and mint leaves just before serving.

Vanilla-almond chia breakfast bowl.

This bowl combines seeds, nuts, fruit and oats for a fibre-packed meal that will keep you fuller for longer.

To make this recipe, you will need: 

• 50g jumbo porridge oats

• 200ml unsweetened almond milk 

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp low-fat natural yoghurt

• 25g chia seeds

• 150g of blueberries

• 25g flaked almonds

• clear honey

Mix the oats, almond milk, vanilla extract, yoghurt and chia seeds in a bowl and set aside for 20 minutes or until the oats have softened. Stir through half the blueberries, divide the mixture between two bowls and top with the remaining berries, almonds and honey (to taste).

Partner your bowl with the right coffee.
Whichever breakfast bowl you decide to try, a cup of nutrient-packed coffee makes the perfect accompaniment and will help raise your energy levels further still. Find your favourite coffee at your nearest Cafe2U van here!