Which Biscuits Go Best With Coffee?

Ben & Jerry's. Marks and Spencer. Burger and fries! Some things just go well together, bringing out the best qualities in the other and ensuring the results are greater than the sum of their parts.

Perhaps the best example of this is a hot beverage and a biscuit. When break time rolls around, is there anything more satisfying than pairing a fresh cup of coffee with a tasty biscuit? Of course not.

The question is, with so many to choose from, which biscuit goes best with a mug of coffee? To celebrate the imminent arrival of National Biscuit Day on May 29th, we've compiled a list of some of the top biscuits to enjoy with a steaming hot brew.

8. Ginger Nuts

Gingery, delicious and steadfast in the face of repeated dunking, ginger nuts are one of the UK's most beloved biscuits and rightly so. However, there's a reason ginger and coffee isn't a common combo. An acquired taste.

7. Party Rings

Yes, the colourful, crunchy biscuits that are still required by law to be served at every child's birthday party. Childish? Perhaps. Delicious with a cup of coffee, especially when the icing starts to melt? Absolutely. One for sweet-toothed coffee aficionados.

6. Rich Tea

One of the founding members of the Biscuit Premier League, Rich Tea biscuits live and die by their no-frills approach. They're a safe bet, nobody dislikes them and there's no question they go well with a coffee. Unfortunately, the game's moved on since the Rich Tea's heyday and modern fans expect something more exotic from their biscuit.

5. Maryland Cookies

If we're splitting hairs then, yes, technically this is a cookie and not a biscuit. But if it's a chocolatey treat you want with your coffee, these bad boys are hard to beat. Robust yet satisfyingly melty once dunked, these classic cookies have chunks in all the right places.

4. Biscotti

Like cookies, some purists may question biscotti's inclusion on this list. But if you can't get past the fact that they're a different shape to your common or garden biscuit, you're really missing a trick. Originating in Italy, these twice-baked, almond flavoured delights were born to be enjoyed with a fresh cup of good coffee.

3. Shortbread

Ah shortbread. Neither short nor bread-like, what these classic biscuits lack in a sensible name they more than make up for in deliciousness. Dense, sweet, buttery and among the driest biscuits on the market, eating shortbread without coffee simply isn't an option.

2. Dark Chocolate Digestives

Any variation on the classic digestive biscuit could easily have claimed second spot on this list however there's just something about the combination of rich, aromatic coffee and rich, slightly bitter dark chocolate that works so well together. Add in the crunch of the biscuit base and you've got yourself a contender for the biscuit-to-enjoy-with-a-coffee hall of fame.

1. Biscoff

When it comes to biscuits to enjoy with a coffee, nothing beats Biscoff. They're crunchy, they don't fall apart when dunked, they're small enough that you can eat several in a single sitting without feeling guilty and, most importantly, they're delicious. A combination of caramel and cinnamon - both excellent accompaniments to a cup of coffee on their own - Biscoff is biscuit royalty.

Whatever biscuit you prefer, be sure you match it with a quality coffee from Cafe2U. Find your nearest van here and make a booking.

Also, keep an eye on our social channels for our 'Best Biscuit To Have With Coffee' poll to help decide once and for all which biscuit is the best.

Spring Bakes and Cakes

Now is a great chance to dust off the apron and get creative in the kitchen with some delectable spring cakes. We have also included a list of our very own spring coffees that are now available at your nearest Cafe2U van. Dive into our list below! 

Lemon Drizzle Cake

A perfect cake for a perfect spring day, the lemon drizzle. Filled with lemony goodness, it’s vibrant and delicious - that’s why it’s one of the nation’s favourite sweet treats. 

Here’s the ingredients you will need: 

• 225g unsalted butter, softened

• 225g caster sugar

• 4 eggs

• 225g self-raising flour

• 1 lemon zest

For the drizzle topping 

• 1½ lemons, juiced

• 85g caster sugar

Nice and simple, this lemon drizzle will take around 1 hour to make, with 15 minutes prep and 45 minutes baking. You can find the full recipe at BBC Good Food.

Victoria Sponge Cake

Another quintessentially British cake, the Victoria Sponge is a perfect spring treat. This classic cake features layers of light sponge sandwiched together by velvety cream and juicy strawberries. This recipe should serve ten people - here’s what you’ll need to get started: 

• 175g (6oz) butter, softened

• 175g caster sugar

• 3 eggs

• 175g self-raising flour

• 250ml (8fl oz) double cream

• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste, or vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp icing sugar, plus extra for decoration

• 400g (13oz) strawberries

• 4 tbsp strawberry jam (optional)

This is a cake that won’t disappoint - find the full recipe on Tesco Real Food.

Apple and Cinnamon Cake

This apple cinnamon cake is perfect for anyone looking for a simple spring showstopper. Here’s what you’ll need to start making this delicious dessert:

• 6 apples peeled and chopped

• 1½ cups soft brown sugar

• 2 cups flour

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 2 eggs

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• ½ cup canola oil

• 1 tsp vanilla

This is a great recipe, and it’ll use up any leftover apples sitting in your fruit bowl - you can find the full recipe and method on Simply Delicious. 

Hot Cross Buns

A spring classic, we have found a wonderful recipe for Hot Cross Buns from Bake Off’s Paul Hollywood - here’s what you’ll need to get you started: 

For the buns

• 300ml full-fat milk , plus 2 tbsp more

• 50g butter

• 500g strong bread flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 75g caster sugar

• 1 tbsp sunflower oil

• 7g sachet fast-action or easy-blend yeast

• 1 egg , beaten

• 75g sultanas

• 50g mixed peel

• zest 1 orange

• 1 apple , peeled, cored and finely chopped

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the cross

• 75g plain flour , plus extra for dusting

• For the glaze

• 3 tbsp apricot jam

These decorated buns have lots of texture and flavour - that’s why there’s so many ingredients. You can find the full recipe on BBC Good Food. 

A Coffee to Complement

We have recently launched our Spring Drinks range, featuring Easter Egg Hot Chocolate, Mocharetto Mocha, and the Hot Cross Latte - the perfect drink to pair with your summer cakes and bakes. Find your nearest barista on our website.

Our Franchisees Serve up Record Sales, Despite the Pandemic

We’re delighted to say that we’ve seen both a boost in recruitment with 14 new franchise partners joining the business in the last year and now record sales for our franchisees, all despite the challenges faced during the pandemic.

When the first lockdown hit in March 2020 sales initially plummeted, however, our savvy entrepreneurs all over the country were able to keep their business ticking over by pivoting their business model to unlock new channels of trade.

Seeing their regular customers at office blocks disappear overnight, our mobile coffee van owners began servicing key workers through lockdown. This saw high demand from NHS sites, police, building sites and garages. Many of our franchisees also started branching out into supplying the demand for those having to work at home.

The success seen by our franchisees has also been due in part to a number of emerging trends with coffee and mobile catering across the pandemic:

• With at home workers now becoming ‘at home baristas’ consumers are demanding higher quality in all areas, from the grade of coffee beans to the craftsmanship of the overall drink.
  

• Home delivery has been a good business model, with customers valuing not just the coffee but the social interaction with their baristas.
  

• 2020 saw a surge of independent coffee roasters now offering retail coffee subscriptions through the post catering to the more demanding consumer.
  

• Sustainability remains a key focus, with consumers highlighting the importance of purchasing from responsible suppliers. Many have also become very conscious of supporting their local businesses and giving back to their local communities through the pandemic.

In addition to this, convenience has still proven to be a growing factor in coffee drinkers’ habits - a trend we had previously identified pre-pandemic.

As such, online ordering has been very popular and our franchisees have been able to smartly capitalise on this with the launch of the Cafe2U app. Launching this app was once something that some saw as risky in the initial lockdown uncertainty, but one which has ultimately paid off for us.

Our CEO, Martyn Ward, had this to say:

“The lasting legacy of the impact the coronavirus has had on the coffee-to-go industry will be positive for consumers and small coffee companies alike with superior quality and growing demand for convenience.”

This year we will continue to push our franchise recruitment and will aim to grow on the success of 2020 and make 2021 even better. Hopefully this will also set a positive example for others that businesses can still survive and flourish in these unprecedented times.

Things to Look Forward to After Lockdown

The government has now introduced a plan to get us out of lockdown, so we have decided to put together a list of all the coffee-related things you can enjoy each step of the way.

Outdoor Meetings and Sports - March 29th

If the return of schools goes smoothly, then we will be onto the next step of the roadmap of recovery. You can now plan to meet friends and family outdoors on March 29th - using the ‘rule of six’ or two households.

This step also includes the return of outdoor sports for adults and children. You can now participate in five-a-side football, jog with your friends, play golf and much more.

It’s important for sports to return for our physical and mental health - take a look at one of our previous blogs regarding coffee and exercise and how it can help to improve your fitness. We also recently listed out the health benefits that coffee can give you, both physically and mentally!

Retail to Open Back Up - April 12th

One of the first major steps is on 12th of April, which sees the return of retail and outdoor hospitality, with a few indoor facilities opening - we can all get our haircuts again! We can start planning to enjoy our lives a little bit more, with outdoor restaurants and pubs also taking bookings from the 12th.

Gyms will also be back open and ready for business - which is great news for fitness lovers. Make sure you grab a Cafe2U coffee before you head to the gym to maximize your workout - we are just a message away!

Indoor Activities to Return - May 17th

May 17th will see the return of indoor activities - we will be able to return to some of our favourite locations, like stadiums and restaurants.

You will be able to book indoor restaurants, visit the cinema and even see your favourite sports team live. Many of us will be returning to office life, so you’ll need to make sure you are fully caffeinated - check out our coffee benefits at work blog.

You will also be able to book one of our mobile coffee vans to bring you our award-winning menu of coffees and food to your workplace or event. Whether it’s an industrial estate, office block or a 10k run, our mobile cafés have got you covered.

No more Limits on Social Contact - June 21st

With hopefully no limits on social contact, large events, and nightclubs set to return on June 21st - the perfect time to enjoy a coffee wherever you like.

Cafe2U will be back in full capacity, serving our loyal customers across the United Kingdom - we can’t wait. We hope to see you all at a van this June enjoying a drink from our summer range.

Mother’s Day Coffee Gift Ideas

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to grab your coffee-loving mum a java-inspired gift. So we’ve put together a list of the best coffee gifts for this Mother’s Day, from reusable cups to your favourite Cafe2U coffee!

Their Very Own Ecoffee Cup

Grab a Cafe2U Ecoffee Cup for your coffee-loving, environmentally conscious mother from your local Cafe2U barista. Ecoffee’s mission is to encourage the use of reusable cups and we are proud to have teamed up with them to provide environmentally friendly alternatives to paper cups.

Espresso Martini Cocktail Kit

If you’re looking for something fun for the cocktail lover in your life, then this Espresso Martini kit from Not On The High Street is just what you need. It includes a recipe card with three cocktails, including the Espresso Martini, Cuppa Joe, and Toasted Almond.

Become your mum’s personal bartender this Mother’s Day and if you can’t be together, you can enjoy a cocktail or two over Zoom.

Ultimate Afternoon Tea Selection

Treat your mum to the ultimate afternoon tea with this wonderful hamper from Marks & Spencer - it comes with a few treats, cakes, ground coffee and a selection of tea. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon with your mum!

Coffees of the World Gift Set

This Whittards Coffee of the World Gift Set offers a selection of brews to fit any mood, and perfect for any coffee-loving mum. From the rich and chocolatey to the sweet and fruity there’s plenty of flavours and nations to explore.

Treat them to a Cafe2U Coffee

If you or your mum are regular Cafe2U visitors you can purchase the same delicious coffee you enjoy everyday as a gift to enjoy at home, or you could simply order their favourite coffee straight to their door using the Cafe2U app.

We have a huge selection of coffee, tea and hot chocolate available - take a look at the full menu here.

We are still on the Road

We hope you and your family have a wonderful Mother’s Day and get to spend time with your loved ones. Remember, we are still on the road, ready to serve our freshly-brewed, barista-made coffee and hot drinks all over the UK.

Coffee Pancakes Recipe

Shrove Tuesday is of course a time when we can indulge in some delicious pancakes, but we've found the perfect way to liven things up this year and incorporate coffee into your pancakes. More specifically with a fantastic new coffee pancakes recipe!

The Ingredients

We’ve found ​an excellent recipe from Aldi​ that serves up to ten people (or one VERY hungry person):

• 150g plain flour

• 120g greek yogurt

• 2 tsp of instant coffee 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp baking powder A pinch of salt

• 50ml milk

• 25ml vegetable oil 50g caster sugar

You will also need to have your equipment ready:

• Two mixing bowls

• A whisk

• A wooden spoon

• A teaspoon

• A frying pan

The Method

Put the flour, sugar, baking powder, coffee and salt in one bowl and begin whisking. Then put the yogurt, eggs, milk and oil together in another bowl and mix them together.

Make a well in the middle of the dry ingredients, add the yogurt mixture, and mix into a smooth batter.

Heat some oil in a frying pan and add 4 tablespoons of the batter. Smooth into a circle and cook for a minute on each side.

Now that you’ve made your first successful pancake you can transfer it to an oven to keep it warm while you cook the rest... or tuck in!

Cafe2U is Still on the Road!

We hope you have a great Shrove Tuesday, even if we are in lockdown.

And remember, we’re still on the road, ready to serve our freshly-brewed, barista-made coffee and hot drinks all over the UK.

Contact your local barista for socially distanced, COVID-19 safe coffee delivered to your door - find your nearest van ​here​.

Valentine’s Day Coffee Recipes

It’s Valentine's Day and here at Cafe2U we know that there’s nothing that says I love you more than a great cup of coffee. So we’ve created a list of special Valentine’s Day coffee recipes that will surely woo over your significant other - take a look below! 

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Mocha

In the true spirit of Valentine’s Day we have found a drink based on an iconic Valentine’s treat – chocolate covered strawberries syrup added to a wonderful mocha! Here’s what you’ll need to make this one, it relatively simple:

• 2 tbsp chocolate sauce

• 1 tbsp strawberry syrup

• 1 cup of milk

• 2 shots espresso, or 4 oz strong brewed coffee

Once you have gathered your ingredients, add 1 tbsp of strawberry syrup to your cup of milk. Stir to combine, then froth the milk. 

In a heat resistant glass, add in 2 tbsp of the chocolate, and brew 2 shots espresso or 4 oz strong brewed coffee over the chocolate sauce. 

Stir to mix any remaining unmelted chocolate sauce with the espresso. Add the milk and strawberry mixture, and then top this beauty with your strawberry milk froth.

Then you should be ready to enjoy your creation! Take a full look at the recipe here. 

Red Velvet Latte

This coffee drink is the perfect indulgent treat for the end of a romantic evening. One of the most tasty coffees here’s what you will need:

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 3oz semi-sweet chocolate chunks

• 1/4 tsp red food colouring

• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup fresh brewed coffee

Then all you have to do is combine your ingredients! Bring your milk and sugar to simmer on medium heat and stir in your sugar to dissolve it. 

Remove it then from the heat, then stir in chocolate until it has melted. 

Once your chocolate has melted in, add your food colouring, coffee and your vanilla extract - then you’re all set to serve it warm! 

Take a look at the full recipe from here. 

Caramel Coffee

Another ideal treat for those with a sweet tooth. This coffee is what it says on the tin, this gorgeous drink is the perfect post-Valentine dinner treat, combining two of our favourites: coffee and caramel. Here’s all you’ll need to get started:

• Milk

• Caramel Sauce 

• Brown Sugar

• Coffee

• Whipped Cream

Begin by brewing a cup of coffee, while the coffee is brewing, heat some milk, caramel sauce and a touch of brown sugar in a small saucepan on the hob, until it’s steaming.

Then all you have to do is combine the coffee and the warmed milk in mugs and top with whipped cream and more sauce. 

Find the full recipe here with links to places that can help as well. 

Black Forest Latte

Combining more sweet flavours, cherry and chocolate! This is a classic drink that you can now make at home. For those that have already tasted the strawberry chocolate fused mocha will love this one! 

Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• One double shot of espresso

• About 6 ounces of steamed milk

• 1oz Stirling Black Cherry syrup

• 1oz Stirling German Chocolate syrup

• Whipped cream

• Chocolate shavings (to garnish)

• Cherries

To make this you first must brew a double shot of espresso and steam your milk. Pour the brewed espresso into your glass. 

Add your ounce of Black Cherry syrup and then add the ounce of delicious chocolate syrup. 

Then all you need to do is add the steamed milk. 

Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings and cherries - to make it look fantastic! 

You can find the full recipe here. 

Let Cafe2U Treat You this Valentine’s Day

If you don’t fancy making any of these or don’t have the time, let Cafe2U treat you. We have great choices for coffees with our new menu. 

With vans up and down the country find the nearest one to you today and celebrate the day with Cafe2U!

5 Reasons to Become a Cafe2U Franchisee

Are you looking to start your own franchise business? Then Cafe2U is perfect for you - within 4-6 weeks you could be a qualified barista and mobile coffee franchise owner, serving your first customers in your own exclusive area. 

Want to know more? Below we have listed 5 reasons why a Cafe2U franchise is the business opportunity you have been waiting for:

1. It Attracts a Loyal Customer Base

People are drawn in by your Mercedes-Benz Cafe2U van and if they like you and your coffee, these same people will become regulars, requesting your services at business parks and other areas. In other words, where there’s demand for you, gaining a loyal customer base is easy.

2. It’s Unique

There are plenty of coffee shops, but not many of them sell their coffee on the road. Cafe2U provides the best equipment to get you out on the road serving barista-quality coffee - you’ll get a Mercedes-Benz Vito van, a commercial espresso machine and on-demand grinder. Plus, with our 4 to 6 week training program you will quickly become a qualified mobile barista. Find out more here. 

3. You can Upsell

Whilst coffee is a very important part of every Cafe2U franchise, it doesn’t have to be the only thing you focus on. Capitalise on your coffee sales and you can sell pastries, sandwiches, biscuits and snacks - people will gladly buy these upsell items to complement their coffee break. Cafe2U has potential to make money beyond coffee!

4. You’re given Support and Opportunities

Cafe2U organises and hosts regular national and regional meetings for our coffee van franchisees across the UK. These meetings provide the perfect opportunity to meet, network and swap tips and tricks with your fellow mobile coffee business owners. 

As well as this, on-going support is available and designed to suit franchisee needs at different times of the franchise journey - this covers everything from phone calls, visits and operational updates.

5. It’s Relaxed

You can create your own relaxed working environment, simply serving your loyal customers, and with the new Cafe2U app customers can pre-order their drinks before you arrive; so you can make them ahead of time, helping you serve customers in a more timely manner.

You can also keep in touch with your potential customers via social media pages that Cafe2U can help set up - keeping them informed of your whereabouts and if you’ll be serving in their area today. It also gives them the chance to give you feedback and inform Cafe2U about what a good of a job you’re doing!

Those are just five reasons why becoming a Cafe2u franchisee is perfect for you - take a look at our how to become a franchisee page today! 

How Coffee can Help Improve your Fitness

As we head into 2021, many will be wanting to burn off those Christmas calories. Well there’s no need for any pre-workout or supplements, coffee can do the trick! 

Below we’ve explained some of the ways that coffee can improve your fitness, physical performance and help you recover - using the science of course!

Be sure you take a look at our alternative milks blog as well, if you’re looking for a change in diet alongside your fitness goals.

What Exactly can Coffee do to the Body?

Coffee, when consumed before exercise, can cause fat cells to be used as an energy source as opposed to glycogen. Also, drinking highly concentrated caffeine in a short black coffee without the dilution of milk will increase your metabolism, which makes you burn more calories throughout the day.  

When Should you Drink Coffee before a Workout?

Not too long after you finish that cup, is what research has shown!

If you’re looking to begin your run or home workout when your caffeine boost is at its most powerful, you’re going to want to consume that caffeine goodness around 45 minutes before you start to exercise. 

The peak concentration of caffeine in the bloodstream occurs around 45 minutes after drinking. From that point forward, your body is burning through the caffeine, lessening its effects. So if you hit the weights you’re going to be experiencing the peak of your caffeine buzz before your body has had time to process that coffee.

Make sure that you don’t exceed your 400mg of caffeine allowance during the day though, so if you are having a coffee before make sure it’s in moderation.

It can Decrease muscle Pain

Post workout pain, known as DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), can be very painful for the following few days after a tough workout. 

In a study to be published in the issue of The Journal of Pain, a team of University of Georgia researchers finds that moderate doses of caffeine, roughly equivalent to two cups of coffee, cut post-workout muscle pain by up to 48 percent in a small sample of volunteers.

So next time you feel sore, get some Cafe2U coffee down you and you should be back on the mend and raring to go!

It can Help Your Performance

Caffeine can increase adrenaline levels and release fatty acids from your fat tissues. It also leads to significant improvements in physical performance.

As we previously mentioned in our health benefits of coffee blog, coffee has numerous positive effects from concentration, endurance and increasing metabolism and burning fat. 

This article from Very Well Fit summarises all the physical benefits from coffee into six solid points. 

How Cafe2U can Help

With our new 2021 drinks range, you can use us as your coffee hub - as you get back to full fitness! 

Speak to your local barista and they will be able to provide you with our full menu, they can also provide you with alternative milks if you’re looking to go dairy free this year. Let us know what changes you will be trying to make in 2021 and let us know your workout routines!

How to Make the Perfect Cup of Tea

A cup of tea is a British tradition, but how do you go about making the perfect cup?

Using our wealth of barista experience and expertise, we’ve put together our very own tips piece, as there are several important factors to consider when making tea! Read on to find out more.

The Water and Temperature

Water and temperature are important components - if you get these right you’ve made a promising start. For the best taste, make sure your water is fresh. Throw away any stale water and avoid re-boiling water - this is all necessary for a premium tasting tea.

It is recommended for black tea that your temperature should be between 90-98 degrees and for everything else you can find the best list of temperatures for the tea you want to make ​here​.

Length of the Brew

Many people only brew their tea for around a minute - however, this isn’t long enough according to many experts. It can take time for tea to unlock its flavour, so if you’re making black or herbal tea, brew for 4 to 5 minutes.

It may seem a long time, but it makes the tea taste a whole lot better. However, if you’re making a milder tea such as green, white, and yellow teas they’re better in milder water temperatures with shorter brewing times.

The Quality of the Cup or Mug

Porcelain is the ideal drinking cup. Avoid clay styled mugs - clay materials tend to taint the flavours of tea, especially if the clay isn’t well glazed. ​The Independent​ has listed the best 11 mugs for the office and at home - they have promised they are all tried and tested!

The ‘Milk’ Conundrum

Do you put your milk in before or after? This one is a personal choice. According to some, putting the milk in first can ruin the flavour and lower the temperature - but there are many people out there who beg to differ. So what we recommend here is that you do whatever you like!

How Cafe2U can Help

To make things easier you should put your trust in our baristas to deliver the perfect cup of tea. Our franchisees are still on the road and ready to serve socially distanced tea and coffee, so find your nearest van today and make a booking.

If you fancy yourself an expert though, let us know how you make your tea via our social channels - we especially want to know when you put in your milk!

The Health Benefits of Coffee

As we enter 2021 we have decided to list out some of the health benefits of coffee and all the ways you can change your coffee habits to give your wellbeing a boost. Find out below how coffee can be beneficial for the heart, increase your mental alertness and how our alternative milks can curb your sugar intake.

Good for the Heart

Recent studies have shown that drinking coffee is linked to a lower risk of heart failure, stroke and heart disease. This article in ​Time​ shows this to be a surprising benefit based on research from the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions.

However, you should always be careful with how much coffee you drink, as drinking too much can often lead to being shaky and jittery. This article from the​ British Heart Foundation informs you on how to find the right balance with your coffee and its caffeine content!

Increased Mental Alertness

If you’re looking to go into the New Year with more focus and routine, your morning coffee can help!

Caffeine blocks adenosine, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that makes you tired and less alert - meaning you are more on the ball after a coffee. Studies have shown depending on level of intake, ​caffeine can help to improve mental performance​, especially with your attention and concentration.

Improves Physical Performance

If you’re getting back to the gym then a coffee just before exercising can improve your form. Caffeine can increase adrenaline levels and also helps release fatty acids from your fat tissues. This article from ​Very Well Fit​ summarises all the physical benefits from coffee and how black coffee could be the ultimate pre-workout drink.

Contains Antioxidants

In short, coffee is loaded with antioxidants and beneficial nutrients that can improve your health. In fact, studies show that enjoying coffee is one of the largest sources of antioxidants in the human diet.

Some of the benefits have already been listed in this blog so far. ​Healthline​ has a full explanation of how antioxidants work, and includes benefits such as reducing risk of cancers, diabetes and disease.

Drink the Right Brew

It’s worth highlighting that although coffee is healthy in itself, you can easily turn it into something harmful - adding lots of sugar to your beverage is being a key way to do this.

However, if you’re looking to still enjoy your coffee sweet but want it to be healthier - then take a look at our alternatives such as ​honey, stevia and coconut sugar.

Cafe2U also has alternative sweeteners and milks, like almond, soya and oat milk. We personally recommend oat milk as the ultimate alternative, but you can find out more about our ​other milk options here​.

Let Cafe2U Help Even More

So get on the right track with a Cafe2U coffee and make these healthier for you with our alternative milks and sugar free syrups. Speak to your local barista and they will be able to provide you with the alternatives!

If you have any more coffee health benefits you’d like to share, make sure you leave a comment on our social channels.

Alternative Milks Explained

As we enter 2021, you may be look for ways to become healthier and some may even be taking part in Veganuary - the 31 day challenge of going vegan. So if you’re looking for a means of getting the best of both worlds, you may want to try switching to alternative milks.

But what exactly are alternative milks and which ones are the best for you? Let’s go through each option to help you decide which one you might want to try.

Oat Milk

One of the most popular alternative milks within the coffee community, with a delicious creamy taste! Made by blending water and oats, and then straining out the liquid it’s a fantastic and naturally sweet alternative as it is low in protein and contains no saturated fat - giving you your essential vitamins and minerals.

You can see all the listed out health benefits of this vegan friendly milk ​here​.

Soya Milk

Soya milk is made by soaking and grinding soy beans. The beans are typically soaked overnight, their skins are then removed before being blended with water and strained. The remaining liquid or ‘milk’ is then heated before being cooled and stored, after which it is ready to consume - becoming soya milk!

Soya milk is rich in fibre which has a considerable effect on the BMI and good cholesterol levels - perfect for those looking to burn off those Christmas pounds! It also makes for an excellent post-workout drink, if you’re also getting back to the gym as a New Year’s resolution.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk comes from the white flesh of mature brown coconuts. The texture is similar to skimmed milk, which can be a plus when it comes making lattes. We personally think it goes perfectly with a Cafe2U hot chocolate!

Coconut milk is highly rich in fibre and is perfect for those that are lactose intolerant - as it’s lactose-free! BBC Good Food has the perfect guide to all its nutritional information and included some recipes you can incorporate coconut milk into! Take a read ​here​.

Almond Milk

Lastly, almond milk is one of the most popular nut-based milk alternatives for coffee. Almond milk is made by blending almonds with water and then straining the mixture to remove the solids. You can also make it by adding water to almond butter.

It ticks all the boxes for being healthy, low in calories and is lactose and dairy free! Usually, extra nutrients such as calcium, riboflavin, vitamin E and vitamin D are added to it to boost its nutritional content.

Cafe2U is Here to Help

If you’re looking to make these health and diet changes this 2021 then Cafe2U is here to help you!

Our vans are stacked with alternative milks and wonderful coffees! Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian or just trying to make a change, our range is suitable for everyone!

Get in contact with your ​local barista​ today to find out more!

New Year Resolutions for Coffee Lovers

To celebrate the start of the New Year and to help you get January off to the best start, we’ve put together a list of coffee-specific New Year's resolutions that we think all coffee lovers should try in 2021.

Try Something Different

With our Winter Drinks range being reintroduced it’s the perfect opportunity to give a new drink a whirl.

We have brand new coffees and hot chocolates for you to try, so why not try a new one each week throughout the whole of January?!

If you can’t wait, here are a few of the drinks from the range, that are available now: The Festive Spiced Cappuccino, Millionaires Hot Chocolate, Salted Caramel Mocha. You can find the full list of drinks with your local barista!

Get into Latte Art

If you’ve started to make coffee at home over 2020, when Cafe2U hasn't been available, why not make the next step up and start getting creative? But make sure you check out our blog on 5 common mistakes people make when brewing at home. 

Making latte art can be difficult to master, especially if you do not own an espresso maker or anything that’ll make it easier. There’s a great tutorial on YouTube that will help beginners and people wanting to get creative in 2021. In addition, making fancy latte art will add a personalised flair to your coffees and impress your friends and family.

Treat Other People

There’s nothing better than sitting and having a coffee whilst chatting away to your friends - so why not treat your coffee bud to something special in 2021 with one of our prepaid gift cards? You can pay for five coffees and they’ll receive 6, or alternatively pay for 10 and they’ll receive 12. 

This can certainly be a treat as and when the pandemic restrictions are lifted or eased.

Start Enjoying your Coffee More

Most of the time you don’t get a chance to enjoy your morning coffee - you’re waking up last minute, rushing around to get ready for work, and by the time you get a second to sit down, your coffee is cold. So why not wake up a little earlier this year and really enjoy your first coffee of the day? 

Our Cafe2U vans operate up and down the country, and can be waiting outside your workplace or home every morning. Find your nearest Cafe2U van here. 

Make 2021 the Best Year

2021 is the year that everyone can make a fresh start, and hopefully put 2020 behind us. It’s the year of new opportunities, so why not start the year with Cafe2U? Apply to become a Cafe2U franchisee, and you could be your own boss in 4 to 6 weeks. Click here to join the UK’s global coffee market leader. 

Festive Recipes: Christmas Bakes that Everyone can Make

As we get even closer to Christmas, here at Cafe2U we’ve decided to compile a list of recipes of all the best festive bakes we can find.

Our list should get you right into the Christmas spirit, plus most of these come with a Cafe2U coffee twist!

Gingerbread Latte Cake

For all the latte lovers out there, this decadent cake serves up to sixteen people! This showstopper has many different flavours, spices and of course that wonderful hint of coffee!

It’s a cake that requires a lot of effort to make, so be prepared to spend around three hours preparing and baking! If you’re feeling really creative add some decorative edible Christmas trees on top to really impress your family and friends!

You can find the full ingredients and method from Sainsbury’s. We hope you enjoy making this wonderful cake!

Espresso Martini Cake

Another delight from Sainsbury’s, the Espresso Martini Cake - it’s the perfect grown up treat to enjoy over Christmas!

It’s a chocolate sponge cake that’s then drizzled with boozy coffee syrup then layered up with indulgent espresso icing at the top! It’s another big cake that can serve a lot of people. 

Take a look at the full list of ingredients and the seven steps it takes to make this spin on the alcohol beverage. 

Coffee Chocolate Christmas Cake

A coffee and chocolate twist on the classic Christmas cake, for all of you that would prefer a much more indulgent treat! If your family and guests fancy a change, we recommend that you prepare this cake the night before - so you can enjoy this gorgeous cake together on Christmas Day.

Take a look at the lists of ingredients and the method for making this delightful cake here. 

Mince Pies

This recipe from BBC Good Food, is ideal if you don’t want to put too much effort into making them but still want a delicious treat. It’s easy to get the kids involved and there’s also no rolling required!

Take a look at what ingredients you need and the six step method to make these pies here. 

Christmas Biscuits

Here’s another example where the kids can get involved in the prep and baking. What’s more, you can cut out a range of festive shapes from the spiced orange dough and get creative decorating them with pretty coloured icing.

Take a look at the full ingredients and cooking instructions for these great Christmas treats! 

Christmas with Cafe2U

We wanted to give you a little reminder that our Christmas drinks have returned - and one of our festive beverages could be the perfect accompaniment to this baking.

This means our Christmas Classics and Winter Warmers range is back ready for you to enjoy. There are drinks such as the Gingerbread Latte, the Festive Spiced Biscuit Cappuccino and an Irish Cream Mocha - plus many more! Be sure to ask your local barista to see the full menu.

Also, if you’re struggling with gift ideas this Christmas or fancy some last minute shopping, we have the perfect coffee gift guide. Take a look at our Christmas coffee gifts blog here and see our present suggestions that are perfectly designed for coffee lovers. 

Cafe2U’s Christmas 2020 Launch

Christmas is just around the corner, and here at Cafe2U we are certainly getting into the festive spirit - we’ve got loads of treats and surprises for all our Cafe2U customers in the upcoming weeks! 

First things first, our Christmas cups are back with a brand new design - the Cafe2U logo has been turned into a snowflake, alongside some cute Christmas messaging. Make sure you take a picture of you and your Cafe2U cup and send it in on our social media channels, we’d love to see them.

We also have our Christmas jumper day on the 11th December, so make sure you visit our baristas who will be sporting a fabulously festive Cafe2U jumper, whilst serving up your winter warmers and Christmas classics.

And now, the main event… we’re delighted to have launched our Christmas classics menu, which sees the return of some of your favourite drinks from previous years, and brand new winter warmers. You can see a selection in the image below:

Our Gingerbread Latte returns which sees your favourite Cafe2U latte blended with a classic Christmas gingerbread flavoured syrup. We will also be introducing some brand new winter warmers, including:

• The Salted Caramel Mocha

• The Irish Cream Mocha

• The Festive Spiced Biscuit Cappuccino

• The Cinnamon Bun Cappuccino

The new winter hot chocolate range will also be returning with a few favourites and some exciting new flavours. The hot chocolate selection includes:

• Black Forest & Cream

• Hazelnut & Toasted Marshmallow

• Hazelnut Praline

• White Salted Caramel

• Millionaires Hot Chocolate

Lastly, Christmas is the season of giving so we are offering you the chance to do just that with our prepaid Christmas cards - treat a loved one with the gift of coffee this Christmas. You can pay for five coffees and receive 6, or alternatively pay for 10 and receive 12, just take your Christmas card to your local barista to redeem your gift.

To get involved in all the festivities, find your nearest Cafe2U van here.

Cafe2U's Top Christmas Coffee Gifts

It’s beginning to look a latte like Christmas as the festive season is just around the corner - which means now is the time to get your gift buying done!

So why not treat the caffeine-mad significant other, family member or friend in your life to some coffee inspired gifts for Christmas 2020?

If you need a little inspiration here’s a few ideas for you:

An Ecoffee Cup

Cafe2U Ecoffee Cups are the perfect gift for a coffee lover and the environment - you can also buy them directly from your local Cafe2U barista.

Ecoffee’s mission is to encourage the use of reusable cups and here at Cafe2U we are proud to have teamed up with them to provide environmentally friendly alternatives to the normal options.

Cafe2U’s Coffee

Do you visit a Cafe2U barista regularly, or just love coffee? Well, you can purchase the same bags of coffee that we use as a gift to someone this Christmas. You can find out more about our coffee and how it’s made, from the farmers to our baristas, here.

We’ll be on the road in the build up to Christmas, so you’ll also be able to check out our new Christmas cups and all the different festive coffees we have to offer!

Coffee Guide Print

This simple infographic inspired poster details key coffees from around the world and is listed from £18.99 - available in small or medium sizes. It’s a great gift for anyone who loves a bit of art and wants to learn a little more about the coffee they drink.

We think that it looks pretty neat and you’ll be glad to know your Cafe2U barista has most of the coffees on the print available to enjoy. Order this print from Etsy today!

Coffee Christmas Hamper

This hamper features a selection of full blends, a cafetiere and chunky Belgian chocolate. For just under £20 this is the perfect gift for the coffee lover in your life and you can find out more about this box of goodies here.

Cafe2U Prepaid Card

A prepaid Cafe2U gift card is a great option as you can pre-purchase coffee on the card that can be redeemed by the recipient throughout 2021. Get in touch with your local barista to pick up a prepaid Cafe2U coffee gift card today!

These are just a few fantastic Christmas coffee gifts you can pick up this festive season. We hope you have a fantastic Christmas and make sure you double-check with your local Cafe2U barista to find out when and where they will be available during the coming weeks.

5 Common Mistakes When Brewing Coffee at Home

Millions of people brew coffee at home as part of their daily routine - especially when they can’t get to their nearest Cafe2U van.

However, it turns out a lot of us are making basic mistakes when preparing our beloved cups of the good stuff.

Here are five of the most common examples of these errors that we’ve looked to help you correct using our coffee expertise.

#1 Not Measuring your Coffee Correctly

Most of us haphazardly put a few spoonfuls of coffee in a mug, pour in our hot water and hope for the best.

Sure, it’s quick and easy, but for best results, you should measure out your coffee first.

We train each and every one of our Cafe2U baristas to weigh each coffee to one-tenth of a gram out of the grinder and time each shot to second, for a perfect coffee every time.

#2 Not having the Right Tools

Having good coffee making equipment is essential - it can be the difference between a bad coffee and a great coffee. You should also clean your coffee brewing equipment regularly to keep it in good working order.

At Cafe2U our experienced baristas have the best possible coffee making tools at their disposal - making us the best option for gourmet coffee on the road or to your door.

#3 Not Taking Enough Time

Making the perfect coffee can mean waiting the right amount of time to ensure the blend is perfectly brewed - but unfortunately a lot of us tend to rush this and end up with a weak cuppa.

Ultimately, it’s a lot easier to use our socially distanced service! So why rush, when we can bring freshly-brewed, barista-made coffee straight to your door? Find your nearest barista here.

#4 Using Stale Beans

Ideally, you want to use beans that have been roasted in the last 3 weeks - but you probably aren’t roasting your own beans at home. At Cafe2U, we only use 100% traceable, grade 1 beans from some of the best micro-lots in the world. Find out more about our beans here.

#5 Not Using the Right Cup

This might not seem like a big deal, but the cup you use can make a big difference. The shape and size of your mug or cup can intensify the flavours and aromas - and of course affect how long the coffee stays warm.

Your run of the mill comedy mug probably isn’t cutting it either. So why not pick up one of our Cafe2U reusable KeepCup cups from one of our baristas.

Becoming a Barista

If you already think you can make a decent coffee but want to take your passion to the next level, why not train to become one of our franchise baristas? To learn more about Cafe2U coffee, baristas and our great franchising opportunities, simply follow this link.

Halloween Recipes: Our Halloween Baking Ideas and Drinks

If you’re looking to frighten and delight your taste buds this Halloween, look no further than the list of easy Halloween baking ideas and Halloween-themed drinks that we have compiled.

We’ve provided a dead good collection of cakes, treats and spooky drinks. It’s a real treat from a few culinary tricks.

A Pumpkin Spice Latte

It may not be the spookiest but it’s still a Halloween spin on a classic coffee that you can make at home. Here’s what you'll need to create this warm delight:

• 2 tbsp pumpkin purée

• 1 tbsp soft brown sugar

• ¼ tsp mixed spice

• ¼ tsp cinnamon

• 250ml whole or semi-skimmed milk

• 2 shots espresso coffee

• Whipped cream and cocoa, to serve (optional)

Mix the pumpkin purée, sugar, spices and milk in a microwave-proof jug. Stir and combine your ingredients. Then cover your mixture with Clingfilm, then carefully pierce the Clingfilm, to let the steam escape. Microwave on full power for 1½-2 mins, until the milk is hot.

Using an electric milk frother or whisk, whisk for 30-45 secs until the milk is really frothy. Pour the hot coffee into a mug or glass, then add the spiced pumpkin milk. Top with cream, if using, then dust with a little more mixed spice and some cocoa if you’re feeling adventurous!

You can find the full recipe here.

Halloween Cocktails

For the adults, here are some fantastic Halloween-based drinks that can really get you in the mood for the frightful festivities.

Here’s what you’ll need to make The Witch’s Heart Cocktail:

• 1 shot apple brandy or apple vodka chilled

• 1 tsp grenadine

• Shaker

• Homemade Blackberry Shimmery Liqueur

• Powdered dry ice optional Martini glass or wine glass to serve

Add about 1/2 or 1 tablespoon of powdered dry ice to the bottom of the glass. Then place your apple brandy and purple shimmery liqueur into a shaker. Add one ice cube and shake for a few seconds to chill your concoction.

Then you’re ready to strain the drink into your glass. You can top up your drink with more purple shimmery liqueur if you feel it’s necessary.

Now you can put in one tablespoon of grenadine syrup, about an inch from the surface of the drink - the grenadine should sink to the bottom, creating a "bleeding" effect.

Add about 1/2 tsp of powdered dry ice on top and serve with a stirrer to create that shimmery, smoky effect.

Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This recipe recommends that you have it as breakfast but we think it works great as a dessert. Here’s how you can put a coffee spin on your pumpkin cake, start with your ingredients:

For the Coffee Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• 1 tsp vanilla

• 1/2 cup non-fat milk

For the streusel:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1 tbsp cinnamon Pinch salt

Once you’ve collected your ingredients, preheat your oven and spray a pan with nonstick cooking spray. Then Mix your two cups of flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice into a large bowl.

Start whisking and combing, then you can stir in the pumpkin, vegetable oil, vanilla and milk. Pour them all into a prepared pan.

In a smaller bowl, mix the melted butter with 1/4 cup flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir with a fork to get the mix to combine. Then you can spread it on top of the pumpkin cake layer.

Bake for 30-40 minutes, store it then covered on the counter for up to 2 days or freeze for up to one month.

Spider Biscuits

Something to get the kids involved in! These spider style biscuits can be made easily and here’s what you’ll need:

• 70g butter, softened

• 50g peanut butter

• 150g golden caster sugar

• 1 medium egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 180g plain flour

• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda

• 20 peanut butter cups, Rolos or Maltesers

• 100g milk chocolate, chopped Icing eyes, or make your own

Prepare the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4 and line two baking sheets with parchment.

Using a whisk, cream the butter, peanut butter and sugar together until they are very light and fluffy, then beat in the egg and vanilla. Once you’ve combined these ingredients, stir in the flour, bicarb and ¼ tsp salt.

Scoop 18-20 tbsps of the mixture onto the trays, leaving enough space between each to allow for spreading out. Make a thumbprint in the centre of the cookies.

Bake for 10-12 mins or until firm at the edges but still soft in the middle – they should harden a little as they cool. Leave to cool on the tray for a few mins before topping each biscuit with a peanut butter cup, Rolo or Malteser (or your chosen chocolate). Put your creation onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Now for the fun part, heat the chocolate in the microwave in short bursts, or in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water, until it’s just liquid. Scrape into a piping bag and leave to cool for a little while. Pipe the legs onto each spider, then stick two eyes on each. Leave to set.

These will keep for three days in an airtight container. You can find the full recipe here.

Halloween Punch

If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic but also Halloween themed, then this punch is designed for you! Get making this spooky delight using these ingredients:

• 2l cherry juice

• Peel from 3 oranges , pared with a vegetable peeler

• 1 thumb-sized red chilli, pierced a few times but left whole

• 3 cinnamon sticks

• 10 cloves

• 6 slices ginger

• Dracula's fangs sweets (available from sweet shops), to serve, optional

Tip the cherry juice, orange peel, chilli, cinnamon sticks, cloves and ginger into a large saucepan. Heat for 5 mins, then turn off the heat. Leave it to cool, then chill for at least 4 hrs, or up to 2 days – the longer you leave it the more intense the flavours will get. If serving it to young children, take the chilli out after a few hours.

These are just a few of the recipes you can make for this Halloween, we hope you have a fun and sensible time no matter what you get up to! Make sure you check out our new drinks menu - it’ll add that little bit extra to your Halloween!

International Coffee Day 2020

International Coffee Day is here - a day that brings together coffee lovers across the globe. It’s also a day to support the millions of farmers who provide our coffee and whose livelihoods depend on it.

This year ​International Coffee Day​ is celebrating the entire coffee ecosystem​ and the connections that coffee allows us to make around the world. Here, we’ve taken a closer look at this important event on the coffee calendar and have detailed a few fun facts about it.

Celebrating ICD internationally

At Cafe2U we have come up with some creative ways you can get involved in the international aspect of the day - like these phrases so you can order coffee all over the world:

““Puis-je avoir un café s’il-vous-plaît?” (French)”

““¿Me puede dar un café por favor?” (Spanish)”

““Kann ich bitte einen Kaffee haben?” (German)”

““Posso avere un caffè, per favore?” (Italian)”

““Posso tomar um café, por favor” (Portuguese)”

You can find more translations in this ​blog​, including phrases in Russian, Chinese and Arabic.

Who drinks the most coffee in the world?

Now that you’ve got your language skills up to scratch let’s take a look at where the most coffee is consumed around the globe: (from ​Atlas​, per capita)

1. Finland
2. Norway
3. Iceland
4. Denmark
5. Netherlands
6. Sweden
7. Switzerland
8. Belgium
9. Luxembourg
10. Canada

We certainly think the UK needs to start catching up!

How you can celebrate ICD 2020 with Cafe2U

Cafe2U delivers coffee up and down the country and if you want to enjoy this day with the perfect cup of coffee, you can book one of our mobile coffee vans to bring our award-winning menu of delectable coffees and food to your workplace or event.

Whether it’s an industrial estate, office block or a 10k run, our mobile cafés can provide everything you need to celebrate International Coffee Day.

Top Five Best Autumn Coffee Recipes

Now that summer has officially ended it’s the perfect time to share five of our best autumn coffee recipes!

From spiced classics to underrated treats, dive into this list and find your new favourite coffee drink that you can make from home as the weather gets colder and the nights draw in - just be sure to make sure you let us know how you get on!

#1 Pumpkin Spice Latte

A well-known classic and one of the most popular drinks for this time of year. Here’s the ingredients that you will need:

• 1 1/2 tbsps of sugar

• 2 tbsps of pumpkin puree

• 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice

• 1/2 cup (4oz / 115g) brewed coffee

• 1/2 cups (4oz / 115g) milk

Once you’ve collected your ingredients, add them all to a saucepan.

Stir all of your ingredients in the pan until they simmer and then take your pan off heat and pour into a mug.

Then, decorate your drink with freshly whipped cream and a sprinkles of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. You can find the full recipe with instructions ​here​, as well as a ​video​ showing you how to do it!

#2 Homemade Iced Maple Latte

This one can be made with or without ice - it’s up to you!

Let's start with the ingredients:

• 1 cup of milk

• 1-2 cups of ice

• 1 1/2 cups of coffee or espresso, at room temperature (if you want a warm latte, you can leave your coffee warm and omit the ice)

• 2 tbsps of pure maple syrup

In a jar with a lid, pour milk and shake vigorously back and forth for a minute, until foamy. Take off the lid and microwave for 15 seconds. Fill two large glasses with ice (optional).

Pour coffee evenly between the glasses. Drizzle in maple syrup between two cups.

If you like your lattes on the sweeter side, use a more maple syrup per cup.

Using a spoon, hold back the foam and pour a little milk into each glass. Then, take spoonfuls of the foam to add on top of the latte. Stir to combine and then it’s all yours to enjoy!

You can find the full recipe ​here.

#3 Gingerbread Spiced Coffee

This is a sweet, indulgent, warming drink for those who want a change from hot chocolate.

Let’s get stuck in with the ingredients for serving six:

• 175g of black treacle

• 4 tbsps of dark brown soft sugar

• 1⁄2 a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda

• 1 teaspoon of ground ginger

• 3⁄4 of a teaspoon of ground cinnamon

• 1.5l of hot brewed coffee

• 250ml of single cream

• 100g of whipped cream

• 1 teaspoon of ground cloves

In a small bowl, mix together the black treacle, dark brown soft sugar, bicarb, ginger and cinnamon until well blended.

Cover all of this up and then refrigerate it for at least 10 minutes.

Add about 60ml of coffee to each cup, then stir in a tablespoon of the spice until dissolved.

Fill the cup to within an inch of the top with coffee. Stir in single cream to taste, then garnish with whipped cream and a light dusting of ground clove. Then you’re all set to enjoy your creation!

You can find the full recipe ​here​ with images and instructions.

#4 The Mocha

Treat yourself with a Mocha this autumn - we have found a recipe where you don’t even need a machine! Alternatively you can always order a mocha from your nearest Cafe2U van!

Here’s the ingredients to make a homemade mocha:

• 1 cup of milk

• 1 tbsp of cocoa powder

• 1 square of dark chocolate baking bar or 1 tbsp of dark chocolate chips for decoration

• 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder or instant coffee

• 1 – 2 tbsp(s) of sugar

Firstly, heat your cup of milk over a pan on medium heat. Then your milk should start steaming, when this happens add your cocoa powder to the mix.

Now you can add your chocolate sprinkles or choc chips.

One of the final things to do is add your espresso powder into the mix. Once it’s all mixed pour into a mug and add some sugar!

You can find the full recipe ​here​ with pics!

#5 Red Velvet Latte

Not only is this latte appealing to the taste buds, but it’s probably the most visually appealing one on our list so far. A coffee that blends a delicious taste of vanilla and chocolate, here’s the ingredients you’ll be needing:

• 1 cup of whole milk

• 1 tbsp of sugar

• 3 oz of semi-sweet chocolate chunks

• 1/4 tsp of red food colouring

• 1/4 tsp of vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup of freshly brewed coffee

Put your milk and sugar into a medium sized saucepan. Bring your mix to a simmer on medium heat, keep stirring to dissolve the sugar in.

Remove your pan from the heat. Stir in the chocolate until it melts. Then add in your food colouring, coffee and vanilla - mix altogether.

Then your creation should be ready to serve - make sure you serve it up warm as that’s when it tastes the nicest!

Those are just a few of the recipes that you can enjoy this upcoming autumn and into winter! Let us know how you get on trying to make all of these delights, send your creations in via our social media channels.