If you’re looking for a coffee that feels like a warm embrace, Café de Olla is the answer. This isn’t just any coffee—it’s a fragrant, spiced, soul-warming tradition deeply rooted in Mexican history. Simmered in ollas de barro (clay pots) for generations, this drink brings together the boldness of coffee, the sweetness of piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), and the comforting aroma of cinnamon.
Unlike regular brewed coffee, Café de Olla isn’t just about caffeine—it’s about experience. The clay pot enhances the depth of flavor, spices add warmth, and its preparation invites you to slow down, savor, and appreciate the moment. Whether you’re enjoying it on a crisp morning, during a festive celebration, or alongside a traditional Mexican breakfast, Café de Olla is a sip of culture and comfort.
A Brief History of Café de Olla
The tradition of Café de Olla dates back to the Mexican Revolution in the early 1900s, when soldaderas (women who accompanied the revolutionary troops) prepared large pots of coffee infused with cinnamon and piloncillo. They brewed this drink to provide warmth and energy to soldiers during long battles, turning Café de Olla into more than just a morning staple—it became a symbol of resilience, unity, and strength.
Over time, the recipe evolved, and different regions of Mexico added their own twists—some incorporating cloves, star anise, orange peel, and even chocolate. Today, Café de Olla remains popular across Mexico, served in traditional markets, cozy homes, and even fine-dining restaurants that celebrate its rich heritage.
What Makes Café de Olla So Special?
What sets Café de Olla apart from regular coffee? It’s all about the ingredients and the brewing method:
✔ Piloncillo – This natural cane sugar has deep caramel and molasses undertones, unlike refined white sugar. It adds complexity and richness to the coffee. ✔ Cinnamon – Mexican canela is preferred, as it’s softer, sweeter, and more aromatic than standard cinnamon sticks. ✔ Clay Pot (Olla de Barro) – Traditionally used for brewing, the porous nature of the clay pot enhances the flavor, giving the coffee an earthy depth. ✔ Slow Brewing Method – Unlike quick drip coffee, Café de Olla is simmered gently, allowing time for the spices and sugar to infuse the liquid thoroughly.
The result? A bold, sweet, aromatic drink that feels like a warm hug in a cup.
When Do Mexicans Drink Café de Olla?
Café de Olla isn’t just a morning ritual—it holds a special place in Mexican culture and is enjoyed on various occasions, including:
🌅 Cold mornings – Cozy and invigorating. 💀 Día de Muertos – Often served with pan de muerto, the traditional sweet bread for honoring loved ones. 🎄 Christmas & holidays – A festive and warming drink, sometimes with a hint of chocolate. 🍞 Weekend breakfasts – A staple in traditional Mexican homes, often enjoyed with pan dulce (sweet bread).
What You’ll Need (Serves 4)
| Ingredient | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| 4 cups water | The base of our brew |
| 3-4 tbsp ground coffee (dark roast) | Bold enough to stand up to the spices |
| 1 cinnamon stick (Mexican canela if possible) | Sweet, soft cinnamon flavor |
| 60g piloncillo (or dark brown sugar) | Adds deep caramel-like sweetness |
| (Optional) 1-2 cloves | Adds warmth and depth |
| (Optional) Orange peel or star anise | Enhances aroma and complexity |
📝 No piloncillo? You can substitute dark brown sugar with a touch of molasses!
How to Make Café de Olla (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Infuse the Spices
- In a clay pot (or saucepan), combine water, cinnamon, piloncillo, and any optional ingredients (cloves, orange peel).
- Bring to a gentle simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the sugar dissolve and the spices release their full aroma.
👉 Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible.
2. Brew the Coffee
- Turn off the heat.
- Add ground coffee and stir.
- Let it steep for 5 minutes—similar to a spiced French press.
3. Strain & Serve
- Using a fine mesh strainer (or cheesecloth), filter out the coffee grounds and spices.
4. Enjoy It Hot
- Pour into clay mugs, if available—it enhances the traditional experience!
- No milk necessary—this coffee is perfect on its own.
Flavor & Vibes
🧡 Taste: Balanced sweetness, bold coffee, warm cinnamon spice, and a slight earthy tone (if brewed in clay). ☁️ Mood: Perfect for slow mornings, cozy evenings, or festive gatherings. 🍞 Pairing Suggestions: Conchas, churros, or Mexican tamales.
Fun Variations to Try
🥶 Iced Version: Let it cool, pour over ice, and add a splash of milk. 🥃 Spiked Café de Olla: Add a shot of vanilla liqueur or reposado tequila for an adult twist. 🥛 Dairy Twist: Steam milk into it for a Café de Olla Latte.
Why Café de Olla Feels Like Home
In Mexico, Café de Olla is more than a drink—it’s a gesture of hospitality and tradition. It’s served for:
👪 Family gatherings – A way to connect over conversation. 🚶 Street vendors – A warming, energizing start to the day. 💀 Holiday traditions – Often placed on Día de Muertos altars.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Coffee
Café de Olla is a ritual, a comfort, and a story in a cup. Whether you’re brewing it to experience a bit of Mexican culture, sharing it with someone special, or simply savoring it slowly, this coffee delivers more than just caffeine—it brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of magic to your day.
So why not take a quiet morning, brew a pot, and imagine yourself in a sunlit mercado in Mexico?
Because sometimes, the best travels happen in your own kitchen. ☕🇲🇽