Coffee El Greco

Prep: 10 min Serves: 24

A fragrant spice creaming base with warm notes of allspice, nutmeg, and cinnamon, ideal for enhancing coffee or desserts, perfect for cozy gatherings and spice lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. butter
  • 1 c. brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1/8 tsp. allspice
  • 1/8 tsp. nutmeg
  • 1/8 tsp. cinnamon
  • pinch of salt
  • lemon peel, cut in small strips
  • orange peel, cut in small strips
  • heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare Spice Base by thoroughly creaming butter with brown sugar, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. This Spice Base is enough for about 24 servings and may be kept indefinitely in a covered container in the refrigerator.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adjusting the spices to your taste. If you don't have allspice, a combination of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg can work well. This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings, making it perfect for events like a Coffee Carnival.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Coffee El Greco spice blend over freshly brewed coffee, topped with a generous pour of heavy cream. It’s a delightful treat on its own but can also be paired with sweet snacks like Merengues (Little Candy Kisses) or a slice of Dutch Honey Bread for a delicious afternoon pick-me-up.

Storage & Reheating

Store the Spice Base in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for several weeks. When ready to use, scoop out the desired amount and let it come to room temperature before incorporating it into your coffee. If needed, gently reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Coffee El Greco contains roughly 60 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.

60 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.6g 1% DV
Total Fat 4.3g 6% DV
Carbs 5.2g 2% DV
Fiber 2.2g 8% DV
Sugar 0.4g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 82.9mg 4% DV
Potassium 38.8mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 2mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 5.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 21mg 2% DV
Iron 0.3mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of sugar instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar, but the flavor will be less rich and caramel-like. For a closer match, you might try using coconut sugar, which offers a similar depth and sweetness.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use a plant-based heavy cream alternative. Almond or coconut cream can add a nice flavor without the dairy.

What can I do with leftover spice base?

The leftover spice base can be used not only for coffee but also as a flavor enhancer in baked goods like cookies and cakes. It can add a delightful twist to oatmeal or yogurt, making it a versatile addition to your pantry.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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