Forget watery office coffee (what we call “dirty water”), or overpriced coffee shop runs. Your work from home coffee can be a bold, sweet Cuban espresso made right in your kitchen with just a few simple tools (see below).
It’s the kind of ritual that breaks up your day, gets you off your screen, and gives you a real energy boost.
I started making Cuban coffee after my wife taught me how she made it for her family and co-workers. Now it’s my go-to. If you work from home, this might become your favorite routine too!

What You’ll Need
You don’t need a fancy machine. In fact, the simpler the tools, the better the flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Stovetop espresso maker → Buy on Amazon
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Milk frother (optional, for Cortaditos) → Buy on Amazon
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Stainless steel frothing cup → Buy on Amazon
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Espresso cup → Buy on Amazon
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Espresso mug (optional, for Cortaditos) → Buy on Amazon
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Long spoons → Buy on Amazon
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Dark roast espresso coffee → Buy on Amazon
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Whole milk (for Cortaditos) → Buy on Amazon
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Cane sugar → Buy on Amazon
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Filtered water
How to Make the Best Work From Home Coffee:
Step #1: Fill the Base with Filtered Water
Pour filtered water into the bottom chamber of your espresso maker, just below the valve.
Step #2: Insert the Filter Basket
Drop in the filter basket so it sits tight.
Step #3: Add Coffee Grounds
Spoon in the coffee grounds and fill it up to the top to make sure it’s level. Press down to pack it in a little, but not too tight!
Step #4: Twist the Top On Tightly
Screw the espresso maker’s top and bottom together. It should be snug but not over-tightened.
Step #5: Place on the Stove
Set it from medium to high heat.
Optional: Froth Milk for a Cortadito
If you want a Cortadito, start steaming your milk in the frothing machine. 160° should do the trick!
Step #6: Add Cane Sugar to a Cup
Scoop 2 to 4 tablespoons of sugar into your frothing cup.
Step #7: Listen for Bubbling
When you hear bubbling or gurgling, that means your coffee is climbing up into the top chamber. Remove it from the heat immediately.
Step #8: Melt the Sugar
Pour a small amount of the coffee (about a teaspoon) into the sugar. Stir hard and fast to make espuma, a sugary foam.
Step #9: Build the Foam
Keep stirring until it turns creamy and light brown, like a caramel mousse. Add a bit more coffee and stir again to build a nice top layer.
Step #10: Pour and Serve
Add the rest of the espresso to your cup. Give it one light stir, then top with the foam. For Cortaditos, add your steamed milk until it turns a nice golden color, then use your spoon to scrape the foamy milk to add a thick layer at the top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cuban espresso stronger than regular coffee?
Yes, but not in a way that feels harsh. Cuban espresso packs about the same caffeine as a regular 8 oz coffee, but it’s concentrated into a small, bold shot. You get a clean jolt of energy without having to drink an entire cup.
Can I make this without sugar?
Technically yes, but then it’s just espresso. What makes Cuban coffee unique is the espuma; a sweet, whipped sugar foam made with the first drops of coffee. If you’re cutting back on sugar, try using less rather than skipping it completely. Artificial sweeteners won’t create the same foam.
What’s the deal with decaf?
You can use decaf espresso if you just want the taste or enjoy the ritual, but it won’t give you the same pick-me-up. It’s still rich and flavorful, especially if you follow the espuma steps.
Do I really need a milk frother for a Cortadito?
A high quality milk frother gives you that warm, silky milk texture Cortaditos are known for. But if you don’t have one, you can heat milk on the stove and whisk it by hand. It’s not as smooth, but it still works.
What if I don’t have a moka pot?
The stovetop espresso maker (moka pot) is key for making Cuban coffee the traditional way. You can try with other espresso methods, but you’ll miss the specific pressure and flavor that comes from this setup. They’re affordable and last forever (i.e. worth getting!).
How long does this whole thing take?
About 8 to 10 minutes start to finish. Just enough time for a reset during your work from home day without dragging things out.
Can I batch this for later?
Not really. Cuban espresso tastes best fresh. The foam collapses quickly and reheated espresso just doesn’t hit the same. If you want to share, brew a full pot and serve it right away in smaller cups.
Conclusion
This is infinitely better than drinking tasteless, watered down coffee. Making a rich and frothy Cuban espresso gives you the best coffee experience and you can make at home, saving you a lot of money and hassle.
If you work from home regularly, you know that breaking up screen time and giving your brain a reset is not only important for your mental health, but it’ll help make the day feel less like a grind.
We hope you learned something today about how to make the best work from home coffee – Cuban style! Visit our blog for more articles and subscribe to our email list to keep learning more about digital marketing!
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