If you had told me ten years ago that I would someday look forward to making coffee every single morning, I probably would have laughed.
I grew up drinking tea. Tea was comforting, familiar, and part of everyday life in our home. Coffee always seemed a little too strong, too bitter, or honestly just “not for me.” Even into my 30s, I never really understood the excitement people had about coffee, espresso, or iced lattes.
And then one day, everything changed after a fateful coffee encounter!
A friend of mine let me try one of her fancy iced drinks, a Cuban, and to my surprise… I loved it! It was creamy, lightly sweet, refreshing, and felt more like a treat than a cup of coffee. I couldn’t stop thinking about it afterward.
Not long after that, my husband surprised me with an espresso maker for Christmas so I could experiment with making coffee drinks at home. It was such a thoughtful gift, and honestly, I had no idea it would become something I’d enjoy this much.
Now here I am in my 40s, making coffee at home every day, and it has become one of my favorite rituals.
There’s just something so comforting about it, the sound of grinding beans, the espresso brewing, and the aroma of fresh coffee through out the house.
These few quiet moments in the morning before the day begins have become one of those small things that brings me genuine joy and gives me something to look forward to each day.
Making Coffee at Home Is More Economical
One thing I quickly realized is how much money making coffee at home can save!
Coffee shop drinks are delicious, but they can add up fast, especially when specialty drinks cost more than several dollars each. Making coffee at home lets me enjoy those same special drinks for a fraction of the cost, and I can use my favorite latte glasses and glass straws!
Plus, I can customize everything exactly how I like it:
- lighter sweetness
- healthier ingredients
- dairy-free options
- extra espresso when needed
- fun seasonal flavors
It feels like having my own little café right in the kitchen.
Supporting a Friend’s Coffee Business
Another thing that makes this experience extra special is where we get our coffee beans.
We buy our beans from one of my husband’s good friends, who owns a coffee business and grows his own beans. There’s something especially meaningful about supporting someone we know personally, who has a beautiful heart, and enjoying coffee that has been grown and crafted with care. It makes every cup feel even more special knowing the story behind it!
Finding Inspiration Through Coffee Books
Lately, I’ve also been getting new inspiration from The New Art of Coffee. It has been a fun way to learn more about different coffee drinks, brewing methods, flavor combinations, and creative ideas to try at home.
Since I’m still fairly new to the world of coffee, I love discovering little ways to make my daily cup feel special. The book has inspired me to branch out beyond my usual iced latte and experiment with things like flavored syrups, cold foam (love!), seasonal drinks, and even trying different types of coffee beans.
It’s amazing how something as simple as making coffee can turn into a creative new hobby.
My Favorite Easy Homemade Iced Latte
One of the drinks I make most often is a simple almond milk iced latte that feels indulgent but is still made with wholesome ingredients.
Honey Cinnamon Almond Milk Iced Latte
Ingredients:
- 1-2 shots espresso
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- ice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- sprinkle of cinnamon
- optional splash of vanilla extract
Directions
- Brew your espresso and let it cool slightly.
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add almond milk, honey, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Pour espresso over the top.
- Stir and enjoy!
It tastes like a coffee shop treat, without leaving the house!
Fun Coffee Ideas to Try at Home
If you’re newer to coffee like I am, experimenting with flavors and recipes is half the fun. Here are a few easy ideas:
- iced vanilla almond latte
- mocha coffee with cocoa powder
- caramel cinnamon cold brew
- blended frozen coffee drinks
- brown sugar shaken espresso
- peppermint or gingerbread mocha (during the holidays)
- pumpkin spice iced coffee (in the fall)
You can even create a small ‘coffee station’ at home with syrups, cinnamon, cute mugs, glass straws, and different milks to make mornings feel a little extra special.
It’s Funny How Tastes Change
I still love tea and probably always will, but coffee has become such an unexpected joy in this season of life.
It’s funny how sometimes we discover new things about ourselves later than we expect.
What started as one sip of a friend’s iced latte, has turned into a daily ritual that brings comfort, creativity, energy, and happiness into my routine. And honestly, with a full life focused on raising tiny humans that I adore, alongside my best friend, those small joys matter so much.
So if you’ve ever thought about trying homemade coffee drinks, this is your sign to give it a try. You might just discover a new favorite part of your day too!