Classic Hot Coffee

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 cups (480 ml) water
• 2 tablespoons ground coffee (medium grind)
• Sugar or sweetener, to taste (optional)
• Milk, cream, or half-and-half, to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the water until it just reaches a boil.
2. Brew the coffee using your preferred method:
   • Drip Coffee Maker: Add the coffee grounds to the filter and brew.
   • French Press: Pour the hot water over the grounds, steep for 4 minutes, then press the plunger down slowly.
   • Pour-Over: Slowly pour the hot water over the coffee grounds in a circular motion.
3. Pour the freshly brewed coffee into mugs.
4. Add sugar, milk, or cream, if desired, and stir well.
5. Serve immediately while hot.

Flavor Variations

• Vanilla Coffee: Stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
• Mocha Coffee: Add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder and sweeten to taste.
• Cinnamon Coffee: Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon before brewing.
• Caramel Coffee: Add 1 tablespoon caramel syrup and top with whipped cream.
• Hazelnut Coffee: Stir in 1 tablespoon hazelnut syrup.

Tips

• Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best flavor.
• A general brewing ratio is 1–2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces (180 ml) of water, depending on how strong you like it.
• Brew with water between 195°F and 205°F (90°C–96°C) for optimal extraction.
• Store coffee beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, away from moisture and heat.