Café Miel

When I tell you I go to bed geeked about my morning honey latte, I'm not kidding.

And I'll also tell you the single best investment on a kitchen gadget - hands down - is my Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine [no commission and/or affiliation; just wanted to share what I'm currently using] There was definitely a bit of a learning curve to dial in the correct grind size, and time, to pull the perfect shot [8 seconds to be exact], but once I fine tuned and adjusted using a cheap-o bag of coffee beans, I haven't had to mess with the settings at all over the years. It also helped having prior barista experience. Yes, I was a Biggby Barista at one point in my life and honestly if I could be a Barista in the Florida Keys as my day job, I totally would.

Aside from the espresso, honey, cinnamon, and milk, I usually add in Cymbiotika's Nootropic Creamer

to boost the nutrient density of my latte since this creamer helps boost brain and memory function, slows the release of caffeine, contains natural superfood properties, and enhances mood and stress resilience. Plus, it tastes really good and naturally sweetened with stevia.

Otherwise, these are some of my favorite add-ins to my morning latte:

⊹ homemade vanilla simple syrup (I use honey as my base for simple syrups)

⊹ homemade lavender simple syrup

⊹ dark brown sugar (specifically dark for a higher molasses content)

⊹ organic maple syrup

⊹ homemade caramel (a labor of love, but worth having a jar on hand)

I'm not sure what sparked this wild idea, but my next syrup/sauce I'd like to create is a sweet potato inspired latte. The subtle sweetness from the sweet potato mixed with comforting spices like nutmeg, clove, and ginger - a cup of cozy if you ask me. Stay tuned on this creation!

Have some fun trying out different combinations, and adjust the honey, or syrups, to your liking. Romanticize your rise further by adding in some morning meditation or yoga and allow this to become a beautiful part of your daily rhythm.