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these final winter days | coffee ideas



The days are finally starting to become ever-so-slightly longer. We have been pleasantly surprised with warmer days lately, and it just brings the hope of spring to the front of my mind. However, I still look out and see leafless trees, brown grass, death where there was once life. The days have been constantly overcast, making for a dreary glow in the windows.





We are up with the birds whom I hear more and more from each morning, building up to the dawn chorus that is so inspiring in the spring. I carry a baby and follow a toddler, eyes still mostly shut, to the kitchen and flip on the kettle for coffee. I set baby down, rummage for the egg pan, warm it with coconut oil as eggs are cracked and whisked with a fork. In between whisking, pouring, warming, I typically move Calvin to his seat at the table with a full glass of milk and a book to leaf through as he waits for breakfast, usually void of all patience.

After breakfast is made, tummies are full, dishwasher is loaded, I remember the kettle. Every morning, it happens the same way. I mean for coffee during breakfast, but preparation is hurried and coffee is not. And so, as the babes play quietly, I flip the tab for the electric kettle once again and prepare coffee.



Black in the morning, with coconut cream and a bit of honey in the afternoon. Black coffee used to be the only way I preferred it, but lately it's felt like such a treat to get everyone down for naps, I just make it a little more fitting for the occasion.

In the winter, things sometimes need to have a bit more personality to get us through. Black coffee is amazing, but every once in awhile something added makes for a little spark in my days. It may sound silly, but these little things make the biggest difference, don't they?

I've been putting little fresh things in my coffee here and there, and it's turned out quite tasty! I thought I'd share in case you needed a little something to liven up your morning rituals, as I do.

My brew method of choice is my Chemex. It's super easy to add things to the grounds, and I love the ritual of slowly pouring water over them out of my goosneck kettle. I prefer it to my French Press because it seems to come out smoother and without the little film of residue that I find in my press. That being said, I opt for French Press often, as well. It's a little quicker and I can just set the timer for a few minutes and pour when it beeps. I can't recommend adding things to the grounds of your instant coffee machine, because I haven't done it! Just experiment as you like and find your favorite things.



Freshly Grated Nutmeg
Just grate a bit into your grounds (I use probably half of a teaspoon or less), and brew with your coffee! Fresh is key. You can't beat it!

Cinnamon Stick 
I like to throw a cinnamon stick into the bottom of my French Press. I typically add a bit of nutmeg, as well. The stick will strain with the grounds! Keep it and use a few times, if you'd like.

Lavender and Honey
Use just a pinch of food-safe dried lavender in your coffee grounds. Too much will taste soapy, but a little bit will remind you of summer and leave the perfect hint of flavor. I like to squeeze a bit of raw honey in the bottom of my mug before pouring coffee over it. Lavender and honey are one of my favorite combinations. You could also make a simple syrup with lavender, sugar and water to keep on hand in the fridge. In that case, I'd omit the honey.

Fresh Rosemary
I don't always have this around in the winter. When I do, there is typically extra from cooking. A friend made this for me in her french press when I went over for a play date and it was amazing! Just stick a sprig of rosemary in your grounds and it makes for a lovely flavored coffee. Sounds a little weird? Just try it. I was skeptical and am in love.


What kinds of things do you like to add to your coffee? I'd love to hear more ideas!


p.s. If you want a guide on pour overs and french presses, I like to use this one.