Coffee Sauce

Coffee Sauce is a rich, smooth, and deeply flavorful sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over ice cream, cakes, pancakes, waffles, or even mixing into your morning oatmeal. With a bold coffee kick balanced by just the right amount of sweetness, this versatile sauce turns any dessert or breakfast into something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Coffee Sauce is incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. It’s a great way to elevate everyday treats with a café-inspired touch. You’ll love how it adds a warm, slightly bitter note that balances sweet desserts perfectly — think of it as your new secret ingredient for impressing guests or treating yourself!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Strong brewed coffee or espresso
• Granulated sugar or brown sugar
• Heavy cream or whole milk
• Unsalted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Brew a strong cup of coffee or prepare a double shot of espresso.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the coffee and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly reduced.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and butter until smooth and glossy.
5. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if desired. Stir to combine.
6. Let the sauce cool slightly before serving warm, or store it for later use.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1 cup of Coffee Sauce. Total time, including prep and cooking, is about 15 minutes.

Variations

• Use brown sugar for a deeper caramel-like flavor.
• Add a splash of coffee liqueur for an adults-only twist.
• Stir in a bit of cocoa powder for a mocha version.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Storage/Reheating

Store Coffee Sauce in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm and pourable.

FAQs

What can I use Coffee Sauce for?

Drizzle it over ice cream, cakes, pancakes, waffles, bread pudding, or stir it into yogurt or oatmeal.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Coffee Sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and a dairy-free butter alternative for a delicious dairy-free version.

Does it taste bitter?

It has a pleasant coffee bitterness balanced by sugar and cream — adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Can I freeze Coffee Sauce?

It’s best used fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

How do I thicken Coffee Sauce?

Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce further, but don’t overcook or it may become too thick once cooled.

Can I use instant coffee?

Yes — dissolve instant coffee in hot water to use in place of brewed coffee or espresso.

Is it the same as coffee syrup?

No — coffee syrup is usually sweeter and thinner, while this sauce is richer and creamier.

How can I make it extra glossy?

Adding a bit of butter and stirring well makes the sauce smooth and shiny.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger saucepan and adjust simmering time as needed.

Conclusion

This easy homemade Coffee Sauce is the perfect way to add a touch of café-style indulgence to your favorite desserts and breakfasts. With its deep, rich flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Make a batch and drizzle it over everything — you’ll fall in love with its deliciously bold taste!

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