Buying coffee already made is expensive, so here are a few tips when it comes to brewing at home.
MUGS Believe it or not, the mugs are actually important. I find that thick, big lipped mugs undermine that coffee taste. I love huge mugs with thin lips that let you just fill 'em up. My favorite is the White Embossed Siren Logo Mug by Starbucks (6.95). Some mornings I'll drink four of those monsters, usually when I'm in the need for artistic inspiration.
INSTANT This stuff is pretty gross, but if you simply HAVE to drink it, the Via's made my Starbucks are pretty good. Also try the Nescafe Premium. Remember that instant coffee has less caffeine, but that doesn't mean adding more powder. Just drink a few more cups.
BREWING If you're fortunate to have a coffee maker, I usually buy Peet's Major Dickison's or Las Hermadas. Use water that's been filtered, and make sure the coffee to water ratio is correct. If you're using one of the hand held filter holders, be sure the coffee is very hot but not boiling, and pour it straight down the center. If you want some more, pour water over the extra grounds that collect on the sides of the filter
MILK I usually heat up 1/3 cup of one percent and pour the coffee over that. Half and Half (I like to use fat free, you can't really taste the difference) is great if you're in a rush. Just pour a little on top and you're good to go. Avoid too much milk, because you'll lose the rich coffee flavors.
SUGAR My favorite kind of sugar is the sugar in the raw, the brown big flakes. I love it in hot coffee, but especially in iced coffee. Buy it at your local supermarket. If you're watching your weight. Equal works wonders. I usually still put a bit of real sugar in, just to get the sugar taste that I'm accustomed to in my coffee.
EXTRAS Try Nestle's hot cocoa powder. Mix in half a packet to your coffee. It sometimes even eliminates the need for sugar and milk. I would not recommend Hershey's syrup. I love sprinkling a bit of cinnamon on top when I've added a lot of cream. Also great are a few drops of genuine vanilla syrup.
FRAPPUCCINOS My friend Julia's mother has somehow figured out the art of the frappuccino at home... I think she even throws in some cream cheese. I've tried it myself, but to no avail. However, I found a website to help you out. It includes a recipe and some helpful videos.
