Don’t Toss Those Cloves! Here’s What They REALLY Do in Coffee (and It’s Not What You Think)

You might have stumbled upon a tip suggesting cloves and coffee grounds are a magical money-saving duo. But before you raid your spice cabinet, let’s clear the air: cloves and coffee don’t replace actual coffee beans.

However, cloves can add a unique twist to your coffee experience! Let’s explore what cloves actually do and how to use them to create a delicious cup of coffee.

The Truth About Cloves and Coffee:

• No Replacement: Cloves are a powerful spice, but they lack the caffeine and rich coffee flavor we crave.
• Aromatic Enhancement: Cloves offer a warm, pungent aroma with hints of spice. Used sparingly, they can add a delightful complexity to your coffee.

Spiced Up Coffee: Brewing with Cloves

There are a few ways to incorporate cloves into your coffee ritual. Here are two methods:

Method 1: Whole Cloves

• Ingredients:
  • Your favorite ground coffee
  • Whole cloves (2-3 per cup)
• Instructions:
  1. Grind your coffee beans as usual.
  2. Add the whole cloves to your coffee filter along with the grounds.
  3. Brew your coffee using your preferred method (pour-over, drip machine, etc.).
  4. Remove the filter and enjoy your subtly spiced coffee.

Method 2: Ground Cloves

• Ingredients:
  • Your favorite ground coffee
  • Ground cloves (a pinch per cup)
• Instructions:
  1. Grind your coffee beans as usual.
  2. Add a pinch of ground cloves to your coffee filter along with the grounds.
  3. Brew your coffee using your preferred method.
  4. Remove the filter and enjoy your coffee with a touch of clove warmth.

Tips for Success:

• Start with a pinch: A little goes a long way with cloves. Too much can overpower the coffee flavor.
• Experiment with brewing methods: French press or pour-over brewing may allow the cloves to infuse their flavor more intensely.
• Explore other spices: Cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg can also add interesting dimensions to your coffee.

The Takeaway:

Cloves are not a coffee substitute, but they can be a fun way to add a unique twist to your morning cup. So next time you’re brewing, experiment with a pinch of clove and discover a new flavor profile to enjoy!