Happy National Gourmet Coffee Day

Today is National Gourmet Coffee Day, which got us wondering, "what makes a gourmet coffee gourmet?" The definition of the word gourmet includes, "involving high-quality or exotic ingredients and skilled preparation," and while your favorite coffee shop may come to mind, that's totally something you can do at home.

We asked the AllSpice team for their suggestions on AllSpice ingredients you can use at home to zhuzh up your cup 'o joe, and here's what they had to say...

Elevate your grounds

Try adding a bit of Saigon Cinnamon, Allspice, or Nutmeg to the coffee basket along with your grounds prior to brewing to add a warm and unique aroma and flavor to your brewed pot of coffee. Or try using Green Cardamom in the basket for a Turkish-inspired coffee.

Stir it in

Already brewed a pot? Try stirring in a bit of Caramel Sugar, Honey Sugar Powder, Maple Sugar Powder, Vanilla Powder, or Vanilla Paste. Each of these ingredients will add both flavor and a bit of sweetness to your cup of coffee.

Just want the flavor boost? Add a few drops of your favorite extract (we like Almond Extract, Hazelnut Extract, and Maple Extract the best).

Simply add syrup

Speaking of extracts, did you know you can use extracts to make your own fancy coffee syrups at home? It's easy! Start with 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in a saucepan. Simmer, stirring regularly, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from the heat and add 2 tsp. of your favorite extract. Allow to cool and store in an airtight container. 

The resulting flavored syrup is great for adding flavor to iced coffees and espresso drinks - hot or cold.

Attention chocolate lovers

We'd be remiss not to mention the mocha. AllSpicer Andy loves to use our Café Blend Hot Chocolate to make his morning mocha. Warm your milk, add a tablespoon or two of the hot chocolate blend and a shot (or two) of espresso, and stir to combine. Yum!

What's in your coffee? Tell us in the comments section below!