If you love coffee and cozy holiday vibes, you’re going to be obsessed with this Hot Spiced Gingerbread Coffee.
It’s warm, rich, and full of those classic gingerbread spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
I make this every year as soon as the weather turns cold—it’s like a hug in a mug.
This recipe is easy to pull together with pantry staples, and it feels super special without being fussy.
It’s perfect for chilly mornings, holiday brunch, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
You can even top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon to make it feel extra festive.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’ve been making this since my first winter living on my own in a tiny apartment with bad heating and great taste. It was the one drink that made the whole place smell like a bakery and made me feel instantly at home.
- The spices make your kitchen smell like fresh gingerbread cookies
- It’s a fun twist on your regular cup of coffee
- Super easy to make with things you probably already have
- Feels cozy and comforting without needing a lot of time or effort
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (hot)
- ½ cup whole milk (or any milk you like)
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional: whipped cream and cinnamon for topping
Pro Tips
- Use freshly brewed strong coffee to balance the sweet and spicy flavors
- Heat your milk gently so it doesn’t scorch or form a skin
- Stir the molasses in while the milk is hot—it melts better
- Whipped cream isn’t required, but it really does make this drink magical
- A dash of cinnamon on top makes it photo-ready if you’re sharing on social
Tools Needed
- Small saucepan
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spoon or whisk
- Mug or heatproof glass
- Optional: milk frother
Substitutions and Variations
- Use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version
- Add a shot of espresso instead of regular coffee for a stronger kick
- Try maple syrup instead of molasses for a milder sweetness
- Add a splash of spiced rum for a grown-up version
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the milk, molasses, sugar, and spices ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just heat it up and pour it into fresh brewed coffee when you’re ready.
Recipe + Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Coffee
Brew 1 cup of strong hot coffee using your favorite method—drip, French press, or espresso machine.
Step 2: Heat the Milk and Spices
In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour in ½ cup whole milk. Add 2 tablespoons molasses, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves. Stir gently and heat until steaming, not boiling, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine with Coffee
Pour the hot spiced milk mixture into your mug with the brewed coffee. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Top and Serve
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Serve hot.
Leftovers and Storage
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the spiced milk mixture (without coffee) in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat and mix with fresh coffee when you’re ready.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Molasses adds depth and a warm, slightly bitter sweetness that balances perfectly with the coffee. The heat releases the aroma of the spices, making each sip full of cozy flavor. Using whole milk adds creaminess that blends smoothly with the brewed coffee.
Common Mistakes
- Boiling the milk: This can scald it and change the flavor. Just heat it until it steams.
- Using cold coffee: You need the coffee hot to blend well with the warm milk and spices.
- Skipping the stir: Make sure everything is well mixed or you’ll get spice clumps at the bottom.
What to Serve With
- Gingerbread cookies or biscotti
- Cinnamon rolls or coffee cake
- A savory breakfast sandwich to balance the sweetness
- Whipped cream and caramel drizzle for a café-style treat
FAQ
Can I make this iced?
Yes! Let the coffee and spiced milk mixture cool, then pour over ice.
Can I use instant coffee?
You can, but fresh brewed will taste much better.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just scale everything up evenly.
What if I don’t have molasses?
Use maple syrup or honey in a pinch, though the flavor will be different.
