Coffee Station
If you have a true love for coffee, you probably realize that going out for a hot cup of your favorite Java is a welcoming treat. Whether it’s a matter of taste or convenience or both, one thing’s for certain, the costs can really begin to add up day after day. Being able to prepare and serve a tasty cup of Joe at home is what many people search for. Creating a coffee station that matches the décor of your home will give you a good platform to start making your favorite coffee drinks, and save you some money too.
Begin By Adding The Right Ingredients
Make sure that as you set up your coffee station, you have access to everything that makes your trademark cup of coffee great. This may include:
- A variety of non-fat creamers.
- Sugar and sugar substitutes.
- Coffee flavorings.
- Flavored syrups, including vanilla coffee syrup.
- Hot chocolate or chocolate pieces.
- Candy or artificial flavor enhancers.
- Napkins or paper towels.
- Spoons, swizzle sticks, and straws.
- Cinnamon, or other flavored sprinkles.
- Treats such as muffins, croissants, biscotti or cookies.
You can add different ingredients and condiments to your coffee bar depending on your dietary needs and how many people will be using the area.
You’ll also want to make sure that you have everything on hand to make your favorite recipes. This may include heavy cream, whipped topping or other dairy products that are stored in a refrigerated unit. Always include your favorite dishes, and serving trays that match the style of your home. Most importantly, your coffee station is the best place to display your favorite coffee mugs.
Start With A Good Machine
A coffee station is simply an area or piece of furniture where you can display your coffee maker as well as other coffee-related items that you frequently use to create your caffeinated drinks. The main focal point of a coffee station, in addition to its design, is the coffee maker or machine. Depending on what kind of drinks you prefer, will determine what type of machine you’ll most enjoy using. Here are just a few examples:
- Percolator or French Press – Both use hot water that passes through coffee grounds to create the perfect cup of Joe. With the French press, water is typically preheated prior to being poured into the device.
- Moka Pot – Similar to a Percolator or French Press, water is heated and then passes over the coffee grounds to make a strong coffee or espresso to your liking.
- Vacuum Style Coffee Maker – Using a vacuum method, water is heated in the maker and then used to create just the right amount of steam. From there, you can enjoy all of the essential oils that make up the element of the coffee. A stronger, bolder flavor can evolve from this type of coffee maker.
- Thermal Coffee Maker – A thermal coffee maker generates coffee and then empties it into a thermal carafe—where it retains its heat and aroma.
- Espresso Maker – An espresso maker uses a high-pressure system to force hot water through coffee grounds. You can adjust the strength of your espresso on most machines and also create tasty cappuccinos, lattes, and various coffee drinks.
- Drip Style Coffee Maker – One of the most traditional and popular styles of coffee makers, this allows a versatile way to serve up single and multiple cups of coffee quickly.
You can also upgrade your coffee maker to a more advanced machine that is either single-serving or has multiple uses. Some machines can produce a regular pot of brewed coffee and also offer an option for froth, espresso and a variety of brewing techniques. If you’re looking to upgrade your coffee maker then visit Kitchen Professor for some great recommendations.
Creating The Coffee Station
Creating a welcoming and functional coffee station is important. Adding some charm can really make it a welcoming focal point and add to the overall décor of your home. For many homes, you can create a coffee station that works for you and also makes it easy for guests to grab what they need. This starts with finding a location that has all of the electrical outlets to accommodate your machine and the space as well. A hutch, cabinet or homemade pallet table all make great bases for a coffee station. If you don’t have a lot of space, you can utilize space on your countertop. Adding clear canisters to store condiments, stirrers and spoons give off a coffee station vibe that will attract people to make their own cup of Joe.
Make your coffee station your own by adding a small pot of herbs, a plant and home décor that is coffee-themed. Before you know it, you’ll have your guests and family members hanging out and enjoying their new favorite spot.
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