Rain’s art prompt today is coffee shop. The picture above reminds me of a coffee shop in downtown Knoxville that had a gorgeous espresso machine like this one. They not only made coffee but roasted their beans. It was some of the best coffee we’d ever had. Unfortunately, they are no longer around.
Another thing that came to mind is the coffee syrups I made over the holiday season. For Thanksgiving, I made Pumpkin Spice Syrup and for Christmas, Peppermint syrup. For years, I’ve been a converted Coffee Shop at Home lover but these simple, easy recipes absolutely blew me away making some of the best lattes I ever had. If you like lattes but hate the expense and/or lack of taste big name coffee shops sell you, then you’re in for a special treat!
The original recipes are an excellent starting point but here’s what I learned. The Pumpkin Spice syrup, made with maple syrup is quite good, but I think brown sugar might enhance the flavors and spices better. I will try that next time. For the peppermint syrup, I was concerned about getting it too strong. After reviewing a handful of recipes, I erred on the cautious side. In the end, I wound up increasing the peppermint extract by a quarter teaspoon. In fact, we felt another quarter teaspoon was needed. I adjusted my recipe to reflect the change for future attempts. Happy drinking!
I did not make a error in spelling. Let me explain. At first I scribbled “Coffee Cathy” a spin off of Coffee Cafe but that stretched the imagination and then I thought how I said my name as a child, Caffey. Now, that comes closer to cafe and so I went with it! As the late Andy Ronney might say, “And now you know the rest of the story.”
Among my many blessings, I’m particularly thankful for coffee. The first hot cup of Joe is a huge help to get my day started and a second one insures I’m revved up!
Next Thursday, I have another TAD planned. I’ll be back with Monday’s Music Moves Me where you’ll find me boogieing on the dance floor. If you have music to share or you’re just a music lover then this is the party for you, so come join the fun. This is CAAC signing off, have a doodletastic day! X💋, Cathy
Are you looking for new Thursday blog connections? Consider visiting a few of my friends!
- Rain’s Kitchen & Garden for Thursday Art Date
- Brian’s Home for Thankful Thursdays
- Moonwashed Musings for Weekly Poetry Prompt
- The Sound of One Hand Typing for Writer’s Workshop