Celebrate International Coffee Day with Cafe2U!

It’s International Coffee Day, and what better way to celebrate than with a freshly brewed cup from Cafe2U? But first, let’s take a quick look at how this global celebration of coffee came to be and why we all love it so much!

The Origins of International Coffee Day

International Coffee Day was officially launched in 2015 by the International Coffee Organization (ICO). It’s celebrated on 1st October each year, recognising not only the joy coffee brings to millions but also the farmers, roasters and baristas who make it all possible. The day is also a chance to raise awareness of the need for fair trade and sustainable coffee practices around the world.

Coffee by the Numbers: How Much Do We Really Drink?

It’s no secret that coffee is one of the world’s favourite drinks - whether it’s that early-morning flat white, a lunchtime espresso or an afternoon cappuccino. Globally, we consume around 2 billion cups of coffee every single day and here in the UK, we’re drinking around 98 million cups daily - that’s a lot of caffeine!

Why We Love Coffee

Coffee doesn’t just taste great, it has some great benefits too. It’s been shown to help improve concentration, boost energy levels and it's packed with antioxidants that are good for your overall health. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s the perfect excuse for a break - whether you’re catching up with friends, getting through the workday or just need five minutes to yourself. 

Celebrate with Cafe2U

This International Coffee Day, why not enjoy a fresh cup of barista-quality coffee, delivered straight to you by Cafe2U? 

With our fleet of mobile coffee vans, we bring your favourite brew directly to your door - whether you're at work, at home or somewhere in between.

To get your coffee fix, simply find your nearest van and let us deliver the perfect cup to you!

How To Take Part In The World's Biggest Coffee Morning!

It’s nearly that time of year again when communities come together over coffee and cake to support an incredible cause - Macmillan Cancer Support’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning!

This beloved annual event helps raise essential funds to support people living with cancer and the official date for this year’s Coffee Morning is Friday, 27th September 2024, but don’t worry - you can host your event whenever it suits you​!

How to Take Part

Getting involved couldn’t be easier! Simply sign up on the Macmillan Coffee Morning website to receive your free fundraising kit. The kit includes everything you need to make your coffee morning a success - bunting, balloons, a collection box and more. 

Once you’ve signed up, it’s time to start planning your event. Whether it’s a gathering in your home, a community hall or even in your garden or driveway, the choice is yours. Stock up on coffee, tea, and baked goods (or whatever treats you fancy!) and invite your friends, family and neighbours to join you. Every donation counts and, after the event, all you have to do is send the money you’ve raised to Macmillan to help fund their vital services.

Why Take Part?

The funds raised by the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning help Macmillan Cancer Support provide care for people affected by cancer. This includes funding nurses, support lines, counselling and more​. With cancer touching so many lives, this event provides an easy yet powerful way for anyone to make a difference. Last year, Macmillan raised over £1.2 million from coffee mornings across the UK and the aim is to surpass that this year​.

How Cafe2U Can Help

If you’re hosting a Coffee Morning and want to make it extra special, why not let Cafe2U lend a hand?

Our mobile coffee vans can bring high-quality coffee right to your event, along with a range of other hot drinks and snacks. Our friendly baristas take the pressure off you, allowing you to focus on what matters most - raising money for Macmillan and spending quality time with your guests.

You can find your nearest Cafe2U van here.

So, whether you’re planning a big community bash or a small, cosy coffee break with friends, join the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning and make a real difference in the fight against cancer!

Happiness At Work Week 2024.

In the UK, working 40 hours per week is a common practice and with so much of our time being spent at work, it's important that we're happy while we're there.

For employers, this means doing everything they can to keep morale among their employees as high as possible, as having happy workers leads to more creativity and productivity in the workplace. With every worker having different wants and needs, however, this is easier said than done. 

Fortunately, September 23rd-27th is the International Week of Happiness at Work, a week-long event designed to spread happiness among employees the world over. So what are some of the most effective ways to improve morale among employees? We take a look.

Prioritise work-life balance.

Employees’ work-life balance plays a big role in their happiness at work. By allowing people greater balance and flexibility between their work commitments and their family and personal lives, they will be less stressed and much happier.

To improve the work-life balance of their employees, employers can:

• Offer flexible working options and allow workers to work remotely where appropriate.

• Encourage them to take breaks and disconnect.

• Conduct regular reviews of employees’ workloads to ensure they're not trying to do too much at once.

• Increase support options for parents.

Build a positive work environment.

Positive work environments constantly come up as one of the most desirable factors for workers so building a positive work environment that excites employees will make them happy to come to work and less likely to quit.

The keys to building a positive work environment are transparency and open dialogue as these ensure employees can discuss anything, preventing issues from being bottled up and negative feelings from thriving. They also stop employees from feeling the need to compete with each other and instead increase the likelihood of them encouraging and uplifting each other.

Another easy way to make the workplace a positive environment is to smile more! Smiling is a sign of positivity and one of the easiest ways to convey happiness and positive energy. And, of course, happiness is contagious, so smiling will make others happier too!

Reward hard work and celebrate successes.

Employees feel happy when they receive praise for their hard work and their efforts are recognised, so make time to reward noteworthy achievements by:

• Taking employees out for a meal or to take part in activities like bowling, either after work or during working hours.

• Encouraging managers to hand out positive feedback.

• Bringing treats into the office.

However, acknowledging an employee's hard work or achievement doesn't have to be a grand gesture. One of the simplest and most gratefully-received rewards is a simple 'thank you'. Saying 'thank you' can go a long way - something employers often forget.

Ultimately, recognising employees for their efforts plays a significant role in how employees perceive their workplace and how they feel about their work.

Get them some coffee!

As well as being scientifically proven to increase wellbeing, brighten your mood and make you feel happier, coffee also helps build work relationships by giving employees the perfect opportunity to interact with each other over a coffee break, creating a happier work environment in the process.

Coffee is also high in antioxidants which are good for your body and help reduce the risk of a host of ailments including cancer, strokes and diabetes.

Why not have great coffee delivered to your work?

Whatever you do during International Happiness at Work Week 2024, ensuring there is plenty of coffee to go around your employees and colleagues is an excellent way to kick things off. 

At Cafe2U, our mobile cafes are available to bring our top quality coffees to offices all over the UK and you can find your nearest one here.

Autumn Drink Recipes to Warm Your Day.

As the crisp autumn air rolls in, there’s nothing better than warming up with a delicious seasonal drink. 

At Cafe2U, we're getting ready to launch our autumn drink range, which promises to boast cosy flavours and heart - and hand! - warming results, with flavours like spiced cinnamon, caramel and pumpkin spice to the fore!

So whether you're after a Pumpkin Spice Latte or a decadent Maple Cinnamon Macchiato, here are some of our favourite autumn drinks and how to make them!

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso

• 200ml steamed milk

• 2 tbsp pumpkin spice syrup

• Whipped cream

• Cinnamon for garnish

Instructions:
Brew your espresso and stir in the pumpkin spice syrup. Add steamed milk and finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.

2. Caramel Apple Cider

Ingredients:

• 250ml fresh apple cider

• 2 tbsp caramel syrup

• Whipped cream

• Cinnamon stick

Instructions:
Heat the apple cider in a saucepan, stirring in the caramel syrup until combined. Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream, adding a cinnamon stick for an extra autumnal touch.

3. Spiced Mocha Latte

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder

• 200ml steamed milk

• Pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg

• Whipped cream

Instructions:
Mix cocoa powder with cinnamon and nutmeg in a mug, brew your espresso over the mixture, then stir in the steamed milk. Top with whipped cream for a delightful, spiced finish.

4. Chai Tea Latte

Ingredients:

• 150ml chai tea concentrate

• 150ml steamed milk

• Honey to taste

• Ground cinnamon for garnish

Instructions:
Heat the chai tea concentrate and milk together, sweeten with honey, and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a soothing drink.

5. Maple Cinnamon  Macchiato

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso

• 200ml steamed milk

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• Pinch of cinnamon

Instructions:
Brew the espresso and mix in the maple syrup. Add the steamed milk, then sprinkle cinnamon on top for a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Happy autumn from Cafe2U!

These autumn recipes will add warmth to your day, whether you’re enjoying them at home or grabbing a cup from your local Cafe2U van.

Each drink is designed to reflect the comforting flavours of the season, making it easy to embrace the cooler weather with a smile. Enjoy, and don’t forget to check out our mobile vans for more autumnal treats!

The Cafe2U Guide to Breakfast Bowls.

Popular wisdom has it that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and, with approximately 89% of the UK enjoying it every morning, it's clear that the old adage is still true.

What has changed is what we're eating. Thanks to the rise of cafes serving healthy, vibrant breakfasts inspired by Australia and New Zealand, 'breakfast bowls' have become one of the most popular breakfast options, both outside the home and in our own kitchens and especially during the summer months.

Bursting with colour, breakfast bowls allow you to start your day with superfoods (nutrient-rich foods that benefit your health and wellbeing) such as kale, fresh fruit, berries, granola and quinoa. The idea is to deliver a meal that is tasty, healthy and quick to make. 

With summer beginning to draw to an end, here are some of our favourites for you to try at home while the sun's still shining!

Gluten free peanut butter and fruit quinoa.

This delicious breakfast quinoa makes four servings of just 290 calories each that look amazing, taste even better and will keep you energised until lunchtime.

To make this recipe, you will need:

• 2 cups of water

• 1 cup of quinoa

• ¼ cup of apple juice

• 3 tablespoons reduced fat peanut butter

• 1 banana, chopped

• 1 small handful of strawberries or raspberries

• 4 teaspoons unsalted peanuts

Combine the quinoa and water in a saucepan, bring to the boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, then cook, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from the heat, then stir in the apple juice and peanut butter until combined. Stir in the banana.

Next, divide the mixture among four bowls and top with some of the strawberries/raspberries and peanuts. And enjoy!

Tropical Smoothie Bowl.

Bring some sunshine to your kitchen table with this sweet, tropical, vegan blend that's packed with vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe, you will need: 

• 1 small mango, cut into chunks

• 200g pineapple, cut into chunks

• 2 bananas

• 2 tbsp coconut yoghurt (not coconut-flavoured yoghurt)

• 150ml coconut drinking milk

• 2 passion fruits

• handful of blueberries

• 2 tbsp coconut flakes

• mint leaves

Put the mango, pineapple, bananas, yoghurt and coconut milk in a blender, then blitz until smooth. Pour into two bowls and top with the passion fruit, blueberries, coconut flakes and mint leaves just before serving.

Vanilla-almond chia breakfast bowl.

This bowl combines seeds, nuts, fruit and oats for a fibre-packed meal that will keep you fuller for longer.

To make this recipe, you will need: 

• 50g jumbo porridge oats

• 200ml unsweetened almond milk 

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp low-fat natural yoghurt

• 25g chia seeds

• 150g of blueberries

• 25g flaked almonds

• clear honey

Mix the oats, almond milk, vanilla extract, yoghurt and chia seeds in a bowl and set aside for 20 minutes or until the oats have softened. Stir through half the blueberries, divide the mixture between two bowls and top with the remaining berries, almonds and honey (to taste).

Partner your bowl with the right coffee.
Whichever breakfast bowl you decide to try, a cup of nutrient-packed coffee makes the perfect accompaniment and will help raise your energy levels further still. Find your favourite coffee at your nearest Cafe2U van here!

Afternoon Tea Week 2024.

Taking place from August 12th - 18th, Afternoon Tea Week is a typically-English celebration of the joys of getting together with friends and family for a hot drink, a bite to eat and a good old chat

Originally designed to promote afternoon tea by encouraging cafes, restaurants and hotels to offer discounts and special offers to entice as many people as possible to join in the fun, Afternoon Tea Week has since morphed into something even larger, with many people choosing to throw their own events.

So if you fancy playing host this year, what should you serve? Read on to find out!

What should I serve?

Once you've set a date and time and sent invitations to your nearest and dearest, it's time to decide what to serve.

While the beauty of being the host is that you can serve whatever you want, you probably won't want to stray too far from a traditional afternoon tea menu, so offer your guests a selection of teas for starters. English breakfast is a must-have but you should also consider Earl Grey, camomile, chai and fruit teas as well. Coffee options are certain to be well received too, while having some hot chocolate available for those with a sweet tooth won't hurt either.

Aside from remembering to stock up on milk and sugar, and ensuring your mugs/cups/fine china is all clean, the only other thing you need to worry about now is what treats to serve. Scones and Victoria sponge cake are your classic options here… so here's how to make them!

Fruit scones.

Served with jam and clotted cream, these babies go perfectly with any and all hot drinks!

Ingredients.

To make eight fruit scones, you will need:

• 350g self-raising flour, plus more for dusting

• ¼ tsp salt

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 85g butter, cut into cubes

• 3 tbsp caster sugar

• 175ml milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• squeeze of lemon juice

• 100g sultanas

• beaten egg to glaze

• jam and clotted cream, to serve

Begin by heating your oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Next, tip the flour into a large bowl with the salt and baking powder, then mix. Add the butter, then rub in with your fingers until the mix looks like fine crumbs. Stir in the sugar.

Put the milk into a jug and heat in the microwave for about 30 secs until warm, but not hot. Add the vanilla and lemon juice, then set aside for a moment. Put a baking sheet in the oven.

Make a well in the dry mix, then add the liquid and sultanas and combine with a cutlery knife, then scatter some flour onto a work surface and tip the dough out. Dredge the dough and your hands with a little more flour, then fold the dough over two or three times until smoother. Pat into a round about 4cm deep.

Take a 5cm cutter and dip it into some flour. Plunge into the dough, then repeat until you have four scones. You may need to press what’s left of the dough back into a round to cut out four more.

Brush the tops with beaten egg, then carefully place onto the hot baking tray. Bake for 10 mins until risen and golden on the top. Serve warm with jam, clotted cream and a hot drink!

Victoria Sponge Cake.

Delicious, traditional and easy to make, Victoria sponges are an afternoon tea staple!

Ingredients.

To make a Victoria sponge cake, you will need:

• 200g caster sugar

• 200g softened butter

• 4 eggs, beaten

• 200g self-raising flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 2 tbsp milk

For the filling, you will need:

• 100g butter, softened

• 140g icing sugar, sifted

• vanilla extract

• half a 340g jar good-quality strawberry jam

• icing sugar, to decorate

Heat your oven to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5. Butter two 20cm sandwich tins and line with non-stick baking paper.

In a large bowl, beat 200g caster sugar, 200g softened butter, 4 beaten eggs, 200g self-raising flour, 1 tsp baking powder and 2 tbsp milk together until you have a smooth, soft batter.

Divide the mixture between the tins, then smooth the surfaces with a spatula. Bake for about 20 mins until golden and the cake springs back when pressed, then turn onto a cooling rack and leave to cool completely.

To make the filling, beat the 100g softened butter until smooth and creamy, then gradually beat in 140g sifted icing sugar and a drop of vanilla extract. Spread the buttercream over the bottom of one of the sponges. Top it with 170g strawberry jam and sandwich the second sponge on top. Dust with a little icing sugar, then serve. 

We can help you throw a tea party to remember!

If you'd like some top quality coffee to go with your tea party bakes, contact your local Cafe2U van here and we'll deliver some straight to your door!

Setting Your Franchise Up For Success.

The Paris Olympics are in full swing and, with Team GB currently sitting a respectable sixth in the medal table, we've taken a look at what we can learn from its sporting success and how it can be applied to our business to ensure we stay ahead of the competition.

Teamwork.

If you've listened to the winning Olympians' post-event interviews, you will have noticed that almost all of them emphasise the importance of teamwork, with their coaches, trainers, nutritionists and families often receiving special praise. What you won't have heard is an athlete claiming their success was down to them and them alone.

At Cafe2U, we know that, just like athletes, our franchisees can't succeed without support, so, in addition to providing them with a support network to cheer them on, coach them and challenge them, we also provide them with a comprehensive four-week training course to ensure they have the skills necessary to hit the road as a qualified mobile coffee business owner. From barista training to business processes training, our Franchise Development Managers are always there to help our franchisees reach the top of the coffee podium.

Confidence.

Just like athletes need to believe in their own abilities, entrepreneurs must be bullish about their chances of becoming the best. At Cafe2U, we assess potential franchisees to ensure our business is right for them, so when they start up their mobile coffee business, they can be confident that we have faith in them and will be there to cheer them on, no matter what.

Passion.

Why do athletes limit their calorie intakes and put their bodies through stress, pain and the risk of injury? Why are they constantly looking for ways to improve performance? Because they're passionate about what they do and they want to be the best at it.

The same is true of successful entrepreneurs. Setting up your own business is hard, stressful and demanding, and inevitably involves encountering obstacles. If you're not passionate about the thing you do, you won't be motivated to overcome those obstacles and you'll fail.

Fortunately, many people are incredibly passionate about coffee, including us. From our unique blend, which is sourced from some of the finest growing regions in the world and roasted by small batch coffee roasters, to the expertise provided by our barista trainer, passion goes into every cup of coffee you'll sell. 

Practice, evolve, improve.

In addition to determination, drive and focus, practice is the most important weapon in an athlete's armour, and the same is true of Cafe2U franchisees. 

Practice enables you to learn and expand your skill set, two abilities that are vital for any successful businessperson. Cafe2U has been on the road for more than 20 years and, although we know the coffee industry like the back of our hand, we're constantly creating new avenues for growth and keeping up to date with new trends so we can ensure our franchisees have the latest equipment and are familiar with any new changes in the industry. Our weekly newsletter also communicates new insights to our franchisees that help boost their bottom lines, whether it's news about new discounts that have been negotiated or ways to source weekend events. 

We believe there's no finishing line when it comes to improvement.

If you’re thinking about becoming a Cafe2U franchisee, find out more about the process here.

National Ice Cream Day: Coffee and Ice Cream Pairings To Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth!

Taking place on the third Sunday of July every year, National Ice Cream Day is fast approaching… and not a moment too soon, with a spot of hot, dry weather currently forecast for the coming days.

With more appropriate seasonal weather due to arrive, we've decided to combine two of our favourite treats - coffee and ice cream - and present you with our guide on how to perfectly pair one with the other.

Let's get started!

Affogato.

A nice easy one to start. A classic summer dessert that's easy to make, affogatos are perfect for lovers of espresso and vanilla ice cream.

Simply spoon two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a bowl, then pour over a freshly brewed cup of dark-roast espresso and, err, that's it! 

Bitter, sweet, hot, cold - affogato has it all! You can even add some crunch to yours by crushing a couple of your favourite biscuits (amaretti or biscotti work a treat!) and sprinkling them on top.

Coffee milkshake.

A milkshake for adults? Sign us up!

Ingredients.

To make four coffee milkshakes, you will need:

• 85g plain chocolate, 70% or 80%

• 1 tbsp coffee granules

• 700ml milk

• 4 scoops vanilla ice cream, plus extra to serve (optional)

First, roughly chop 75g of chocolate and place in a large jug with the coffee granules. Next, bring 300ml of the milk just to the boil, then pour over the chocolate and coffee mix, stirring to melt. Once melted, cool.

Tip the cooled milk into a blender with the ice cream and remaining milk. Blitz until blended, then pour into four glasses. Add an extra scoop of ice cream to each, if you like, then grate a little of the remaining chocolate on top to serve.

Creamy, rich, chocolatey and perfect for lazy summer evenings, everyone should commit this recipe to memory!

Send us your suggestions!

Those are just a couple of ways you can celebrate National Ice Cream Day - let us know how you like to incorporate ice cream into your coffee on our social channels!

National Picnic Month.

With summer now under way (allegedly…) and National Picnic Month now upon us too, it's time to start making plans for that most British of summer traditions - going to a green open space to eat lunch outdoors, on a blanket!

But what constitutes the perfect picnic experience and how can you make sure yours is as enjoyable as possible? We take a look.

Food and drink.

Food and drink is central to any picnic and the key thing to remember here is: keep it simple. Classic selections like sausage rolls, pork pies, Scotch eggs, sandwiches and pre-made salads should form the basis of your picnic - along with sweet treats like chocolate rolls or Viennese Whirls - as all are tasty, small, inexpensive and/or easy to make. 

They're also easily transportable in picnic baskets, tupperware boxes or Mason jars, all of which will also help keep spillages to a minimum.

Simplicity is key when it comes to drinks too. Don't be tempted to take multiple exotic ingredients so you can make your own cocktails; instead, stick to a small selection of cordials, plenty of water and a fizzy option like lemonade or ginger ale. Unless you know for sure the weather is going to be hot, it's worth taking a thermos or two of tea or hot chocolate as well.

If you want to take coffee with you on your picnic - and who wouldn't? - the best way to ensure you have a wide selection of barista-quality brews available is to contact your nearest Cafe2U van here and let us bring some straight to your blanket!

Keep an eye on the weather.

Although the UK's weather is always susceptible to changing at the drop of a hat, there's no excuse for not checking the forecast in the lead up to your picnic so that you can at least try to plan accordingly.

If there's a chance of rain, take umbrellas and waterproofs; if it's going to be hot, don't forget the sunblock and wide-brimmed hats!

Take cushions and pillows.

There's no need to lug heavy tables and chairs around on a picnic - simply chuck some throw pillows and old cushions in your car boot and you'll be able to fashion everyone a spot where they can relax comfortably in no time.

Don't forget utensils.

Many picnics have come undone due to a lack of cutlery, so remember to take plenty of everything, including napkins. You could even take an old plant pot, vase, jug or small bucket to use as a practical utensil holder!

Remember to take a chopping board.

Especially useful when kids are present, chopping boards are as great for cutting food on as they are for serving food off. Just remember to also pack wipes or paper towels so you can clean it afterwards!

Pick a good spot.

Picnics should be relaxing so do some research before heading off and try to find a green location that has plenty of shade and isn't right next to a busy road. If you'll have kids with you, choosing somewhere with plenty of open space or that is close to a play area is a good idea too.

Clean up when you're finished.

Nobody likes litter - or litterers - so take a couple of bin bags with you, chuck all your rubbish in them before you leave and place them in public bins or take them with you to dispose of when you get home.

No coffee, no picnic!
If you'd like us to take care of your picnic's coffee requirements, you can contact us here.

Plastic Free July.

Plastic Free July is all about refusing to use single-use plastics - items made from plastic that are only used once before being thrown away.

The problem with the 'plastic waste' associated with single use plastics is that it doesn't break down, it just breaks up into smaller pieces, producing toxic chemicals that are detrimental to wildlife and the environment.

Plastic Free July also helps raise awareness of this issue and encourages people all over the world to reduce the amount of single-use plastics they use.

To celebrate, we're taking a look at the plastic-free and environmentally-friendly practices we've adopted at Cafe2U.

No plastic straws!

We've replaced plastic straws with biodegradable paper alternatives to reduce our carbon footprint.

Like disposable coffee cups, plastic straws can't be reused and usually end up in landfill. By using recyclable paper straws instead, consumers can play their part in reducing the amount that literally ends up going up in smoke.

Compostable paper cups.

Available from your local Cafe2U van, our compostable cups are biodegradable, so they can be composted or recycled, reducing waste and ensuring fewer items are sent to landfill. With people in the UK drinking approximately 95 million cups of coffee every day, we need to convince consumers to move away from single use cups as soon as possible.

We also offer reusable cups… and even give them away free with certain purchases every once in a while! Contact your nearest Cafe2U van here to find out more!

Coffee grounds recycling scheme.

Periodically, we also give customers the opportunity to take our used coffee grounds away with them absolutely free.

Normally, used coffee grounds are thrown in the bin, where they end up as landfill or in an incinerator. However, neither option is good for the environment, which is why we want to let more people know that they can also be recycled, reducing harmful greenhouse gases and giving your latte a second life.

Used coffee grounds have a number of uses, including:

1. repelling insects. Simply put the used grounds in a bowl outside and burn them like incense. The grounds are very potent and will drive pests away in no time.

2. making a useful fertiliser. Sprinkling used grounds - which are packed with key nutrients - on the soil surrounding your plants will encourage them to grow quicker.

3. helping compost heaps. By adding some used grounds to your compost heap, you'll improve its structure and attract worms, which speed up the process by turning food scraps into compost.

4. eliminating smells. A handful of used coffee grounds in your fridge will absorb food odours and ensure your meals taste like they should.

5. cleaning your pans. A couple of spoonfuls of used coffee grounds are abrasive enough to clean the dirtiest of pans - just apply the grounds to a cloth and get scrubbing! Remember to check a small area of the pan first to make sure the grounds don't stain the surface.

Emission-free deliveries.

If you get your coffee delivered to your home or workplace, make sure you use a company that only uses electric vehicles - like us! 

Yep, we were the first mobile coffee company in the world to introduce a fleet of all-electric, totally emissions-free coffee vans. By changing the fleet to electric power, we estimate we'll save a whopping 12,672g of CO2 per year!

We need your help!

Supporting efforts to reduce plastic waste is easy - simply pick up a reusable or compostable cup next time you visit your local Cafe2U van and, if you could use some, take some of our used grounds away with you. You'll be helping us help the planet!

Find your nearest Cafe2U van here.

Tips For Starting Your Own Cafe2U Franchise.

Well over half a million people in the UK work in the franchising industry - circa 620,000 - and, in 2023, an astonishing 97% of franchisees turned a profit. Consequently, the number of people employed in the industry is expected to swell even further over the coming months.

If you're considering starting your own Cafe2U franchise, it's important to remember that there's a lot more to becoming successful than just identifying an opportunity you like the look of and handing over your money. Here are a few things to consider before you take the plunge.

Be passionate about your business.

This may seem obvious but if you're not really interested in the coffee industry, walk away. Not only will your customers and clients quickly pick up on your lack of enthusiasm, resulting in reputational damage to your business, but you're also more likely to lose interest in it in the long-term, which could conceivably end up costing you a lot of money.

On the flip side, if you're truly interested in Cafe2U, your energy and passion for it will naturally come through, resulting in you offering better service to your customers.

While the predicted earnings and the work/life balance on offer are important factors to take into account, if they're the only things that interest you, it's time to think again.

Customer service is vital.

When you launch your own franchise, you ideally want it to gain a good reputation, fast. However, in the age of social media and online reviews, poor feedback from customers can quickly break a business, so you need to remain friendly, knowledgeable and professional at all times.

If you can achieve this, not only will your customers keep coming back, improving your customer retention rates, it will also increase the chances of them singing your praises to their friends and colleagues. There's nothing better than free publicity, especially when it's positive!

Marketing and advertising are important too!

Speaking of publicity, you'll need to spread the word about your new franchise before it launches - to build interest - and once it has launched, to ensure people know that you're there and what you have to offer.

Establishing a social media presence on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram is a must, and putting up posters, making and delivering flyers and advertising in local newspapers are all effective ways of promoting your franchise too. 

Cafe2U franchises are available.

Not only are they available, they're one of the best franchise options for 2024! In addition to a Mercedes-Benz Vito premium van and an exclusive area in which to operate, all our new franchisees receive all the training and equipment necessary to get their businesses off the ground. We also supply them with all the ongoing support and marketing advice they need too.

If you're interested in investing in a Cafe2U franchise, we can assist in arranging finance for you and your personal investment can be as little as £15,000. For more information, click here.

Summer Sips: Cool Coffee Creations to Beat the Heat.

Summer is officially here!!

Depending on whereabouts in the UK you are, this may seem unbelievable but, trust us, June 20th marks the start of summer (astrologically speaking, at least…). And when the sun comes out and temperature starts to rise, caffeine lovers often find themselves facing a conundrum - what should I drink when it's too hot for coffee?

The answer, of course, is iced coffee! Cool, refreshing and delicious, iced coffee's popularity has grown steadily in recent years and the drink is now a summertime staple throughout the UK. 

At Cafe2U, we offer a seasonal range of summery drinks, designed specifically with hot days in mind. This year, your local Cafe2U van will be offering:

• Sparkling raspberry and pomegranate lemonade

• Cherry or raspberry craft soda

• Peach or lemon iced tea

• Vanilla frappe, and

• Any of our regular coffees served over ice!

Iced coffee is also easy to make and tailor to your own tastes, so refill your ice tray and we'll explain how to make one at home!

Basic iced coffee.

Iced coffee can either be poured hot over ice or served already chilled. If you're attempting the latter, start by making a cup of strong black coffee, then allow it to go completely cold. Pour it into a blender, add 60ml of milk, two handfuls of ice and your favourite-flavoured syrup - if using - then blend until smooth and serve in a tall glass.

If you usually add sugar to your brew, remember it doesn't dissolve easily in cold liquids, so you'll need to add it to the coffee before it cools or swap it for a sugary syrup. And don't worry about it being too strong as the ice will dilute and weaken the coffee!

Coffee lemonade.

If there's a drink that symbolises summer better than lemonade, we've yet to try it. Combining it with a hit of caffeine results in a refreshing drink you'll want to make every time the sun's out.

Making coffee lemonade couldn't be simpler. Just combine cold black coffee, 120ml of orange juice, 80ml of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 80ml of honey and two handfuls of ice cubes in a blender and blend until smooth. Serve in a tall glass half filled with more ice cubes and enjoy!

The sweet treat.

When the first ingredient is ice cream, you know you're onto a winner! Put a scoop of your favourite ice cream into a tall glass, cover it with cold black coffee, add another scoop of ice cream, then finish with a dash of sparkling water to make the whole thing fizz. 

For an even greater sugar fix, thread your favourite jelly or gummy sweets onto a toothpick and lay across the mouth of the glass.

Peanut butter iced coffee.

OK, peanut butter isn't traditionally associated with summer, but trust us, this rich, creamy recipe will quench your thirst and cool you down in no time!

To make, simply combine peanut butter, Nutella and cream in a saucepan, then heat gently while whisking until the mixture is melted and smooth. Leave it to cool in the fridge, then pour into a blender alongside black coffee and ice and blitz until foamy. 

Embrace summer with Cafe2U!
At Cafe2U, we love experimenting with new flavours and ingredients. Ask your nearest Cafe2U mobile barista about our summer range today!

Coffee Gifts For Father's Day.

This Sunday, June 16th, is Father's Day, a day on which we celebrate and show our appreciation for the men who raised us.

If you're like us, you've probably asked your dad if there's anything he'd like for Father's Day over the last few weeks.

If your dad is anything like our dads, he probably said either:

a) "I'll have a think and let you know" (but didn't), or

b) "There's nothing I really want - just save your money."

Because neither of these answers is helpful in the slightest (hint: NEVER fall into the 'don't worry about getting me a present' trap, regardless of who says it!), we've put our heads together to come up with a list of cracking coffee-themed gifts for your old man this Father's Day. Read on to find out more!

1. Hand Grinder.

Grinding your beans while they're still fresh significantly enhances the overall brewing experience but, unfortunately, coffee grinders can often be pricey.

If you're searching for an affordable gift, this small hand grinder is super compact, provides consistent performance every time and is easy on the wallet. What’s not to love?!

2. Portable Coffee Maker.

This coffee maker is a versatile and portable device that uses a rapid, total immersion brewing process to produce smooth, rich coffee in minutes. Easy to use, it ensures you can brew excellent coffee anywhere with ease. A hugely popular product, this is a gift that's sure to be well received!

3. One Touch Coffee Maker.

If your dad values quantity AND quality, the Bonavita One Touch 8 Cup Coffee Maker is a must-have, brewing up to 1.3 litres of perfectly brewed coffee at the touch of a button in just a few minutes. 

And, as a Specialty Coffee Association approved brewer, it meets Gold standards in brewing performance. Enjoying great-tasting coffee has never been so easy or so quick.

4. Portable Mug.

If you're searching for a coffee mug for Father’s Day, look no further than this popular Fellow Carter Move Mug. 

A sleek, vacuum-insulated travel mug, it keeps drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for 24. Its ceramic interior ensures a pure taste, while the leak-proof seal and 360-degree lid make it ideal for on-the-go use. It's perfect for dads who are always on the move!

5. Milk Pitcher.

If it's style and practicality you're after, this Rhino Pro Milk Pitcher is an excellent choice. With its sleek stainless steel design, sturdy handle and precision spout, it’s perfect for creating beautiful latte art.

Whether your dad is a coffee connoisseur or simply enjoys a perfectly frothed cappuccino, the Rhino Milk Pitcher is an ideal gift to elevate his coffee experience.

6. Prepaid Cafe2U Card.

If your dad is a regular Cafe2U customer, make his next few visits free by picking him up one of our prepaid gift cards. If you pre-pay for five coffees, you'll get the sixth one free!

Get in touch with your nearest Cafe2U barista here.

Happy Father's Day from Cafe2U!

Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there, we hope you all have a great day. And don't worry, our Cafe2U vans will be on the road as usual to help you celebrate if you need us!

How To Make A Barbecue Coffee Rub.

The imminent arrival of summer coupled with the long evenings getting warmer can mean only one thing: it's National Barbecue Week!

Running from June 3rd - 9th, National Barbecue Week has been celebrated by hungry Brits since its inception in 1997. A lot's changed in the nation's approach to barbies in the last 24 years, with the types of foods being prepared high on that list. Burgers, sausages and kebabs will always be favourites but veggies, meat-free alternatives and unusual ingredients have all become commonplace at your average garden cook-out. 

One ingredient that continues to be overlooked, however, is coffee.

Although some may say that coffee and smoky meats aren't exactly obvious bed fellows, we beg to differ. And after you've tried our incredible Barbecue Coffee Rub recipe, we think you'll agree!

What Is A Rub?

A rub is a mixture of spices and/or herbs that is applied to meats before cooking to add flavour. Unlike marinades, which need to be left covering food for several hours, rubs season meats quickly and are easy to prepare, making them perfect for impromptu BBQs. They also add texture and help give meats those delicious, dark crusts so beloved by barbie aficionados, especially if cooked at a low heat for a long time.

Why Use Coffee?

The first thing to say is that a coffee-based rub WON'T make your food taste like an espresso. It will, however, add a deep, rich, earthy flavour that enhances the savoury flavours already at play. Because coffee is highly acidic, it will also help tenderize your meat, making it juicier and less chewy.

Barbecue Coffee Rub Recipe.

This rub can be used on any meat but works particularly well with beef. To make the rub, you will need:

• ¼ cup of freshly ground coffee

• Two tablespoons of brown sugar

• Two tablespoons of garlic powder

• Two tablespoons of onion powder

• Two tablespoons of cayenne pepper (this can be omitted if you don't like spicy food)

• Two tablespoons of paprika (normal, sweet or smoked)

• One tablespoon of ground cumin

• One tablespoon of kosher salt

In a bowl, mix the ingredients together thoroughly. If you have one, transfer the rub to a shaker to make it easier to apply. Then pat your meat dry with a paper towel to remove as much moisture from its surface as possible.

If you want, you can add a binding agent - be creative here. We love smothering beef, lamb or pork in French’s mustard or even a generous helping of Worcestershire Sauce! Next, apply the rub all over the meat. If you don't have a shaker, simply rub it in with your hands. How much you want to use is a personal choice but one tablespoon per pound of meat is a good rule of thumb. If in doubt, be generous!

Although the rub can be applied just before cooking, the longer it sits on the meat, the more tender and flavourful it will become. Try to apply the rub at least an hour before cooking; if possible, do it the day before.

Put the rubbed meat on a plate, cover it with cling film or tin foil and place it in the fridge until you're ready to cook. Any leftover rub can be stored in an airtight container and left in the fridge for as long as six months.

Finally, barbecue or smoke the meat as usual but remember not to use any oil as it will spoil the crust.

What Coffee Should I Use?

Again, this really comes down to personal preference but, as a rule, dark roasts give a more robust flavour, whereas light roasts are more subtle.

If possible, use freshly ground coffee as it tenderizes the meat quicker and more effectively than beans which aren't freshly ground. Instant/pre-ground coffee granules also work well.

If you do opt for freshly ground coffee, use a medium grind. Finely ground coffee is not a good idea as it is smaller than most of the other rub ingredients, so it will coat the meat first and prevent the other flavours from coming through. Coarse ground coffee, on the other hand, is too big and won't stick efficiently to the meat.

So there you have it. When it's time to impress the guests at your next BBQ, just bring out the coffee!

At Cafe2U, we offer a wide range of quality bagged coffee beans - and our baristas will be happy to grind it for you to use - so find your nearest van here and book a delivery today.

Euro 2024 - How Do Other European Nations Like Their Coffee?

In England, the humble latte is the most popular type of coffee but there are an almost infinite number of ways the drink can be enjoyed.

Now the Euro 2024 football tournament is nearly underway, what better time to take a look at some of the ways coffee is consumed by our European neighbours?

Italy.

As the world capital of coffee, Italy knows a thing or two about drinking the black stuff. Espressos are the most popular option, with Italians typically drinking multiple cups each day.

Rich and thick, espressos are brewed by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water through finely ground coffee beans and, in Italy, are commonly served with a slice of lemon to bring out their sweeter flavours. 

Despite increasing your metabolism, helping you burn calories faster and being delicious, professional athletes are still more likely to opt for water at half-time.

Portugal.

A refreshing twist on a classic, one of the most popular coffees in Portugal is the Mazagran, aka the original iced coffee.

Available in any Portuguese pastelaria worth its salt, Mazagran is a sweetened, cold beverage that typically consists of espresso and lemon juice. However, the lemon can be replaced with rum for coffee fans in need of an even stronger kick. Ronaldo might not approve.

Turkey.

Turkish coffee, or Türk kahvesi, is prepared using very finely ground coffee beans and is one of the most popular types of coffee in the world due to its seriously high strength.

Simmered in a special brass pot known as a cezve, Turkish coffee is rich and gets its potency from being unfiltered, resulting in a higher concentration of caffeine and a drink that should come with a warning. Not for the faint-hearted.

Spain.

Among the best looking of all coffees, Spanish cafe bombon coffees are a sweet-toothed coffee lover's dream.

Sugary and so thick you can chew them, cafe bombons are equal parts black coffee and sweetened, condensed milk, served in a glass in order to appeal to the eyes as much as the taste buds. 

By slowly adding the milk to the coffee, the milk sinks to the bottom of the glass and separates, resulting in a coffee in two distinct, irresistible layers. Classy.

Cafe2U FC.

Whichever type of coffee you prefer, we're confident you'll find something to love among our range of quality Cafe2U coffees. Find your nearest van here and place an order today!

Franchisee FAQs.

According to the most recent report from industry expert Franchise Supermarket, 621,000 people in the UK are employed within the franchising industry, with 97% of franchisee-run businesses turning a profit, indicating that investing in a franchise remains an excellent choice for anyone looking for a career change in 2024.

At Cafe2U, we have a network of circa 100 franchise partners, so we know that deciding to become a franchisee is a big decision, and that those thinking of taking the plunge will have lots of questions to ask.

For anyone thinking of investing in a franchise like ours this year, these are some of the ones we get asked the most!

How much control will I have over my business?

People in the UK are increasingly on the lookout for jobs that offer them the opportunity to take control of their own work destiny and becoming a franchisee does exactly that.

Franchisees are essentially self-employed so, even though you become a Cafe2U partner, you still have the autonomy to make your own decisions on a huge variety of issues, including where, when and for how long you work each week, giving you a flexible job that fits in with your lifestyle and improves your work/life balance. With working from home now the 'new normal', running a business that can adapt to different locations and settings is a great idea and one that is likely to see the franchising industry continue to flourish over the coming months.

If you've ever dreamed of being your own boss, becoming a franchisee will make that dream come true.

How long does becoming a franchisee take?

While results may vary, becoming a franchisee is essentially a simple process that involves an interview between the franchisor and franchisee to ensure suitability, the drawing up and signing of a contract, buying into the franchise and then training for the new role, which may only take a few weeks. After that, you're up and running!

If you want to get a new business off the ground in a hurry, franchising is the answer to your prayers.

How risky is investing in a franchise?

Changing jobs always carries a certain degree of risk but, as we mentioned earlier, the fact that 97% of UK-based franchisees currently run in profit, with fewer than 1% of franchisors closing due to commercial failure, shows that the franchise industry remains a very safe bet for those who choose to join it.

Compare that to the fact that only 40% of new businesses in the UK survive more than three years and it's not hard to see why the industry is so popular.

And the reasons for this are simple. Becoming a franchisee increases your chance of succeeding because your customers are already aware of your brand and its reputation, meaning you have an established customer base that would otherwise take years to build, saving you both time and money on costly promotional activity designed to raise brand awareness.

What is my earning potential?

As we've already mentioned, the franchising industry is a profitable one but 'profitable' could be an understatement. Consistently good performances will see your income increase as a direct result, making your earning potential as big as you make it!

Is a Cafe2U franchise right for you?

If you're interested in becoming the owner of a mobile coffee franchise and a qualified barista operating in your own exclusive area, you can find out more about our franchise opportunities here. 

We'll supply you with everything you need to get your business off the ground, from training and equipment to ongoing support and advice on marketing. What are you waiting for?!

Earth Day 2024.

Earth Day is an annual event designed to celebrate the planet and remind us all of the importance of sustainability and taking care of the natural environment, while also encouraging people to come together and take action for a brighter future.

As a mobile coffee franchise with a fleet of nearly 100 vans, you might think our business would be responsible for more than its fair share of pollution. However, that couldn't be further from the truth. We know how important it is to the planet - not to mention consumers and potential franchisees - to be an environmentally-friendly company and that's why we're on a mission to become the first carbon neutral coffee company in the UK. Here are just a few of the ways we're going about it.

Electric vans.

Our fleet of vehicles is electric and 100% emission-free, meaning we've massively reduced our CO² emissions over the years. Each of our vehicles also features an in-van generator that runs on lithium-ion batteries, so our emissions from in-van generators is zero too. 

Furthermore, our electric vans have minimal moving parts and more effective brakes, so fewer replacement parts need manufacturing, reducing our greenhouse gas emissions even further.

Reusable or compostable cups.

Most disposable coffee cups are thrown away and end up in landfill because they have a thin plastic lining which makes them difficult to process for recycling. Reusable coffee cups, on the other hand, will last for years if properly cared for. Even when they reach the end of their lifecycle, most can then be recycled and some are even made of recycled materials. 

We do our bit by periodically giving away our reusable cups for free with certain purchases and we've set up a recycling scheme for customers who still use disposable cups. We also offer compostable cups which can be composted or recycled, reducing waste and ensuring fewer items are sent to landfill.

Avoiding plastic straws.

Like disposable coffee cups, plastic straws can't be reused and usually end up in landfill, which is why we replaced ours with biodegradable paper alternatives, reducing our carbon footprint even further.

Recycling.

We offer our customers the opportunity to recycle their paper cups to slow the rate at which new disposable cups are produced, as well as a coffee grounds recycling initiative to counteract the 1.8 million tonnes of carbon emissions which are generated by the 500,000 tonnes of coffee waste disposed of in the UK every year. The initiative sees waste coffee grounds being recycled into biofuel pellets to power biomass boilers, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping keep the air cleaner.

Going digital.

These days, we're almost completely paper-free at Cafe2U. All files at head office have been digitised and we've done away with traditional loyalty cards and physical pamphlets in favour of an app which allows our customers to receive news, offers and updates digitally instead, massively reducing the amount of paper we use and helping keep more trees in the ground where they help remove pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO²) from the atmosphere.

Happy Earth Day!
If you're interested in investing in an Earth-friendly franchise like Cafe2U, click here for more information.

Celebrate Easter With Our Choctastic Hot Drink Recipes.

At Cafe2U, we're best known for our barista-grade coffee but there are more strings to our bow than just serving excellent espressos and lovely lattes - we do a mean hot chocolate too!

With that in mind and Easter almost upon us again (hurray!!), now is the perfect time to share some of our favourite recipes for you to try at home. You can thank us later!

Hot chocolate royale

What's better than hot chocolate? Hot chocolate piled high with marshmallows, of course!

Ingredients

To make two mugs, you will need:

• 300ml milk

• 71ml double cream

• 50g chopped chocolate

• Mini marshmallows

All you need to do is pour the milk, double cream and chopped chocolate into a pan, then bring it gently to the boil, whisking until smooth. Serve immediately and top with mini marshmallows and a little grated chocolate.

Gingerbread hot chocolate

Gingerbread may be most commonly associated with autumn or winter but let's be honest, there's never a bad time to enjoy its sweet, slightly peppery taste!

Ingredients

To make two mugs, you will need:

• 300ml milk

• 100ml double cream

• 1 tsp dark brown soft sugar

• 1 orange, zested

• pinch of ground ginger

• pinch of ground cinnamon

• 2 cloves

• 4 drops of vanilla extract

• 100g dark chocolate, chopped

• whipped cream

• 2 mini gingerbread biscuits, crushed

Begin by stirring the milk, cream, sugar, orange zest and spices together in a saucepan, then bring to a simmer over a low heat. Remove from the heat and pour through a sieve into a jug, discarding the clove and orange zest. Pour the milk back into the pan and stir in the vanilla and chocolate until the chocolate has melted and is smooth, returning the pan to a low heat to warm through, if necessary.

Then, simply pour into a heatproof mug, top with whipped cream, add the crushed gingerbread biscuits and serve.

Vegan hot chocolate

Everyone deserves a chocolate-y treat from time to time so this recipe has been designed specifically for those with plant-based diets!

Ingredients

To make two mugs, you will need:

• 500ml oat milk

• 100g vegan dark chocolate, finely chopped, plus a grating to serve

• 1 small cinnamon stick

• 2 bruised cardamom pods

• ½ tbsp maple syrup

• vegan marshmallows

Heat all the ingredients - apart from the marshmallows - in a small pan over a low heat and stir frequently until the chocolate melts. Remove and discard the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods, then divide the hot chocolate between two mugs and top with the marshmallows and an extra grating of chocolate.

Mocha

If you fall into the 'coffee or nothing' category of hot drink lovers, fear not - there's plenty of choccy in this cheeky mocha recipe!

Ingredients

To make two mugs, you will need: 

• 36g ground espresso or 2 espresso pods

• 500ml milk

• 2 tsp drinking chocolate

Begin by making around 70ml espresso using a coffee machine and divide between your two mugs. Add 1 tsp drinking chocolate to each and mix well until smooth.

Next, steam the milk so that it has around 4-6cm of foam on top. Hold the jug so that the spout is about 3-4cm above a mug and pour the milk in steadily. As the volume within the mug increases, bring the jug as close to the surface of the drink as possible whilst aiming into the centre. Once the milk jug is almost touching the surface of the coffee, tilt to speed up the rate of pour. As you accelerate, the milk will hit the back of the cup and start naturally folding in on itself to create a pattern on top!

Happy Easter from Cafe2U!
We hope all our customers have a happy Easter and bank holiday weekend. There's bound to be plenty of chocolate to go around but if you run out of great coffee to enjoy with it, contact your local Cafe2U van here and we'll deliver some direct to your door!

World Poetry Day 2024.

To celebrate World Poetry Day, here are some of our attempts at coffee-themed poems!

Morning Brew.

In dawn's soft light, a ritual begins,

The kettle hums, the grinder spins.

Aromatic whispers fill the air,

As coffee beans release their flair.

A cup of warmth to start the day,

Chasing shadows, driving grey away.

With every sip, a gentle sigh,

As morning's calm begins to fly.

Espresso Symphony.

In the heart of bustling streets,

Amidst the crowd's hurried beats,

A symphony in a tiny cup,

Where time slows down, and worries are supped.

Bold and rich, like midnight's kiss,

Each drop, a moment of bliss.

A dance of flavours on the tongue,

In this espresso, worlds are sung.

Café Serenade.

In the corner of a cosy nook,

Pages turn and thoughts partook.

A melody of whispers rise,

In the haven of coffee's guise.

A refuge from the outside storm,

Where dreams take shape and hearts reform.

With every sip, a verse is spun,

In this café, where souls are won.

Think you can do any better? Send us your attempts via our social channels!

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day With Our Tasty Irish Coffee Recipe.

Known across the world as Saint Patrick's Day, March 17th is the day on which Irish culture and heritage are celebrated in all their glory in commemoration of Saint Patrick, Ireland's foremost patron saint.

Saint Patrick was an Irish bishop who was kidnapped by Irish raiders and forced to work as a shepherd, during which time he found God. Tradition has it that God told Patrick to escape and head to the coast, where a ship would be waiting to take him home to Ireland. Upon his return, Patrick converted thousands of pagan Irish to Christianity, carving out the religious path that Ireland would follow for centuries to come.

Despite his death on March 17th, 461 A.D, his legend continued to grow and, in the 17th century, his death date was made an official Christian feast day observed by the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion and others.

Today, despite only being officially recognised as a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated all over the world. In fact, it's celebrated in more countries than any other national festival, with revellers typically enjoying public parades, traditional Irish music sessions, the wearing of green clothing and, of course, a glass or two of Irish beer, cider or whiskey. 

It's with the latter that we're concerned today.

According to legend, the first Irish coffee was created in the winter of 1943 by Joe Sheridan, a chef at Foynes Port near Limerick. During World War II, as the last port of call for seaplanes east of the Atlantic, Foynes became one of the largest civilian airports in Europe.

One evening, Chef Joe decided to make a warming drink with a kick for a group of weary passengers whose plane had been forced to return to Foynes midway through a journey. Not only did his combination of coffee, cream and Irish whisky go down a storm with the travellers, it went on to become one of the most popular alcoholic drinks of all time and one which is still enjoyed as an indulgent end-of-meal drink today and particularly on St. Patrick's Day.

So how do you make the perfect Irish coffee at home? Let's take a look…

Irish coffee recipe.

The saying goes that on St. Patrick's Day, everyone is Irish. If that's the case, there's no excuse for not giving this recipe a go over the coming days!

Ingredients.

To make an Irish coffee, you will need:

• 2 tbsp double cream

• 150ml freshly brewed black coffee

• 50ml Irish whiskey

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• pinch freshly grated nutmeg

• mint syrup (optional)

Start by lightly whipping the cream until it starts to thicken, then set aside.

Next, pour the hot coffee into a mug then add the whiskey and sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then float the cream on top by pouring it carefully over the back of a spoon held just above the surface of the liquid. Gradually raise the spoon as you pour until the entire layer is floated.

Finally, sprinkle with the nutmeg and serve hot. Add a dash of mint syrup for a green finish!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Our mobile baristas will be on the road as usual this St. Patrick's Day so, if you fancy making an Irish coffee and need some coffee delivering to your doorstep, contact your nearest Cafe2U van here and we'll do the rest. Sláinte!