If you’re not sure where to start, try Medaglia d’Oro or Starbucks VIA Colombia. These tend to convert more coffee snobs than most brands. Instant espresso powder is a different product, meant for baking instead of drinking. [4] X Research source
If you don’t have a kettle, microwave a mug of water before adding the coffee. [5] X Research source Microwaved water can “explode” if overheated. Prevent this by putting a wooden popsicle stick or teaspoon of sugar in the cup. [6] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source
If there’s no recommendation on the package, try 1 slightly rounded teaspoon (5mL) per 8 oz (240mL).
Use the same spoon and same mug each time so you have a benchmark for the coffee to water ratio.
If you live in a humid climate, transfer the leftovers to smaller containers as you use them up. This will minimize the amount of air that contacts the coffee. In extra-humid tropics, the refrigerator might be drier than your cupboards. [8] X Research source
Keep an eye on the milk and stir occasionally. Unattended milk can overflow rapidly.
To froth up the mixture with a spoon, add the instant coffee and sugar to a cup, then stir in enough water to make a paste. Beat this with a spoon until foamy, then stir in the hot milk. [9] X Research source
Replace the milk and sugar with flavored creamers, or homemade flavored milk. Add flavorings such as vanilla extract, cocoa powder, or ground cinnamon, stirred in thoroughly. Careful — it’s easy to overdo these if making a single cup. Replace the sugar with the flavored syrup of your choice. You can even buy liquid coffee essence or extract to add a bigger punch of coffee flavor. Keep in mind that commercial syrups often include high fructose corn syrup.
