A pick-me-up anytime

Its only fitting my first "real" post be on coffee. Everyone that knows me knows I need/love coffee! I have worked in a few coffee shops over the years. It has definitely been the most fun job I have worked. There's nothing like passing joy in a cup to someone at 6 am (or 10 pm)!

Ok, now let me clarify, when I say coffee I mean latte. I'm not a fan of drip coffee. I love sweet, creamy, dessert in a cup, coffee. Its not that I have anything against drip coffee, its just not my cup of tea (or coffee). I noticed it upsets my stomach a little, so I have been a latte drinker (plus i am not good about drinking milk so i get a serving in a latte). A big perk of working in coffee is free/discounted coffee. My time at the coffee shops ended, and I transitioned to a full time stay at home mom(even though I only worked about 8 hours a week). At first we got coffee 2-3 times a week, now we rarely go out for it. I have used my barista knowledge and basic kitchen tools to save my family a ton of money.

I am going to teach you how to make Toddy! It is basically cold brewed coffee concentrate.you could get a toddy maker like this one here (i have had one for 5 or 6 years). It makes it super easy to filter the coffee grounds out, but it isn't necessary. All you need is a glass container that will hold approximately a quart or more, a mesh strainer, coffee filters, a mixing bowl, and your choice of coffee. Our budget doesnt allow for fancy whole bean custom roast coffee anymore, so I buy the big tubs when they are on sale. The great things about the tubs/cans is you can paint them and reuse them for pantry items.


To start the most important thing you need to know is its a 1:4 coffee to water ratio. I do about 1 cup coffee to 4 cups water but you may not need, or use, that much so make adjustments for your lifestyle. coarse ground works the best but pre-ground drip works fine. dark roast will give you a richer stronger flavor. hint: After you measure mark with a permanent marker a coffee line and a waterline. No more measuring every time.

Next add water. Now comes the really hard part.....Let it sit on your counter for 12 to 24 hours. I do about 24 hours.

















Come back after your Toddy has brewed and get your coffee filters and mesh strainer. position over bowl and start filtering!

When I'm done filtering, I use my hospital much to store my toddy in the fridge. the lid is perfect for pouring! Of course, if you don't have a hospital mug lying around you can use any container with a lid.               

Now that you have a fresh batch of toddy, you're probably ready to try making a latte. If you are brave enough, get in the kitchen and figure it out! If you want some guidance, you'll have to wait!! I promise I will guide you through building and flavoring drinks soon! There are some hints in the background of the last picture! :) Until next time, LETS MAKE A MESS!!!