Nightcap Coffee Mix

This spiced coffee mix is a make-ahead pantry staple: instant coffee granules blended with non-dairy creamer, sugar, ground cardamom, and cinnamon. One heaping tablespoon stirred into hot water and you’ve got a fragrant, lightly spiced cup that feels like a warm hug before bed.

The cardamom is the star here, not the coffee. A full teaspoon of ground cardamom is generous, and it gives each cup that aromatic, almost floral quality you’d find in Middle Eastern or Scandinavian coffee traditions. The cinnamon plays backup, adding warmth without competing.

Mixing everything dry means the flavors distribute evenly through every scoop. No measuring three things every time you want a cup, just one tablespoon and hot water.

Kitchen Tips

• Stir the mix well before each use. The heavier coffee granules settle to the bottom over time, so scooping from the top gives you mostly creamer and sugar.
• Store in an airtight container away from heat and moisture. The instant coffee absorbs humidity quickly and clumps.
• Adjust the sweetness to taste. One tablespoon per cup is the starting point, but go lighter if you prefer less sugar in your coffee.

Variations

• Add a pinch of ground nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Use decaf instant coffee if you’re genuinely drinking this as a nightcap. Regular instant will keep you up.
• Package in small jars with a ribbon for a simple, thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays.