Know Your Specialty Coffee & Meet Demand Across Canada
In the world of coffee, specialty coffee has emerged as a rising trend, grabbing the attention of coffee enthusiasts across Canada. But what exactly is specialty coffee, and why is it gaining such popularity?
What is Specialty Coffee?
Specialty coffee goes beyond your average cup of coffee. It refers to the highest quality green coffee beans that are carefully cultivated, roasted by true craftspeople, and brewed to well-established standards. Unlike mass-produced coffee, specialty coffee celebrates unique flavours, ethical practices, and the intrinsic essence of the beans. To be considered specialty coffee, beans must score a cupping score of 80 points or above on the Specialty Coffee Association's 100-point scale. It's not just a score; it's an entire experience that encompasses the journey from bean to cup.
Types of Specialty Coffee Drinks
When it comes to specialty coffee, the options are endless. Let's explore some popular specialty coffee drinks that have captured the hearts of coffee lovers:
Espresso: The foundation of many specialty coffee drinks, espresso is a concentrated shot of coffee brewed under high pressure. It boasts a rich, bold flavour and a creamy layer of "crema" on top.
Americano: A classic favorite, the Americano is made by diluting a shot of espresso with hot water, resulting in a smooth and satisfying cup of coffee.
Cappuccino: Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk froth, the cappuccino is a harmonious blend of flavours and textures, often topped with a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon.
Flat White: Hailing from Australia, the flat white is a velvety-smooth coffee delight. It combines a double shot of espresso with microfoam milk, creating a balanced and creamy beverage.
Macchiato: Not to be confused with its caramel-infused counterpart, a traditional macchiato is a small amount of milk froth "stained" with a shot of espresso, resulting in a bold and intense flavour profile.
Latte: A popular choice for those who enjoy a milky and creamy coffee experience, the latte combines a shot of espresso with steamed milk and a thin layer of milk foam on top.
Mocha: For chocolate lovers, the mocha is a delightful blend of espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup, creating a luscious and indulgent treat.
The Rise of Specialty Coffee and Its Impact on Businesses
The growing interest in specialty coffee signifies a shift in coffee culture and presents exciting opportunities for businesses in the foodservice industry.
Data from our 2024 Food Trend Report highlights that younger generations are driving the demand for unique and ethically sourced beverages. This means that offering specialty coffee can attract a broader customer base and ensure foot traffic year-round. Additionally, brewed coffee is taking a backseat to growing interest in espresso-based, iced/frozen and other specialty coffees. Our Trend Report also highlights that specialty coffee is consumed 27.5% of the time Out of home and 14.8% in home. In contrast, coffee in general is prepared at home 81% of the time.
Did you know 1 in 3 Gen Z coffee drinkers express a preference for local, independent restaurants over chain establishments? The appeal of specialty and cold coffee sourced from foodservice derives from what cannot be prepared at home quickly or easily. To ensure customers come back to your business, consider incorporating a seasonal menu! By including limited-time-offerings, you can further entice customers with a rotating selection of specialty coffee drinks. In turn, this will keep offerings fresh, exciting, and relevant.
Specialty Coffee Drink Recipes to Add to Your Menu
To help you elevate your coffee menu, we've curated a selection of specialty coffee recipes that are sure to impress your customers. These recipes include:
- Coffee-Mate Mocha: Indulge in the heavenly blend of Carnation Hot Chocolate and Coffee-Mate original creamer, creating a next-level mocha experience.
- Smore's Latte: Perfect for the colder months, this beverage combines the comforting flavours of coffee and smore's, providing a cozy and delicious treat.
- Oat Cinnamon Latte: Embrace the flavours of fall with this easy-to-make latte that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the creaminess of oat milk.
- Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte: A customer-favorite during the autumn season, this refreshing iced latte is infused with the beloved flavours of pumpkin spice.
- Salted Caramel White Russian: This unique twist on a classic cocktail combines instant coffee, vanilla syrup, and salted caramel for a decadent and flavourful experience.
Specialty coffee has become a force to be reckoned with in the coffee industry, captivating coffee lovers with its exceptional quality, unique flavours, and ethical practices. By understanding the concept of specialty coffee, incorporating it into your menus, and exploring diverse flavours and recipes, you can meet the growing demand for specialty coffee and provide an unforgettable coffee experience for your customers.
Embrace the world of specialty coffee and elevate your coffee offerings to new heights!
The information presented here offers a general industry perspective and may not directly apply to your specific business operations. Consult with the appropriate subject matter experts before making any business decisions.
1. 2024 Ipsos.® FSM FOODSERVICE MONITOR
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Coffee-Mate Mocha
Salted Caramel White Russian
