Cowboy Coffee Recipe by The Pioneer Woman
Espresso, sarsaparilla, and smoked sea salt combine for a bold, smoky coffee experience.
There’s something undeniably rugged and romantic about cowboy coffee—a brew that’s both simple and rich in flavor, evoking campfires under starlit skies and mornings on the open prairie. The Pioneer Woman’s Cowboy Coffee takes this classic notion and elevates it with a hint of espresso, a splash of sarsaparilla, and a dusting of smoked sea salt. This isn’t just coffee; it’s an experience from The Mercantile, right in your kitchen.
The Story Behind Cowboy Coffee
Inspired by the wild West and the Mercantile’s rustic charm, Cowboy Coffee is more than a drink—it’s a nod to tradition blended with a modern twist. The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, brings her signature warmth and approachability to this recipe, making it perfect for both coffee aficionados and casual sippers looking to try something new.
If you’ve ever visited Pawhuska’s Mercantile, you know every sip is an adventure. Now you can recreate that adventure at home with this easy recipe that balances bold coffee, sweet sarsaparilla, and a touch of smoke for unforgettable depth.
What Is Cowboy Coffee?
Cowboy Coffee traditionally refers to coffee brewed simply over an open fire, often with minimal equipment and a robust, unfiltered taste. The Pioneer Woman’s version, however, is a creative twist: espresso brings intensity, sarsaparilla adds a playful sweetness, and smoked sea salt provides a subtle, savory finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Cowboy Coffee at home, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients:
- 6 oz hot dark-roast coffee (brewed fresh)
- 1 shot espresso (freshly pulled adds the best flavor)
- ½ oz sarsaparilla syrup (look for quality syrups or make your own)
- Steamed milk (whole milk or your favorite alternative)
- Pinch of ground espresso (for garnish)
- Pinch of smoked sea salt (a little goes a long way)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Brew the Coffee
Prepare 6 ounces of hot, dark-roast coffee. Use your preferred brewing method—French press, drip, or pour-over—to achieve a rich, full-bodied base.
Pull the Espresso
Pull a fresh shot of espresso. The espresso adds depth and intensity, balancing the sarsaparilla’s sweetness.
Combine and Stir
Pour the hot coffee and espresso into a large mug. Add ½ ounce of sarsaparilla syrup and stir gently to combine.
Top with Steamed Milk
Heat and froth your milk—whole milk offers creaminess, but non-dairy alternatives work well too. Pour the steamed milk over the coffee mixture.
Garnish
Finish with a pinch of ground espresso and a pinch of smoked sea salt on top. These final touches bring aroma and a hint of smokiness to each sip.
Tips for the Best Cowboy Coffee
- Quality Matters: Use freshly roasted beans for both your coffee and espresso. Freshness brings out the best flavors.
- Sarsaparilla Syrup: If you can’t find sarsaparilla syrup, try root beer or birch beer syrup as a substitute for a similar herbal sweetness.
- Smoked Sea Salt: This ingredient is key for the signature smoky note. Look for it in specialty grocery stores or online.
- Milk Options: For a dairy-free version, use oat, almond, or coconut milk. Steam and froth for a creamy texture.
- No Espresso Machine? You can use instant espresso powder or a Moka pot for a concentrated coffee base.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cowboy Coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up—it’s a conversation starter. The interplay of bold coffee, sweet sarsaparilla, and savory sea salt creates a complex yet balanced flavor that’s both comforting and intriguing. This drink is perfect for lazy weekend mornings, cozy gatherings, or whenever you want to bring a bit of Mercantile magic into your day.
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Customizing Your Cowboy Coffee
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sarsaparilla syrup to your taste.
- Spice: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Alcohol Option: For a boozy twist, stir in a shot of bourbon or whiskey.
Nutritional Information
While Cowboy Coffee is a treat, it’s relatively low in calories if you stick to standard portions. Using whole milk, one serving contains approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~70-90 |
| Caffeine | ~150-200 mg |
| Sugar | ~10-15 g |
Of course, nutritional values will vary based on your choices of milk and syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sarsaparilla syrup?
Sarsaparilla syrup is a sweet, herbal syrup made from the sarsaparilla root. It has a flavor similar to root beer, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and wintergreen.
Can I make this recipe without an espresso machine?
Yes! While a freshly pulled espresso shot provides the best flavor, you can substitute with strong brewed coffee or instant espresso powder.
What’s a good substitute for smoked sea salt?
If you can’t find smoked sea salt, regular sea salt with a tiny drop of liquid smoke (use sparingly) is a decent substitute.
Is Cowboy Coffee served hot or cold?
This recipe is designed for a hot beverage, but you can experiment with serving it over ice for a refreshing twist.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute any plant-based milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.
The Pioneer Woman’s Touch
Ree Drummond—The Pioneer Woman—is known for her approachable, hearty, and family-friendly recipes. Cowboy Coffee is no exception. It’s simple enough for a weekday but special enough for guests, encapsulating the spirit of the American West and the warmth of home cooking.
Bringing The Mercantile Home
Recreating The Mercantile’s Cowboy Coffee isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about the experience. Imagine curling up in your favorite chair, steam rising from your mug, the aroma of coffee and sarsaparilla mingling with the hint of smoke. Even if you can’t visit Pawhuska, you can capture the Mercantile’s charm in every sip.
Recommended Tools
- Espresso machine or Moka pot
- Milk frother
- Good quality coffee mug
- Small whisk
Investing in a few essential tools can elevate your coffee-making experience and help you achieve café-quality results at home.
Exploring Coffee Variations
Cowboy Coffee is a great introduction to experimenting with coffee. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, try these other Pioneer Woman-inspired coffee drinks:
- Spicy Cowgirl Coffee: Cold brew coffee with chili syrup, vanilla syrup, cream, milk, chocolate, cinnamon, and cayenne—sweet, creamy, and a little spicy.
- The Perfect Iced Coffee: A simple, smooth cold brew with half-and-half and sweetened condensed milk for a refreshing treat.
Final Thoughts
Cowboy Coffee by The Pioneer Woman is a recipe that bridges the past and present—simple, bold, and just a little bit unexpected. It’s a celebration of good coffee, creative flavors, and the joy of sharing something special with friends and family. Whether you’re a coffee purist or a flavor adventurer, this drink invites you to slow down, savor, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a well-made cup.
Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite coffee ritual.
References
- https://missourigirlhome.com/spicy-cowgirl-coffee/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11061/perfect-iced-coffee/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a35916176/spicy-cowgirl-coffee-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a35913612/cowboy-coffee-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g43733692/coffee-recipes/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ke56JRri-k
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