How to Make Ree Drummond’s Spicy Cowgirl Coffee at Home
A creamy concoction balancing heat, chocolate, and vanilla for a uniquely flavorful sip.
Ree Drummond’s Spicy Cowgirl Coffee: The Perfect Iced Coffee Adventure
If you love coffee with a twist, Ree Drummond’s Spicy Cowgirl Coffee is a must-try. Inspired by The Pioneer Woman Mercantile’s menu, this drink combines cold brew coffee, chile syrup, milk, and chocolate, topped with sweet vanilla whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon and cayenne. It’s creamy, spicy, sweet, and utterly unforgettable—perfect for both coffee lovers and adventurous sippers.
What Is Spicy Cowgirl Coffee?
Spicy Cowgirl Coffee is a signature iced coffee drink developed by Ree Drummond, blending rich cold brew with a hint of heat from chile syrup and cayenne, balanced by the sweetness of vanilla and chocolate. The result is a complex, flavorful beverage that’s as fun to make as it is to drink.
This recipe elevates the standard iced coffee experience with layers of flavor and texture. It’s both a conversation starter and a crowd-pleaser—ideal for brunches, gatherings, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something special.
Key Ingredients & Why They Matter
Every element in Spicy Cowgirl Coffee plays a crucial role in creating its signature taste:
- Cold Brew Coffee: Smooth, less acidic, and full-bodied, cold brew forms the drink’s robust base.
- Chile Syrup: Adds a subtle, lingering heat and depth of flavor. You can buy it or make your own at home.
- Vanilla Syrup: Sweetens the whipped cream topping and balances the spice.
- Whole Milk: Provides creaminess without overpowering the coffee.
- Chocolate Syrup: Introduces a touch of indulgence and richness.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped with vanilla syrup, it creates a luxurious, fluffy topping.
- Cinnamon & Cayenne: These spices add warmth and a gentle kick—adjust the cayenne to your heat tolerance.
- Ice: Optional, but recommended for a refreshing iced coffee experience.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Making Spicy Cowgirl Coffee is straightforward, but the flavors are anything but ordinary. Here’s how to do it at home, just as Ree Drummond does:
Ingredients
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 ounce vanilla syrup
- 6 ounces cold brew coffee
- 4 ounces whole milk
- 1 ounce chile syrup
- 1 ounce chocolate syrup
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
- Cayenne pepper (for garnish)
Instructions
- Whip the Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk the heavy cream and vanilla syrup until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- Mix the Base: In a cocktail shaker, combine the cold brew coffee, whole milk, chile syrup, and chocolate syrup. Add ice cubes if you want a chilled drink. Shake vigorously until frothy.
- Assemble the Drink: Strain the shaken coffee mixture into a glass or jar filled with ice. Leave some room at the top for the whipped cream.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Spoon the vanilla whipped cream on top. Dust with ground cinnamon and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. If desired, drizzle a little more chocolate syrup over the whipped cream.
Tips for the Best Spicy Cowgirl Coffee
To make your Spicy Cowgirl Coffee truly exceptional, consider these expert tips:
- Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients: Homemade cold brew and syrups (like chili and vanilla) can elevate your drink’s flavor and save you money in the long run.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re new to spicy drinks, start with a small amount of cayenne and add more to taste.
- Try Different Chiles: Use serrano, jalapeño, or chipotle for your chili syrup for varying heat profiles.
- Customize the Coffee: Play with the coffee-to-milk ratio for a stronger or milder taste.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare your cold brew and simple syrups up to a week in advance for quick assembly.
Homemade Cold Brew Coffee Method
If you want to make your own cold brew coffee at home, here’s a simple method:
- Add coarsely ground dark roast coffee to a French press or a large pitcher.
- Pour in cold water (about 1 cup of grounds to 4 cups water) and stir.
- Cover and steep in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours.
- Strain the coffee through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
What others are reading
Homemade Chili Simple Syrup
A key flavor component of Spicy Cowgirl Coffee is the chili simple syrup. Here’s how to make it from scratch:
- Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer, then add sliced chile peppers (serrano or jalapeño) and simmer for a few minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Strain out the peppers and store the syrup in the fridge for up to a month.
Serving Suggestions
Spicy Cowgirl Coffee is best enjoyed fresh, with the cold brew, milk, and syrups well chilled. Serve it in a large glass or mason jar for a rustic touch, and always finish with the whipped cream, cinnamon, and cayenne just before drinking. It’s a rich and indulgent drink—perfect for sipping slowly in good company.
Variations & Customizations
Want to make this recipe your own? Try these easy twists:
| Variation | How to Make It |
|---|---|
| Coconut Cowgirl | Use coconut milk instead of whole milk for a tropical twist. |
| Mexican Mocha Cowgirl | Add a pinch of ground cinnamon and a dash of vanilla to the cold brew before mixing. |
| Vegan Cowgirl | Substitute with oat milk and vegan whipped cream for a dairy-free version. |
| Almond Joy Cowgirl | Add a splash of almond syrup and top with toasted coconut flakes. |
Feel free to experiment with different syrups, milks, and toppings—Spicy Cowgirl Coffee is endlessly adaptable!
Origin & Inspiration
The Spicy Cowgirl Coffee recipe is inspired by Ree Drummond’s experiences at her famous Mercantile and Lodge, where bold flavors and Southern hospitality meet. The drink captures the spirit of the Pioneer Woman brand—approachable, delicious, and a little bit quirky.
This recipe is also featured in “The Pioneer Woman Cooks: The New Frontier,” which includes more than 100 new recipes blending comfort and adventure. It’s a testament to Ree Drummond’s love of sharing creative, satisfying food and drinks with her family, friends, and fans.
How to Store Leftovers
Spicy Cowgirl Coffee is best enjoyed immediately, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The whipped cream may deflate slightly, so it’s best to add it fresh when serving. Syrups can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a month.
FAQs
Can I use hot brewed coffee instead of cold brew?
Cold brew is recommended for its smooth, less acidic taste, but you can use strong hot coffee that’s been chilled (not iced coffee cubes, which can dilute flavor).
Where can I find chile syrup?
Specialty gourmet stores or online retailers may carry chile syrup, or you can make your own at home using sugar, water, and fresh chile peppers.
Is this drink very spicy?
The level of heat depends on the type and amount of chile syrup and cayenne used. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
Can I make a large batch for a party?
Yes! Multiply the recipe and mix the base ingredients in a large pitcher. Top each serving individually with whipped cream, cinnamon, and cayenne for the best texture and presentation.
Are there non-dairy alternatives that work well in this recipe?
Absolutely. Use your favorite plant-based milk and dairy-free whipped topping for a vegan-friendly version.
How do I avoid making the drink too sweet or too spicy?
Taste as you go when adding syrups and spices. The recipe is easily customizable—add more milk to mellow the spice, or more chocolate for sweetness.
Final Thoughts
Ree Drummond’s Spicy Cowgirl Coffee is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. With its blend of bold coffee, creamy milk, indulgent chocolate, and a hint of heat, it’s a fun and flavorful way to shake up your coffee routine. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating yourself to a morning pick-me-up, or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your friends.
Ready to take your coffee game to the next level? Grab your ingredients, whip up a batch of Spicy Cowgirl Coffee, and savor every sip. Yee-haw—your taste buds are in for a wild ride!
References
- https://missourigirlhome.com/spicy-cowgirl-coffee/
- https://thesecretingredientblog.wordpress.com/2019/12/09/spicy-cowgirl-by-ree-drummond/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a35916176/spicy-cowgirl-coffee-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g43733692/coffee-recipes/
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