Coffee has become a leading beverage in America. According to United Press International (UPI), 75% of teenagers drink caffeine regularly, and teens are now drinking more coffee than caffeinated soda. Coffee shops are taking over cities, with 250 located in Cincinnati alone. Many members of the McNicholas community walk the halls with a cup of coffee in their hands each morning.
Coffee contains caffeine, the number one reason why people drink it every day. According to SELF, the caffeine enters the bloodstream and quickly finds its way to the brain, where is boosts alertness and energy.
“I drink coffee because it’s very good, I really like the taste of it,” junior Allyn Albers said. “It is very energizing and keeps me from sleeping in times that I need to stay awake.”
Coffee can be made in different ways, and each coffee drinker has their favorite style. Some of the most popular coffee drinks are cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, and frappuccinos.
“My favorite drink from Starbucks is the Double Chocolate Chip Frappuccino. It’s so good,” freshman Nicholas Clark said. “When I drink regular coffee, I add 2 creams and 3 sugars.”
“I get my coffee from Dunkin’ Donuts because it is cheap and it tastes good. I think Starbucks is too expensive for coffee,” sophomore Tara Rammel said. “When I make coffee at home, I use the Dunkin’ Donuts filter in my Keurig.”
“I drink coffee once a day, in the morning,” photography teacher Rebecca Carmel said. “My favorite place is Luckman’s. Starbucks is good, but I prefer small businesses. At home, I sometimes sprinkle some cinnamon in with the coffee grounds, to add more flavor.”
“My favorite coffee place is Starbucks. I get the caramel mocha macchiato,” freshman Savannah Jostworth said. “I’m interested in knowing more easy coffee recipes to make at home.”
How do you make some of these different coffees?
Cappuccinos – Stem 1 cup of milk in a saucepan over medium heat, but don’t boil the milk. Once bubbles have formed, remove the pan from heat. Whip some of the milk with an electric mixer, and the milk will begin to thicken until it forms a foam. Then brew your coffee. The cappuccino consists of 1/3 coffee, 1/3 steamed milk, and 1/3 foam. (Folgers Coffee)
Lattes – Make a latte to your liking. A latte is made the same way as a cappuccino. A latte consists of coffee, steamed milk, and foam. While making a latte, add as much steamed milk or foam that you please. It may turn into a cappuccino depending on how you like it. (Kitchn)
Macchiato – First brew your coffee, then steam milk on medium heat until it is warm and bubbles have formed, then remove the milk from heat. Top your cup of coffee with the steamed milk. (Tablespoon)
Frappuccino – Brew your coffee and put it into the fridge until it is chilled. Once the coffee is cold, put about 1 ¾ cups into a blender. Then add about 1/2 cup of milk. Put in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract and condensed milk to add sweetness. You can add as much condensed milk as you please, to get it as sweet as you prefer. Add a handful of ice, and blend until the Frappuccino is smooth. (Pioneer Woman)
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