Coffee Caramel

For a different version, replace the coffee with 1 cup whole milk and use 1⁄2 cup ground pistachios instead of the cinnamon.

INGREDIENTS | SERVES 8–12

7 cups whole milk

3 cups granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup hot, strong coffee

1⁄2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons butter

  1. Combine the milk, sugar, and soda in a large pot on medium heat. Boil, stirring every few minutes, until the mixture turns thick and slightly brown.
  2. Add the coffee and cinnamon; stir well. Turn the heat to low and continue cooking until the mixture is thick. When a small drop of the mixture is put in a glass of cold water, it should form a soft ball.
  3. Spread the butter onto the bottom and sides of a 9" × 9" cake pan. Pour the mixture into the pan. Chill in the refrigerator at least 2 hours before serving.