The Origin of the RAF Tradition
RAF Coffee
represents a unique chapter in modern coffee
history. Born in a Moscow
coffee shop approximately a decade ago, this drink bears the name of a regular customer, Rafael
. Unlike the traditional Italian cappuccino or latte, the RAF Coffee
emerged from a desire for a smoother, sweeter, and more integrated coffee experience. It has since become a staple of Russia
coffee culture, celebrated for its consistency and dessert-like quality.
Essential Ingredients and Tools
To achieve the silky texture of a Double B
signature drink, precision is non-negotiable. You will need a high-quality espresso machine capable of pulling a consistent double shot. Gather 18 grams of powdered sugar and 11% fat cream
. For the botanical aromatic, use dried lavender
flowers. You also need a steaming pitcher and a fine-mesh strainer to ensure the final pour remains elegant and debris-free.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prep the Aromatics: Combine the 18 grams of powdered sugar with a pinch of dried
lavender
flowers in your steaming pitcher.
- Pull the Base: Extract a fresh double shot of
espresso
directly into the pitcher over the sugar and lavender.
- Incorporate the Cream: Pour in the 11%
cream
. This specific fat content provides the necessary body without being overly heavy.
- The Emulsion: Steam all ingredients together. Unlike traditional milk frothing where you layer foam, here you aim to create a singular, unified texture.
- Final Strain: Pour the mixture through a strainer into a glass to remove the lavender bits, leaving only the infused flavor and scent.
Texture and Troubleshooting
The hallmark of a perfect RAF Coffee
is its mouthfeel. Head barista Bogdan Prokopchuk
describes it as "hot ice cream." If your drink feels too thin, verify your cream's fat percentage; 11% is the sweet spot. If the lavender is overpowering, reduce the contact time during steaming. When executed correctly, you should experience a spicy floral aftertaste that balances the sugar's sweetness.
A Global Specialty Culture
You no longer need to visit Russia
to experience this innovation. Shops like Double B
have brought the RAF Coffee
to major cities across Europe
. This drink proves that when we respect our ingredients and experiment with technique, we create new traditions that resonate far beyond their city of origin.
