Mmmm, there’s no better way to start your morning (or get you to that 8am class) than a delish cup of coffee. So stopping by the campus cafe for your favorite hot, caffeinated beverage topped with whipped cream has become a part of your daily routine. But did you realize that by dishing out $3.50 every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday you’re spending $70 a month? And that’s only a small cup of basic coffee—I know I’ve been guilty of stopping by the cafe twice on a particularly dreadful Monday. Even if you only indulge two or three times a week, that’s still spending upwards of $40. When you start figuring in larger sizes, extra flavors and whipped cream… it becomes blatantly obvious why your bank account is so depleted.
So what’s a smart, savvy college girl to do when you want to save money but can’t bear the thought of coffee-free morning classes? Be your own barista!
Save precious time and money by setting up a coffee shop in your dorm or apartment kitchen. First, invest in a coffee maker. You should be able to find a decent, simple 4-cup coffee maker for about $20 at your local Wal-Mart or Target. If you’re thinking long-term, consider a fancier coffee maker with a timer, special features and additional settings. (Don’t forget the coffee filters!) Before you leave the store, pick out some pretty coffee mugs and travel mugs.
Your next stop is the grocery store; your nose should lead you to the coffee aisle where you’ll find a huge selection of different roasts and blends. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the options, opt for a classic or morning roast by Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks or Folger’s. (My personal favorite is the line of Folger’s Gourmet coffees… especially the Creme Brulee, yumm!) Still feeling unsure about the coffee you picked? Stick to buying a small bag or can—that way you won’t be wasting too much money or coffee if you don’t like it.
Once you’ve got your coffee, it’s time for the fun stuff! Coffee mates will become your new bff’s. The liquid varieties expire faster, so if you want to stock up a big selection buy the powdered stuff. Other possibilities for dressing up your coffee include milk, whipped cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, hot cocoa mix and cappuccino mix. You don’t want to put all of those into your coffee at once—but having a good variety on hand will allow for exploration and experimentation in becoming your own barista.
When it’s time to make your coffee, read up on the coffee maker instructions and any instructions that may be listed on the bag of coffee itself. Depending on how strong you like your coffee will affect the ratio of water to coffee. Generally, a couple spoonfuls of coffee for 4 cups of water should do. Experiment with varying amounts of coffee and steamed milk. Surf the web for new coffee recipes to try. And never underestimate the difference a sugar cube or two can make!
(above: Perfect Pour poster available for purchase here.)
With a little practice, you’ll end up being your favorite barista on campus… while saving $40-$50 a month, too!