Barraquito: the Canarian coffee that wins over palates

A coffee with island soul that's become a legend

In the world of coffee, there are recipes you try and forget... and others that leave a mark. The barraquito, also known as café barraquito, firmly belongs in the second group. This typical drink from the Canary Islands—especially from Tenerife—combines flavor, tradition, and a unique presentation.

But beyond its looks, the barraquito canario is a full sensory experience: a layered coffee, balanced, sweet, and lightly alcoholic, that has won over both locals and visitors. At Cafés Granell, with nearly a century of expertise in the coffee world, we invite you to discover what makes this drink so special.

What is a barraquito? A coffee that represents Tenerife

Many ask “barraquito what is it?” or why this drink is so popular in the islands. Its origin goes back to traditional cafés in Tenerife, where it was first served as a creative way to enjoy post-meal coffee. Over time, its unique taste and eye-catching layered look—served in a glass—made the barraquito tenerife part of the islands' culinary heritage.

Today, ordering a café barraquito in the Canaries is almost a ritual. While every bar has its own twist, the basic ingredients are always the same.

Barraquito recipe: how to prepare this Canarian classic at home

One of the best things about the barraquito canario is that it’s easy to make at home if you have the right ingredients and a quality coffee, like the ones we offer at Cafés Granell. Here’s how to capture that authentic island flavor:

✦ Traditional ingredients:

• Espresso coffee (strong, aromatic – best with Cafés Granell varieties)

• Sweetened condensed milk

• Licor 43 (or a similar sweet liqueur, though Licor 43 is the most traditional)

• Hot or steamed milk

• Ground cinnamon

• Lemon zest or peel

✦ Step-by-step preparation:

1. In a clear glass, pour a generous layer of sweetened condensed milk.

2. Gently add the Licor 43 on top.

3. Slowly pour in the hot milk to keep the layers separate.

4. Add the espresso over the milk.

5. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a bit of lemon zest or peel.

The secret lies in the order and patience when pouring each layer. A traditional barraquito recipe is not only delicious—it has to look stunning too.

Why is the café barraquito so special?

The café barraquito blends the strength of espresso with the sweetness of condensed milk, the aroma of the liqueur, and the fresh citrus touch of lemon. This fusion makes it more than just a coffee—it’s an experience. Ideal as a dessert or to finish a meal with style.

And let’s not forget its Instagram-worthy look—perfect to impress your guests. Many describe it as a gourmet coffee with a popular soul: a signature drink born in the cafés of Tenerife.

A unique coffee with the flavor of the Canary Islands

At Cafés Granell, where we celebrate coffee culture in all its forms, we encourage you to try this recipe and experiment with different coffee varieties until you find your perfect barraquito canario.

Our tip: Use an aromatic and well-balanced espresso, like our 100% Arabica blends or organic coffee. The result will be a drink worthy of Tenerife’s finest cafés—without leaving your home.

Conclusion: barraquito, more than just a coffee

Now you know: the barraquito tenerife isn’t just another recipe—it’s a symbol of the welcoming, sweet, and joyful spirit of the Canary Islands. Making it at home lets you travel through your senses and enjoy coffee in a unique, flavorful way.

So next time you’re in the mood for something different, surprising, and full of character, you know what to make: a café barraquito, Granell-style.