Homemade Iced Coffee Boba
Equipment
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Spoon or spatula for stirring
- 2 Tall glasses
- 2 Wide straws
Ingredients
- ½ cup tapioca pearls
- 2 cups brewed coffee chilled
- ½ cup milk dairy or non-dairy
- 2 tablespoons sugar adjust to taste
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Optional flavorings: vanilla extract chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, etc.
Instructions
Cook Tapioca Pearls
- Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add tapioca pearls and stir gently. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the pearls are soft and chewy, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pearls and rinse them under cold water. Set aside.
Prepare Coffee
- Brew your favorite coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. You can also use cold brew coffee for a smoother flavor.
Sweeten Coffee
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled coffee with sugar, adjusting the sweetness to your preference. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Assemble the Drink
- Divide the cooked tapioca pearls between two tall glasses. Add ice cubes to each glass.
Pour Coffee Over Pearls
- Pour the sweetened coffee over the ice and tapioca pearls, dividing it evenly between the glasses.
Add Milk
- Pour milk into each glass, adjusting the amount based on your preference for creaminess.
Optional Flavorings
- If desired, add a splash of vanilla extract or a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce to each glass for extra flavor.
Stir Well
- Use a long spoon or straw to stir each drink thoroughly, ensuring that all the ingredients are well mixed.
Serve and Enjoy
- Insert wide straws into each glass and serve immediately. Sip and enjoy the delightful combination of coffee, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls!
Notes
- Experiment with different flavorings and milk alternatives to customize your iced coffee boba to suit your taste preferences.
- You can store any leftover tapioca pearls in simple syrup in the refrigerator for future use.
- Enjoy your homemade iced coffee boba as a refreshing treat on a hot day or as a special indulgence anytime you crave it.
Iced coffee boba, a delightful fusion beverage, combines the refreshing taste of iced coffee with the chewy tapioca pearls of traditional bubble tea. This innovative concoction has gained immense popularity worldwide, offering a unique twist to the classic coffee experience.
From its humble origins to its diverse variations, iced coffee boba has become a beloved drink for coffee enthusiasts and bubble tea aficionados alike. In this exploration, we delve into the origins, preparation, flavors, and cultural significance of this delightful beverage. Join us on a journey to discover the tantalizing world of iced coffee boba.
RECIPE HIGHLIGHTS
- Refreshing and Energizing: Iced coffee boba provides a refreshing and energizing pick-me-up, perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a boost of energy. The combination of chilled coffee and chewy tapioca pearls creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that invigorate the senses.
- Customizable: This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the sweetness level, flavorings, and milk type to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer your iced coffee boba sweetened with sugar, flavored with vanilla extract, or made with almond milk, you can tailor the recipe to create your perfect cup.
- Easy to Make at Home: Making iced coffee boba at home is simple and straightforward, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal preparation. With step-by-step instructions and ingredient notes, you can easily recreate the deliciousness of this popular beverage in the comfort of your own kitchen.
- Versatile: Iced coffee boba can be enjoyed as a refreshing beverage on its own or paired with your favorite snacks or desserts. Serve it as a midday treat, a post-workout refreshment, or a sweet ending to a meal. The versatility of this drink makes it suitable for any occasion.
- Cultural Fusion: Iced coffee boba represents a fusion of cultural influences, combining the flavors of coffee with the chewy tapioca pearls of traditional bubble tea. This cross-cultural exchange reflects the diversity and creativity of modern cuisine, offering a unique and delicious beverage experience.
- Social Media-Worthy: With its vibrant colors and visually appealing presentation, iced coffee boba is perfect for sharing on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Capture photos and videos of your homemade creations to share with friends and followers, showcasing your culinary skills and creativity.
- Family-Friendly: Iced coffee boba is a family-friendly beverage that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Kids will love the fun and chewy tapioca pearls, while adults can appreciate the rich coffee flavor and customizable options. Make a batch for your next family gathering or movie night for a tasty and refreshing treat.
- Budget-Friendly: Making iced coffee boba at home is also budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy this delicious beverage without breaking the bank. By using simple and affordable ingredients, you can indulge in the refreshing delight of iced coffee boba whenever you crave it, without having to visit a specialty cafe or tea house.
These recipe highlights showcase the appeal and versatility of iced coffee boba, making it a favorite beverage for coffee and bubble tea enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up, a creative culinary project, or a fun and tasty treat to share with friends and family, iced coffee boba has something to offer for everyone.
INGREDIENT NOTES
- Coffee: Choose your favorite type of coffee for brewing or cold brewing. Consider the flavor profile and strength of the coffee, as it will contribute significantly to the taste of your iced coffee boba. Experiment with different coffee blends and roasts to find the perfect balance for your preferences.
- Tapioca Pearls: Tapioca pearls come in various sizes and colors, so choose according to your preference. Larger pearls may take longer to cook and have a chewier texture, while smaller pearls cook faster and have a softer texture. Some tapioca pearls may require pre-soaking before cooking, so be sure to check the package instructions.
- Milk or Dairy-Free Alternatives: Select the type of milk or dairy-free alternative that complements the flavor of your coffee and enhances the creaminess of your iced coffee boba. Common options include whole milk, almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Choose unsweetened varieties if you prefer to control the sweetness level of your drink.
- Sweetener: Customize the sweetness of your iced coffee boba by adding sugar, honey, agave syrup, or flavored syrups. Keep in mind that some flavored syrups may already contain sugar, so adjust the amount of additional sweetener accordingly. Taste the drink as you sweeten it to achieve your desired level of sweetness.
- Ice Cubes: Use high-quality ice cubes made from filtered water to ensure that your iced coffee boba stays cold and refreshing without diluting the flavor. Consider using coffee ice cubes for an extra boost of coffee flavor that won’t water down your drink.
- Flavorings: Enhance the flavor of your iced coffee boba with various flavorings such as vanilla extract, chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, or flavored syrups. Experiment with different combinations to create unique and delicious flavor profiles that suit your taste preferences.
- Garnishes: Add a decorative touch to your iced coffee boba with garnishes such as whipped cream, chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or a dusting of cocoa powder. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal of your drink but also add extra flavor and texture.
By considering these ingredient notes, you can select high-quality ingredients and customize your iced coffee boba to create a delicious and satisfying beverage that perfectly suits your taste preferences. Experiment with different combinations and variations to discover your favorite homemade iced coffee boba recipe.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Gather Your Ingredients:
- Chilled coffee (brewed coffee or cold brew)
- Tapioca pearls
- Milk or dairy-free alternatives
- Sweetener (optional)
- Ice cubes
- Flavorings (optional)
- Cook Tapioca Pearls:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Add tapioca pearls and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions until the pearls are soft and chewy.
- Once cooked, drain and rinse the pearls under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare Coffee:
- Brew your favorite coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. Alternatively, use cold brew coffee for a smoother flavor.
- Sweeten (Optional):
- If desired, sweeten the coffee with sugar, honey, or flavored syrups to taste. Stir until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
- Assemble the Drink:
- Fill a glass with cooked tapioca pearls.
- Add ice cubes to the glass for extra chill.
- Pour the chilled coffee over the pearls and ice, leaving some space at the top of the glass.
- Add Milk or Dairy-Free Alternative:
- Pour milk or dairy-free alternative over the coffee and tapioca pearls. Adjust the amount based on your preference for creaminess.
- Flavorings (Optional):
- Customize your iced coffee boba with flavorings such as vanilla extract, chocolate syrup, or flavored syrups for an extra burst of flavor.
- Stir Well:
- Use a long spoon or stirrer to mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Ensure that the tapioca pearls are evenly distributed throughout the drink.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel on top for a decorative touch and extra indulgence.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Insert a wide straw into the glass to allow you to sip up the tapioca pearls along with the coffee. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing delight of homemade iced coffee boba!
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily recreate the deliciousness of iced coffee boba at home and customize it to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your perfect cup of this beloved beverage.
History and Origins
The roots of iced coffee boba can be traced back to the vibrant streets of Taiwan in the 1980s. During this time, the trend of bubble tea, also known as boba tea or pearl milk tea, was rapidly gaining popularity. Bubble tea, characterized by its sweet milk tea base and chewy tapioca pearls, captured the taste buds of Taiwanese locals and soon spread to other parts of Asia and beyond.
The evolution of bubble tea paved the way for experimentation with various flavors and ingredients. As coffee culture began to flourish globally, coffee enthusiasts sought new ways to enjoy their favorite beverage. Inspired by the success of bubble tea, entrepreneurs began incorporating coffee into the traditional bubble tea formula, giving rise to iced coffee boba.
The exact origins of iced coffee boba are difficult to pinpoint, but it is believed to have emerged in Taiwan as a creative fusion of coffee and bubble tea. The combination of chilled coffee, creamy milk, and tapioca pearls offered a refreshing alternative to traditional hot coffee drinks, particularly during the hot summer months.
From its humble beginnings in Taiwan, iced coffee boba quickly gained traction across Asia and eventually spread to coffee shops and tea houses worldwide. Today, it is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that continue to captivate taste buds around the globe.
Popular Variations and Flavors
- Classic Iced Coffee Boba: The traditional version features chilled coffee, milk, tapioca pearls, and optional sweetener, providing a simple yet satisfying combination of flavors and textures.
- Mocha Boba: A decadent twist on the classic, mocha boba incorporates chocolate syrup or cocoa powder into the coffee base, adding a rich chocolatey flavor to the drink.
- Vanilla Latte Boba: This variation combines creamy vanilla syrup or vanilla extract with chilled coffee and milk, creating a smooth and aromatic beverage with a hint of sweetness.
- Caramel Macchiato Boba: Inspired by the popular coffeehouse drink, caramel macchiato boba features layers of caramel syrup, milk, chilled coffee, and tapioca pearls, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and bold coffee flavor.
- Hazelnut Boba: Hazelnut syrup or hazelnut-flavored creamer is added to the coffee base along with milk and tapioca pearls, imparting a nutty and aromatic essence to the drink.
- Coconut Boba: Creamy coconut milk or coconut cream is blended with chilled coffee and tapioca pearls, creating a tropical-inspired beverage with a refreshing and indulgent flavor profile.
- Matcha Coffee Boba: A fusion of Japanese matcha green tea and coffee, this unique variation combines matcha powder with chilled coffee, milk, and tapioca pearls, resulting in a vibrant green drink with a harmonious balance of earthy and bitter notes.
- Iced Espresso Boba: For an intense caffeine kick, espresso shots are used as the base of this variation, mixed with milk, sweetener, and tapioca pearls, providing a bold and robust flavor experience.
- Cinnamon Dolce Boba: Cinnamon syrup or ground cinnamon is infused into the coffee base, along with milk and tapioca pearls, creating a warm and comforting beverage reminiscent of a cozy cinnamon roll.
- Irish Cream Boba: This indulgent variation features Irish cream liqueur or Irish cream-flavored syrup mixed with chilled coffee, milk, and tapioca pearls, offering a creamy and slightly boozy twist on the classic iced coffee boba.
These popular variations and flavors showcase the versatility of iced coffee boba, allowing enthusiasts to experiment with different ingredients and combinations to suit their taste preferences and cravings.
Health Benefits and Considerations
- Antioxidants: Coffee, the primary ingredient in iced coffee boba, is rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants have been linked to various health benefits, including reduced inflammation and a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers.
- Energy Boost: The caffeine content in coffee provides a natural energy boost, helping to improve focus, concentration, and cognitive function. However, it’s important to consume caffeine in moderation to avoid potential side effects such as jitteriness, insomnia, and increased heart rate.
- Hydration: While coffee is known for its diuretic properties, the milk and water content in iced coffee boba can contribute to overall hydration. However, it’s essential to balance your intake of caffeinated beverages with plenty of water throughout the day to stay properly hydrated.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: If milk or a milk alternative is used in the preparation of iced coffee boba, it can contribute to your daily intake of calcium and vitamin D, essential nutrients for bone health and overall wellness.
- Tapioca Pearls: Tapioca pearls, the chewy component of boba tea, are made from tapioca starch, which is gluten-free and relatively low in calories. However, they are primarily composed of carbohydrates and offer minimal nutritional value beyond providing energy.
- Sugar Content: Many variations of iced coffee boba include sweeteners such as sugar, syrups, or condensed milk, which can significantly increase the drink’s sugar content. Excessive sugar consumption has been associated with various health issues, including weight gain, diabetes, and tooth decay. Opting for unsweetened or lightly sweetened versions and controlling portion sizes can help mitigate this concern.
- Caloric Content: Depending on the ingredients and portion sizes, iced coffee boba can be relatively high in calories. It’s essential to be mindful of your overall calorie intake, especially if you’re watching your weight or trying to maintain a healthy diet.
- Individual Sensitivities: Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to ingredients commonly found in iced coffee boba, such as caffeine, dairy, or tapioca pearls. If you have dietary restrictions or sensitivities, be sure to check the ingredients list and choose options that align with your needs.
- Serving Size: Enjoying iced coffee boba as an occasional treat can be a delightful way to indulge in a flavorful beverage. However, consuming large quantities regularly may lead to excessive caffeine or calorie intake. Moderation is key to enjoying the health benefits of iced coffee boba while minimizing potential drawbacks.
By considering these health benefits and considerations, you can make informed choices about incorporating iced coffee boba into your diet as part of a balanced and mindful approach to nutrition and wellness.
Serving and Presentation
- Glassware: Iced coffee boba is typically served in clear, transparent glasses to showcase the vibrant colors of the drink and the tapioca pearls. Tall glasses with wide openings are ideal for accommodating the drink, ice cubes, and tapioca pearls.
- Straws: Wide straws, often referred to as boba straws or bubble tea straws, are essential for sipping the tapioca pearls along with the chilled coffee. These straws are wider than traditional straws to allow the tapioca pearls to pass through easily.
- Layering: For visually appealing presentation, consider layering the ingredients in the glass. Start with a base layer of tapioca pearls, followed by ice cubes, coffee, milk or creamer, and any additional flavorings or toppings.
- Garnishes: Add a finishing touch to your iced coffee boba with garnishes such as whipped cream, chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or a dusting of cocoa powder. These decorative elements not only enhance the visual appeal but also add extra flavor and texture to the drink.
- Stirring and Mixing: Before serving, give the iced coffee boba a gentle stir to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This helps to blend the flavors and ensures that each sip offers a balanced combination of coffee, milk, and tapioca pearls.
- Chilling: Serve iced coffee boba ice-cold for maximum refreshment. You can chill the glasses in the freezer beforehand or add extra ice cubes to keep the drink cold and refreshing.
- Customization: Encourage creativity and customization by offering a variety of options for customers to personalize their iced coffee boba. This may include different flavors, milk alternatives, sweetness levels, and topping choices to cater to individual preferences.
- Presentation: Pay attention to the overall presentation of the drink, including cleanliness, organization, and attention to detail. A well-presented iced coffee boba not only looks enticing but also enhances the overall dining experience for customers.
- Accompaniments: Consider offering complementary snacks or treats to enjoy alongside iced coffee boba, such as pastries, cookies, or light bites. This adds value to the overall serving experience and encourages customers to linger and enjoy their drinks.
By focusing on serving and presentation, you can elevate the enjoyment of iced coffee boba and create a memorable and visually appealing experience for customers. Whether served in a cafe, restaurant, or at home, attention to detail and thoughtful presentation enhance the enjoyment of this popular beverage.
Best Places to Enjoy Iced Coffee Boba
- Specialty Cafes and Coffee Shops: Many specialty cafes and coffee shops offer a variety of boba tea options, including iced coffee boba. These establishments often focus on quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations, providing a premium experience for coffee and bubble tea enthusiasts.
- Asian Tea Houses and Bubble Tea Shops: Traditional Asian tea houses and bubble tea shops are renowned for their wide selection of bubble tea flavors, including iced coffee boba. These establishments often specialize in authentic bubble tea preparations and offer a cozy atmosphere to enjoy your drink.
- Local Food Trucks and Pop-Up Stands: Keep an eye out for local food trucks or pop-up stands that specialize in bubble tea and other specialty beverages. These mobile vendors often offer unique and innovative twists on classic drinks, including refreshing iced coffee boba.
- Boba Tea Chains: Many boba tea chains and franchises have expanded their menu offerings to include iced coffee boba alongside their traditional bubble tea options. These chains often have multiple locations, making it convenient to satisfy your craving for iced coffee boba wherever you are.
- Artisanal Cafes and Bakeries: Artisanal cafes and bakeries are increasingly incorporating specialty beverages like iced coffee boba into their menu offerings. These establishments focus on handcrafted and locally sourced ingredients, providing a unique and memorable experience for customers.
- Cozy Neighborhood Cafes: Explore your local neighborhood for cozy cafes and bistros that offer a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse selection of beverages. These hidden gems often provide a welcoming environment to enjoy a refreshing iced coffee boba while catching up with friends or working remotely.
- Ethnic Neighborhoods: Venture into ethnic neighborhoods known for their culinary diversity to discover authentic bubble tea shops and tea houses that serve delicious iced coffee boba. These establishments often offer a glimpse into different cultures and traditions, adding an extra layer of excitement to your beverage experience.
- Online Delivery Services: In today’s digital age, many boba tea shops and cafes offer online ordering and delivery services, allowing you to enjoy your favorite iced coffee boba from the comfort of your home or office. Simply place your order online and have it delivered straight to your doorstep.
- DIY at Home: Lastly, don’t forget that you can also enjoy delicious iced coffee boba right in your own home by following DIY recipes and tips. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your perfect cup of iced coffee boba whenever the craving strikes.
Whether you prefer to explore local cafes and tea houses or indulge in the convenience of online delivery services, there are plenty of options available to enjoy the delightful refreshment of iced coffee boba wherever you go.
Cultural Significance and Trends
- Asian Influence: Iced coffee boba has deep cultural roots in Asian countries, particularly Taiwan, where bubble tea originated. Its popularity has since spread globally, becoming a beloved beverage in many parts of the world. The cultural significance of boba tea lies in its association with social gatherings, leisurely outings, and a sense of community.
- Cross-Cultural Fusion: Iced coffee boba represents a fusion of Western and Eastern culinary traditions, blending the familiarity of coffee with the unique texture and flavors of tapioca pearls. This cross-cultural exchange reflects the growing interconnectedness of global food and beverage trends.
- Social Media Phenomenon: Iced coffee boba has become a social media sensation, with enthusiasts sharing photos and videos of their colorful and creatively crafted beverages on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. This online visibility has contributed to the widespread popularity and cultural influence of iced coffee boba among younger generations.
- Innovative Flavors and Variations: As the demand for iced coffee boba continues to grow, cafes and tea houses are innovating with new flavors and variations to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From classic combinations to adventurous concoctions, the variety of iced coffee boba flavors reflects the ever-evolving nature of culinary trends.
- Health and Wellness Focus: With an increased emphasis on health and wellness, there is a growing demand for healthier versions of iced coffee boba made with natural ingredients, reduced sugar options, and plant-based milk alternatives. This shift in consumer preferences reflects a broader trend towards mindful eating and lifestyle choices.
- Cultural Exchange and Appreciation: Iced coffee boba serves as a symbol of cultural exchange and appreciation, fostering connections between people from different backgrounds and fostering a sense of inclusivity and diversity. Its widespread popularity transcends cultural boundaries, bringing people together through a shared love of delicious beverages.
- Mainstream Acceptance: Iced coffee boba has transitioned from niche specialty drink to mainstream beverage, with many cafes, restaurants, and fast-food chains now offering their own versions of the drink. This widespread availability reflects its growing acceptance and integration into mainstream food and beverage culture.
- DIY Culture: The rise of DIY culture has empowered individuals to recreate their favorite iced coffee boba at home, experimenting with different ingredients and recipes to customize their drinks to perfection. This DIY approach reflects a desire for authenticity, creativity, and hands-on involvement in the beverage-making process.
Conclusion: Refreshing Delight of Iced Coffee Boba
In a world where culinary innovation meets cultural exchange, iced coffee boba stands out as a refreshing delight that transcends borders and captivates taste buds with its unique blend of flavors and textures. From its humble origins in Taiwan to its widespread popularity around the globe, iced coffee boba has become more than just a trendy beverage—it’s a symbol of cross-cultural fusion, creativity, and shared enjoyment.
The journey of iced coffee boba takes us on a flavorful exploration of tradition and innovation, as coffee meets tapioca pearls in a harmonious union of East and West. Its cultural significance lies not only in its association with social gatherings and leisurely outings but also in its ability to foster connections between people from diverse backgrounds.
As we embrace the refreshing delight of iced coffee boba, we celebrate the rich tapestry of culinary traditions that inspire and delight us. Whether enjoyed at specialty cafes, local tea houses, or in the comfort of our own homes, iced coffee boba invites us to savor the moment, indulge our senses, and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.
So let us raise our glasses—filled with chilled coffee, chewy tapioca pearls, and a touch of sweetness—to toast to the joy of discovery, the beauty of cultural exchange, and the refreshing delight of iced coffee boba. Here’s to many more shared moments of laughter, conversation, and pure enjoyment over this beloved beverage. Cheers!
Homemade Iced Coffee Boba
Equipment
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Spoon or spatula for stirring
- 2 Tall glasses
- 2 Wide straws
Ingredients
- ½ cup tapioca pearls
- 2 cups brewed coffee chilled
- ½ cup milk dairy or non-dairy
- 2 tablespoons sugar adjust to taste
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Optional flavorings: vanilla extract chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, etc.
Instructions
Cook Tapioca Pearls
- Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add tapioca pearls and stir gently. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the pearls are soft and chewy, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pearls and rinse them under cold water. Set aside.
Prepare Coffee
- Brew your favorite coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. You can also use cold brew coffee for a smoother flavor.
Sweeten Coffee
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled coffee with sugar, adjusting the sweetness to your preference. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Assemble the Drink
- Divide the cooked tapioca pearls between two tall glasses. Add ice cubes to each glass.
Pour Coffee Over Pearls
- Pour the sweetened coffee over the ice and tapioca pearls, dividing it evenly between the glasses.
Add Milk
- Pour milk into each glass, adjusting the amount based on your preference for creaminess.
Optional Flavorings
- If desired, add a splash of vanilla extract or a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce to each glass for extra flavor.
Stir Well
- Use a long spoon or straw to stir each drink thoroughly, ensuring that all the ingredients are well mixed.
Serve and Enjoy
- Insert wide straws into each glass and serve immediately. Sip and enjoy the delightful combination of coffee, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls!
Notes
- Experiment with different flavorings and milk alternatives to customize your iced coffee boba to suit your taste preferences.
- You can store any leftover tapioca pearls in simple syrup in the refrigerator for future use.
- Enjoy your homemade iced coffee boba as a refreshing treat on a hot day or as a special indulgence anytime you crave it.