As much as I would prefer to drink fresh brewed coffee or get a grande Cinnamon Dolce Latte from Starbucks, it's not always possible to do either, so, as a caffeine addict, I am never without a jar of some type of instant coffee at home or on my desk at work.

There are a few different varieties of instant coffee. Right now I have Folgers Classic Roast at home, although I have bought the individually wrapped bags of Folgers as well. I don't think they are nearly as strong, and they don't taste as good. If I need an extra kick, I will buy a jar of instant Cuban espresso. Cafe Pilon is one of the brands that makes it. Unfortunately, it's more then $4 for a small jar, so I don't indulge often.

If I want a treat or the illusion of a flavored Starbucks type coffee, I have two different options. Sometimes I will buy the General Mills flavored powdered coffees. They make all kinds of fantastic flavors, and they even make some of them in sugar free and decaffeinated varieties. I don't know how much caffeine they have in them on their own, but I always add a teaspoon of instant. Another flavored option is putting a teaspoon of instant coffee in to a cup of hot cocoa and adding some milk or cream to make a mocha.

For me, creativity is the key. I would much rather a yummy, fresh cup of real coffee or something sweet and frothy, but when I can't have that, I am glad there are so many options with instant coffee.

Learn more about this author, Debbie N.
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