What Is Coffee Milk? An Insider’s Guide from a Rhode Islander

Rhode Island’s Coffee Milk: A Sweet Tradition with a Bright Future

Rhode Island, the nation’s smallest state, is renowned not only for its picturesque landscapes but also for its unique culinary contributions, especially the beloved drink, coffee milk. Originating in the 1920s, this iconic beverage combines milk with a sweetened coffee syrup, a delicious legacy brought to the state by Italian immigrants. Its popularity surged, leading to the creation of thick coffee syrup that would change how coffee was consumed in the region. In 1993, coffee milk was officially designated as Rhode Island’s state drink.

Two major brands, Autocrat and Eclipse, have historically dominated the market for coffee syrup, with Autocrat now being the most recognized. The syrup has also found its way into beer, featuring in the Narragansett Coffee Milk Stout. Craft versions, like those from Dave’s Coffee, offer a modern twist, made with high-quality ingredients. Dave Lanning, owner of Dave’s Coffee, emphasizes the importance of coffee milk in Rhode Island’s cultural identity, stating that it evokes cherished memories and a sense of heritage.

Coffee milk itself resembles a sweetened latte or melted coffee ice cream, enjoyed by mixing syrup with milk. Its versatility extends beyond the traditional drink, with uses in shakes, oatmeal, and even cocktails. Lanning plans to introduce a cookbook dedicated to coffee milk recipes, further cementing its status in local cuisine.

With local entrepreneurs like Lanning pushing the boundaries of this classic drink, Rhode Island’s coffee milk is set to thrive in the culinary scene, remaining a cherished part of the state’s identity for generations to come. As Rhode Islanders embrace coffee milk not just as a drink but as a cultural symbol, its legacy continues to grow, inviting all to share in the experience.

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Photo credit www.foodandwine.com