COSY VALENTINE'S DAY RECIPE INSPIRED BY COAT CHECK
DIRTY CACAO, STAR ANISE COLD FOAM
Zoë Johnston, founder of Spilt Milk, a New York–based culinary production studio, created a Dirty Cacao recipe inspired by Coat Check.
A perfect winter, cosy Valentine’s Day treat. Both grounding and bittersweet, this drink pairs deep cacao with espresso and a softly spiced star anise cold foam for a ritual that feels both warming and clean.
“This is my winter afternoon drink — both coffee and dessert but not overwhelmingly either. It’s earthy, a little bitter, and quietly comforting. The star anise adds just enough lift to keep it from feeling heavy.” — Zoë
YOU’LL NEED —
CACAO BASE
1 tbsp high-quality cacao powder
6–8 oz milk of choice (oat and whole tend to work best)
1 shot espresso (or very strong coffee)
Sweetener (I use maple), to taste (optional)
Pinch of salt
STAR ANISE COLD FOAM
¼ cup heavy cream (or barista oat cream)
1–2 tbsp milk
1 star anise
Optional: maple syrup and/or vanilla
TO MAKE —
Gently warm the cream and milk with the star anise over low heat until steaming — do not boil.
Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 5–10 minutes. Strain out the star anise and chill slightly.
In a mug, whisk the cacao powder, salt, and sweetener with a small splash of hot water or milk until smooth and glossy.
Heat the remaining milk and add it to the mug, then stir in the espresso.
Froth the star anise cream until thick and airy. Spoon generously over the cacao and finish with a light dusting of cacao powder or simple star, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.
A cosy winter treat, made for Valentine’s Day.
