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Dive into our blog for the latest coffee insights, from new releases and expert reviews to educational content and sustainability efforts. Explore stories from the roastery, learn about coffee origins, and discover delicious recipes.
At the Roastery
Picking out new coffees is really exciting for us. It's like going on a treasure hunt every time, looking forward to what we'll discover. We start with so many options and end up choosing just a few that really stand out when we roast them.
Start with the Crop Calendar
Our journey starts by checking a coffee crop calendar to see what's coming up. Every country with upcoming lots is an exciting opportunity. We have an idea of what to expect from each country's coffee, but there's always something unexpected and awesome in every crop. We're always excited to see what each country brings to the table this season!
Chat with our Importers
We have connections with some great importers, both men and women, though we jokingly say, "we know a guy." When we have specific countries in mind for sourcing coffee, we reach out to them.These importers update us on the coffees they're getting from the countries we're interested in. They provide detailed information about each batch, including descriptions, flavor profiles, and their own tasting notes. Naturally, we also consider the prices to keep it affordable while also maintaining the level of quality we require.
Request Some Samples
We ask for samples of the coffees that catch our eye. While some might not live up to expectations, others can be absolutely stunning. Even with the detailed notes provided, it's hard to predict how a coffee will truly be until we get a sample in hand.These samples arrive as small packages of green beans, weighing between 200 to 250 grams. For those not used to metric measurements, that's a very small amount – just enough for us to roast a single, small batch. It's a bit of a tightrope walk, but it's all part of the process!
The Cupping Begins
After we've roasted the samples, it's time for cupping, which is like a serious ceremony for us. We each taste the coffees quietly on our own. It's a personal moment, just us and the coffee, quietly pondering our own discoveries.Once we've all done our individual cupping and have our own opinions, we gather to talk about each coffee. The room soon buzzes with lively conversation as we all eagerly share our thoughts and notes on each sample. Everyone gets to speak their mind because we've all been part of this journey from the start.
Making the Final Selection
At last, we've come to the conclusion of our quest. From a wide array of options, we've whittled it down to just a handful of coffees that we'll order. Through animated debates, we agree on which varieties will perfectly match our roasting styles. Once we decide, we place our orders and eagerly await their arrival. The highlight of this entire process? Getting to share these incredible finds with our customers.
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At the Roastery
If you're new to the world of high-quality coffee or eager to enhance your home brewing experience beyond the realm of bitter, pre-ground coffee, this guide is designed to assist you.
Embarking on a gourmet or specialty coffee journey can swiftly become a costly endeavor, and not everyone may be prepared for such an initial investment. Moreover, the required time and dedication often become more appealing once you've seen some early positive outcomes. With this in mind, here's a guide to acquiring brewing equipment for high-quality home coffee, all for $100 or less.
Step 1: Get yourself a good burr grinder
This Cuisinart burr grinder is a great entry level model for $60.
There are multiple advantages to using a burr grinder for coffee as opposed to a blade grinder, typically used for spices. In my view, the uniformity of the grind alone justifies spending a bit more on a basic burr grinder. The quality of your coffee hinges on the interaction between water and the coffee grounds, and achieving a uniform extraction and flavor depends on the consistency of the grind size.
A burr grinder ensures that your coffee grounds are evenly sized, leading to a more balanced and predictable cup of coffee. The Cuisinart is an excellent choice for those beginning their journey with burr grinders, based on my personal experience. Its reliability and performance make it a worthwhile investment for any coffee enthusiast looking to elevate their brewing process.
Step 2: Buy an Aeropress
The Aeropress has been a great brewer, whether at home or on the road, for $35.
The Aeropress, a relatively recent innovation in the coffee world, is officially categorized as an immersion/steeping brewer. There's much to discuss about the Aeropress, with opinions ranging from highly favorable to a few criticisms. To summarize, it offers a rapid, straightforward, and portable way to make coffee. Additionally, its affordability adds to its appeal.
To get the best results with the Aeropress, follow the instructions included in the kit. For an enhanced experience, use freshly roasted whole beans purchased from a local source. This combination of quality beans and the efficient brewing method of the Aeropress is sure to yield an excellent-tasting coffee that will surely be a delightful addition to your daily routine. This method not only brings out the best in your coffee but also allows you to appreciate the subtle flavors and aromas that high-quality beans offer.
Step 3: Slowly Pick Up Additional Gear
Remember, even with basic equipment, there's always room for improvement. I suggest gradually incorporating tools like a timer (your phone works great for this) to perfect your brew time. A kitchen scale is also valuable for accurately measuring coffee and water. Additionally, consider getting a kettle for boiling water and a water filter to ensure the best possible taste and quality of your coffee.
Get Brewing!
Remember, even with basic equipment, there's always room for improvement. I suggest gradually incorporating tools like a timer (your phone works great for this) to perfect your brew time. A kitchen scale is also valuable for accurately measuring coffee and water. Additionally, consider getting a kettle for boiling water and a water filter to ensure the best possible taste and quality of your coffee.
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At the Roastery
People that drink coffee at home infrequently or buy large quantities of coffee want to store coffee for a long time. And it ends up in the refrigerator! For vegetables and other food, cold temperatures stem growth and keeps things fresher for longer. In essence, their shelf life is extended.
Storing coffee in the refrigerator isn't recommended. Coffee beans, including ground coffee, are actually seeds, not the plant or leaves of the coffee tree. When we roast green coffee beans, they lose moisture and begin to develop sugars through a process called caramelization. Because of this loss of moisture, they become more eager to absorb water, making the fridge, with its high moisture environment, not an ideal place for them.
Inside a refrigerator, there's quite a bit of moisture - you'll notice it as soon as you open the door. This environment causes both whole and ground coffee beans to absorb moisture quickly. Essentially, this starts the brewing process prematurely. So, when you eventually use beans or grounds that have been stored in the fridge, you're actually using coffee that is stale and has already begun brewing. Coffee like this won’t taste fresh or pleasant, which is why it's not a good idea to keep your coffee in the refrigerator.
The question of storing coffee in the freezer is still up for discussion. However, we believe that freshly roasted coffee is unbeatable. The key is to protect it from oxygen, moisture, and light, which speed up the aging process. Our coffee bags are specially crafted for effective storage. Simply press out as much air as you can when you seal the bag. The built-in valve and zipper are designed to keep oxygen out, helping your coffee stay fresh.
Keep Away from Air, Moisture, and Light
Why It Matters: Air, moisture, and light are the main culprits that cause coffee to lose its freshness and flavor. When exposed to these elements, coffee beans start to oxidize, which can lead to a stale taste. Moisture can trigger the brewing process even before the coffee is actually brewed, while light can degrade the quality of the beans.
Our Special Packaging: To combat these issues, our coffee is packed in specially designed bags. These bags are not just any ordinary packaging; they are engineered to provide an almost airtight environment. This helps in significantly reducing the exposure to air and moisture. Additionally, the material of the bag is opaque to protect the beans from light, ensuring that the coffee's rich flavors and aromas are well-preserved until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Store in a Cool, Dark Place
Importance of Temperature and Light Conditions: Heat can accelerate the degradation of coffee beans, altering their flavor profile. Similarly, as mentioned earlier, light exposure can negatively affect the beans.
Ideal Storage Location: A cupboard or a pantry that is away from sources of heat like ovens, stoves, or direct sunlight is ideal. This environment ensures that the beans are kept in a stable, cool condition, which is crucial for maintaining their freshness and flavor integrity over time.
Grind Just Before Brewing
Freshness and Flavor: Grinding coffee beans right before brewing is perhaps one of the most significant steps you can take to ensure a delicious cup of coffee. Once coffee beans are ground, they start to lose their flavor rapidly due to increased exposure to air and moisture.
Maximizing Taste: By grinding the beans just before brewing, you are ensuring that the coffee’s full flavor profile is intact. This results in a more aromatic and flavorful cup of coffee. It’s the difference between a good cup of coffee and a great one. The fresh grind releases the oils and flavors that are at their peak just after grinding, giving you the freshest and most robust flavor possible.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that each cup of coffee you brew is as fresh and flavorful as possible, bringing out the best in our carefully crafted beans.
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Education
If you're a coffee enthusiast in Minnesota, you've likely come across terms like natural processed, washed, or honey-processed coffees. But what do these terms truly signify? Different coffee processing methods, including those used by Minnesota coffee roasters, create distinct flavor profiles. It's essential to grasp the fundamentals of coffee processing before selecting your next coffee bean bag. Here's a brief guide to the most common processing methods.
Natural Processed Coffees
The natural process, also known as the dry process, is the oldest and most traditional approach to coffee processing. It's notably uncomplicated, requiring no machinery or water. However, producing natural processed coffees can be challenging due to their reliance on favorable weather conditions for drying.
In the natural processing method, coffee cherries are left to air dry until they reach the desired moisture level. During this period, the cherries lose water content and shrink in size. Once they achieve the required moisture level, the dried cherries undergo hulling, a process that removes the outer layer and unveils the green coffee bean inside.
Drying coffee cherries in open air often results in a distinctive fruity flavor profile. Nevertheless, this method carries the risk of fermentation, potentially imparting a more acidic taste. Despite this, many coffee aficionados relish the vibrant and zesty notes associated with this processing method.
Washed Processed Coffees
The wet process, also called washed coffee, is the second most common coffee processing method. Originating in Ethiopia during the 1930s, this technique employs water to separate coffee beans from the pulp.
Washed coffees involve immersing coffee beans in water-filled tanks for a duration of 12 to 36 hours. This step effectively eliminates any residual fruit residue and pulp. Subsequently, the coffee cherries undergo a de-pulping process, which removes the skin and flesh, leaving behind the green coffee bean.
Following the washing, the beans are spread on elevated beds or tables and left to sun-dry for approximately two weeks. Once dried, they undergo sorting before being roasted. Washed coffees generally offer a cleaner taste compared to natural coffees, with fewer fruity flavors that may result from fermentation during drying.
Honey Processed Coffees
The honey process is a variation of the natural method, developed relatively recently in Costa Rica during the 1970s. In this approach, only part of the fruit surrounding the coffee bean is removed before drying, allowing some of the fruit's sugars to be absorbed by the bean, resulting in a sweeter flavor.
To create honey processed coffees, coffee cherries undergo a de-pulping process similar to washed coffees. However, in this case, some of the mucilage (sticky substance) from the fruit remains attached to the bean. The beans are then spread out in thin layers and sun-dried for about two weeks. After drying, they are hulled and sorted before roasting.
Honey processed coffees offer a balance between natural and washed coffees in terms of complexity. This means that even after roasting, honey processed coffees retain some sweetness and body from the fruit.
Other Less Common Processes
Aside from the three primary methods, there are lesser-known coffee processing techniques such as anaerobic fermentation, carbonic maceration, and wet hulling.
Anaerobic fermentation involves sealing freshly picked coffee cherries in an oxygen-free environment, encouraging unique flavors through bacterial growth.
Carbonic maceration, found mainly in Central America, entails placing coffee cherries in sealed containers filled with carbon dioxide to encourage bacterial growth, resulting in fruity or floral notes.
Wet hulling, prevalent in Indonesia, involves removing the outer layer of wet coffee cherries before drying, often yielding earthy flavors.
As you can see, the journey from coffee cherries to your morning cup is more intricate than you might have imagined. Different processing methods create distinct flavors, whether fruity or earthy. So, next time you pick up a bag of coffee beans at your local roaster, take a moment to discover how those beans were processed—you might find your new favorite cup of coffee!
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At the Roastery
Embarking on the journey into specialty coffee, the most significant leap towards enhancing flavor is to acquire a good set of barista scales and begin measuring your coffee. While some may view this as excessive, the impact it has is substantial. As you delve into the world of weights and brewing ratios, the old ways of using scoops and approximations will quickly become a thing of the past!
Understanding Coffee-to-Water Ratios
In the realm of coffee, achieving the ideal coffee-to-water ratio plays a pivotal role in crafting an outstanding brew. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast in Big Lake, MN, or have a penchant for air roasting in Minnesota, grasping this ratio is vital to unlock the full potential of your coffee.
What Is A Coffee-To-Water Ratio?
Simply put, a coffee-to-water ratio is the measurement of how much coffee is required for the volume of water you intend to use for brewing, or vice versa.
This ratio varies depending on the brewing technique you employ and your preferred coffee strength. While the latter is a matter of personal taste, the former involves intriguing scientific considerations.
The Science Behind TDS in Coffee
The art of coffee brewing involves an extraction process. When hot water interacts with coffee grounds, it extracts the flavors embedded in the beans. This flavor-rich liquid becomes our beloved coffee. However, not every part of the coffee bean contributes to the flavor, which is why monitoring and controlling the extraction process is crucial.
The benchmark for this control is often expressed as a standard percentage of dissolved solids in the water – TDS (total dissolved solids) quantifies the extent to which coffee compounds have dissolved in our brewing water. Extract too much, and your coffee turns heavy and bitter; extract too little, and it becomes insipid and sour.
Achieving the Optimal TDS%
Each brewing method, including its precise measurements and timings, has been thoroughly studied by coffee professionals and is recognized as the most effective way to attain the ideal TDS and, consequently, flavor.
The primary variables in these recipes include:
The coffee-to-water ratio.
The duration of coffee-water contact.
The brewing pressure applied.
When one of these factors changes, adjustments to the other two are necessary to maintain the superior taste of coffee.
Let’s examine two vastly different brewing methods: the French press and espresso.
Comparing Brewing Ratios Across Methods
Espresso, renowned for its intense flavor, operates under high pressure (9 bars) and has minimal contact time between coffee and water—hence, it demands a relatively high coffee-to-water ratio for achieving the desired flavor. Typically, espresso employs a 1:2 ratio, meaning if you use 18g of coffee, you can expect an output of 36g of espresso—a preference cherished by many Minnesota coffee roasters.
In contrast, preparing French press coffee involves minimal pressure and extended brewing time in minutes, allowing water to thoroughly extract the rich flavors from the ground beans. Consequently, the coffee-to-water ratio adjusts to accommodate these factors. The accepted range for the coffee-to-water ratio in a French press can vary from 1:12 to 1:18, catering to diverse taste preferences. This implies that you'll brew approximately 15g of coffee in roughly 225g of water per person.
Once you embrace the use of brewing ratios, your home coffee endeavors will experience an instant enhancement, with minimal effort required to significantly elevate the flavor.
Exploring Brewing Ratios for Various Methods
Now, let's delve into how brewing ratios differ among various methods, from traditional drip coffee to the trendy espresso:
Espresso: Espresso, celebrated for its boldness, typically adheres to a 1:2 ratio (coffee to water). In simpler terms, using 18g of coffee yields 36g of espresso, making it a favored choice among Minnesota coffee roasters.
Manual Pour Over: For those who savor a more delicate brew, the ratio hovers around 1:16, allowing for a balanced and nuanced flavor profile.
French Press: Due to its extended extraction time, French press coffee adopts ratios ranging from 1:12 to 1:17, catering to diverse taste preferences.
Moka Pot: This stovetop classic thrives with a ratio of roughly 1:10, delivering a rich and concentrated coffee experience.
Aeropress: The versatile Aeropress offers flexibility, with ratios spanning from 1:6 to 1:12, accommodating both bold and milder brews.
Embracing Precision - Measuring with Grams
Consistency holds the key to successful coffee brewing, underscoring the significance of precision. Incorporating a dependable coffee scale into your brewing routine becomes imperative. In this context, grams, not casual scoops, become the standard unit of measurement, particularly for Minnesota air roasting enthusiasts on a quest for the perfect cup.
These scales are meticulously designed to withstand the rigorous demands of coffee preparation, ensuring precision and enabling meticulous adjustments to brewing ratios.
Whether you're situated in Big Lake, MN, or any corner of the world, mastering the coffee-to-water ratio embarks you on a journey toward exceptional coffee experiences. Embrace the amalgamation of art and science in brewing, and you'll relish every cup from your preferred Minnesota coffee roaster.
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Education
It might sound odd, but a tiny pinch of salt can cut the bitterness of black coffee, making it easier to enjoy. In this guide, we’ll share alternatives to cream and sugar, and show you how to brew a cup of black coffee that you’ll truly savor.
What is Black Coffee?
Black coffee is coffee brewed with water and enjoyed without any additives such as dairy products, sweeteners, or flavoring.
Why Do We Add Cream and Sugar to Coffee?
Plainly put, sometimes coffee just doesn’t taste good by itself. Sometimes it’s thin, bitter, sour, or lacking depth. So adding things like dairy products, sugar, or flavoring helps to improve the enjoyment of coffee.
Dairy products, and their alternatives, improve two factors. First, they add texture and creaminess to coffee, improving the mouthfeel which is vital to enjoying coffee. Second, the fat from dairy or alternatives smooths out coffee’s bitterness.
Sweeteners like sugar, honey, Splenda, or Stevia not only sweeten your cup, they cut the bitterness of coffee.
What Makes Coffee Bitter?
Bitterness is naturally produced while coffee solubles are extracted during the coffee brewing process. Coffee’s soluble materials include caffeine, acids, sugars, lipids, and carbohydrates, all of which contribute to coffee’s flavor. Chlorogenic acid is the particular acid to blame for coffee’s bitterness. Though this acid is found in all coffee, that doesn’t mean all coffee needs to taste unpleasantly bitter.
There is a science and an art to producing a balanced cup of coffee. This starts with the varietal of bean used. Arabica beans have significantly fewer chlorogenic acids than its sibling, Robusta, which is one of the primary reasons Arabica is the most popular varietal of coffee bean consumed. But how the coffee is roasted and how it’s brewed also contribute to producing a balanced and pleasant cup of coffee.
During the roasting process, chlorogenic acids are broken down into lactones and phenylindanes. Acid lactones contribute to a pleasant coffee-like bitterness, whereas phenylindanes contribute to the unpleasant type of bitterness we desire to mask. The longer coffee is roasted, the higher the presence of phenylindanes. This is why darker roasted coffees taste more bitter than lighter or medium roasted coffees.
During the brewing process, coffee that is over-extracted will also taste bitter. This is because the bitter-tasting solubles overwhelm the sweet solubles. To learn how to not over-extract or under-extract your coffee, learn about brewing on our Coffee Brewing Basics guide.
Benefits of Drinking Black Coffee
When drunk black, coffee is a zero-calorie beverage. And though not a recommended source of nutrition, it does contain micronutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and niacin, as well as very small amounts of sodium. Coffee also contains antioxidants and vitamins like B2, B3, and B5. Adding cream and sugar to your coffee can turn it into a high-caloric and unhealthy beverage. So if you’re looking to lose weight or improve your health, consider taking your coffee black.
Caffeine in Black Coffee
When measuring caffeine content, espresso typically has a greater amount of caffeine than batch brewed coffee. But dilution must be considered when measuring caffeine consumption. When espresso is added to milk or water, its caffeine content is greatly diluted. The same is true when creamer is added to a cup of coffee—its volume increases without increasing its caffeine content. So when switching to taking your coffee black, keep in mind your caffeine consumption may increase since you’re not diluting it with anything.
Alternatives to Sugar in Coffee
If you find yourself with a bitter cup of coffee and need to cut it with a sweetener, there are many alternatives to sugar.
Honey: A healthier and natural alternative to sugar. Especially when locally sourced, honey contains antioxidants and other micronutrients.
Stevia: A natural sweetener that comes from the leaves of the stevia plant. Stevia comes in a powder form that is great for convenience. Stevia does have a noticeable flavor that can impact the coffee’s taste.
Synthetic sweeteners: Have long been the easy alternative to sugar. Just be mindful of the amount you use; they’re far sweeter than sugar.
Agave syrup: Another natural alternative that dissolves really well in coffee. It also doesn’t impact quite as much flavor as alternatives like Stevia.
Alternatives to Milk in Coffee
Though we prefer milk from a local pasture-raised dairy, there are now more alternatives than ever to use in coffee.
Oat milk: Quickly rising as the most popular alternative to dairy. It tends to impart less flavor than soy or almond milk.
Almond milk: A great option, especially for cold coffee beverages. Its almond flavor tends to pair well with most coffees.
Hemp milk: A bit harder to find but is another great choice. It also contains more iron than cow’s milk.
Cashew milk: Quickly becoming a favorite. It provides a creamy texture without the additives found in oat and almond milk.
How to Make Black Coffee
Switching to taking your coffee black doesn’t mean you have to enjoy your coffee less. In fact, people who solely drink coffee black often do so because they enjoy it more.
Start with quality coffee beans from a local Minnesota roaster, such as Ember Coffee. That's step number one! Coffee that is over-roasted, low quality, or old, will produce an unbearable bitter cup. So start with fresh beans that are light to medium roasted and preferably, whole bean.
Then upgrade your grinder. Grinding your coffee fresh and taking the time to grind them at the appropriate fineness will produce a juicy and balanced cup that’ll make you completely forget about your creamer. Coffee that is ground too fine will over-extract and make your cup taste bitter. Coffee ground to coarse will under-extract and taste sour.
Lastly, find a brew method that works best for your preferences and schedule. We guarantee that if you master your brew method by following our brew guides, you won’t miss cream and sugar for a moment.
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At the Roastery
Single origin coffee is coffee from a single source that emphasizes the subtle flavors of that region. Blends emphasize a specific flavor profile. To achieve the desired flavor profile, roasters combine multiple single origin coffees. We break down the details below, bringing our experience as a small-scale Minnesota coffee roaster to the table.
What does it mean when a coffee is named after a country's region? Or what exactly is a coffee blend? Ember Coffee is located here in Big Lake, MN, to help you sort through the differences between single origin and blended coffees, which is better, and which is best for you.
What exactly is single origin coffee?
We define single origin coffee as beans from a single source, such as a farm or even a lot within that farm, and from a single harvest. It could even be as specific as a single coffee varietal processed in a single way. The goal of single origin coffee is to highlight the nuance created by mother nature through terroir—the location, the weather, and the soil.
As a boutique roaster in Minnesota, right here in Big Lake actually, we embrace the variability of single origin coffees, which will never taste the same year after year. You’re tasting a singular place and a moment in time, which is what makes single origin coffees so special.
What exactly is coffee traceability?
As a small but passionate Minnesota coffee roaster, we understand that coffee traceability has become vital for specialty-grade coffee roasters and their customers. Traceable coffee contains detailed information about where and how the coffee was grown, processed, and how much each person was paid along the way. This transparency promotes equitability and sustainability, as well as education about how all aspects of coffee's life affect flavor.
What is the difference between single origin and blends?
Blends highlight a specific flavor profile, whereas single origin coffees highlight the nuance of a region. Blends are designed to provide flavor consistency for those who want their coffee to taste the same in every cup. As an example, we, as a local air roaster in Big Lake, MN, might make a dark roast coffee with a flavor profile of baking spices and chocolate. We'll find several single origin coffees that, when combined, will produce that profile. This means that coffee blends can be made available all year, offering a reliable taste experience.
Which is superior: single origin coffee or blended coffee?
When deciding between a single origin and a coffee blend, start with what you want in your cup of coffee. From our small corner in Big Lake, MN, we've observed that coffee blends often provide a well-balanced cup that has been carefully crafted by the roaster. Single-origin coffees are more daring, adventurous, and complex. You'll be able to taste the full flavor spectrum of coffee by exploring regions, varietals, and processing techniques. These coffees are frequently enhanced by manual brewing methods such as pour overs.
What characteristics distinguish a good single origin?
From our experience as a boutique roaster in Minnesota, we believe the coffee roaster's role is to bring out the flavor that is already present in the bean, not to add anything else. The flavor of the bean tells a story about the plant's life—the rain, soil fertilization, elevation, sunlight, and temperature. And that story reflects how well the farmer cared for it. When choosing a single origin coffee, look for these stories. The roaster's and producer's attention to detail will be reflected in the beans.
What characteristics distinguish a good coffee blend?
Creating a blend is an art of balance. In our work with air roasting in Minnesota, we aim to balance the body, acidity, and flavor profile of the coffee components. A well-crafted blend will have body and complexity, with each component complementing the others. These characteristics should be present regardless of whether the blend is designed to be brighter and fruitier or darker with chocolate and nutty undertones.
Why do coffee roasters create coffee blends?
In our experience at Ember Coffee Company, we create blends to offer a sense of familiarity and consistency to our customers. This approach also helps us, as a small business in Big Lake, MN, to build our brand recognition, showcasing the qualities we can control, such as body or flavor profile.
You get what you pay for, as with most things in life. Sourcing single origin or blended coffees from quality-focused roasters like us in Big Lake, MN, will help to ensure the coffee has lived a good life and has been well-cared for, which will be reflected in your cup. Explore our offerings and keep an open mind. Every coffee is unique and special in its own way, and you could spend your entire life exploring everything coffee has to offer and never have two cups that are the same.
Comparison is one of the best ways to experience the nuance of coffee. Coffee cuppings are a very special ritual for us, allowing you to taste multiple coffees side by side. This highlights the distinct flavors that our air roasting method brings out in each bean.
To get the most out of your coffee, watch our brew guides, which will teach you our recipes for brewing coffee on all of the popular brew devices. As a growing Minnesota coffee roaster, we are excited to share our passion for great coffee with you.
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Community
In honor of National Dessert Day, we're unveiling our cherished cake recipe, originally from "Sweet" by Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh. Dubbed the "World’s Best Chocolate Cake," this Big favorite can be enjoyed with a light cocoa dust or lavishly garnished with chocolate ganache and espresso cinnamon mascarpone cream, a perfect pairing with a brew from our local coffee roaster, Ember Coffee Co.
For a true Big Lake experience, pair this with a cup of our Night Owl French roast, available in our online store for one-time orders or a monthly subscription. As always, for impeccable results, weigh your ingredients in grams.
Source: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018930-worlds-best-chocolate-cake
INGREDIENTS
Yield:
12 servings
FOR THE CAKE
1 cup plus 1½ tablespoons/250 grams unsalted butter (2 sticks plus 1½ tablespoons), at room temperature and cut into ¾-inch/2-centimeter cubes, plus extra for greasing the pan
7 ounces/200 grams dark chocolate (70 percent cocoa solids), chopped into ¾-inch/2-centimeter pieces
1½ teaspoons instant coffee granules, dissolved in 1½ cups/350 milliliters boiling water
1¼ cups/250 grams granulated sugar
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1¾ cups plus 2 tablespoons/240 grams self-rising flour (see note)
⅓ cup/30 grams Dutch-processed cocoa powder, plus 1½ teaspoons, for dusting
¼ teaspoon salt
FOR THE CHOCOLATE GANACHE (OPTIONAL)
7 ounces/200 grams dark chocolate (70 percent cocoa solids), broken or chopped roughly into ¾-inch/2-centimeter pieces
¾ cup/180 milliliters heavy cream
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, at room temperature
FOR THE ESPRESSO CREAM (OPTIONAL)
1½ cups plus 1 tablespoon/375 milliliters heavy cream
¾ cup/190 grams mascarpone
Scraped seeds of ½ vanilla pod
2½ teaspoons finely ground espresso
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2½ tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
PREPARATION
Heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit/170 degrees Celsius. Grease a 9-inch/23-centimeter round springform pan with butter and line with parchment paper, then set aside.
Make the cake: Place butter, chocolate and hot coffee in a large heatproof bowl and mix well until everything is melted, combined and smooth. Whisk in sugar by hand until dissolved. Add eggs and vanilla extract and whisk again until thoroughly combined and smooth. Sift flour, cocoa powder and salt together into a bowl and then whisk this into the melted chocolate mixture. The batter here is liquid, but don’t think you have missed something; this is how it should be.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour, or until the cake is cooked and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few dry crumbs attached. The top will form a crust and crack a little, but don’t worry, this is expected. Leave the cake to cool for 20 minutes before removing from the pan, then set aside until completely cool.
Make the chocolate ganache, if desired: Place chocolate pieces in a food processor, process until fine and set aside. Combine cream and corn syrup in a small pan and place over medium-high heat. As soon as bubbles begin to appear (just before it comes to a boil), remove from the heat. Get the food processor running again, with the chocolate still inside, and pour in the hot cream in a steady stream. Process for 10 seconds, then add butter. Continue to process until mixture is shiny and smooth. (You can also make the ganache by hand; just make sure the chocolate is chopped fairly finely before adding the cream mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until almost melted, then add the butter. Stir again until the ganache is smooth.)
Use a rubber spatula to scrape the ganache into a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, with the plastic actually touching the top of the ganache. Set aside until it has set to the consistency you want. If you want a thin layer to spread over the cake, it can be poured over while liquid so that you get an even, light and shiny coating. For a thicker ganache with a spreading consistency, leave it for about 2 hours at room temperature. (The ganache can be stored at room temperature, providing it’s not too warm, for 3 days or kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen, although it will lose a bit of its shine when defrosted.)
Make the espresso cinnamon mascarpone cream, if desired: Place all the ingredients in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat for 1 to 2 minutes, until soft peaks form.
Peel the parchment from the cake and discard. Transfer to a serving platter and spread the ganache, if using, on top of the cake. Slice into wedges, divide the cake among plates and, if using, spoon the mascarpone cream alongside. With or without icing, the cake will keep well for 4 to 5 days in an airtight container.
If you can’t find self-rising flour, whisk together 1¾ cups plus 2 tablespoons/240 grams all-purpose flour and 2¾ teaspoons baking powder and use this mixture instead.
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At the Roastery
In the bustling realm of coffee, standing out requires not just a good bean, but a revolutionary approach to roasting it. Some venture into this world chasing the traditional methods, while others, like Ember Coffee, carve out a niche by doing something nearly forgotten. Dive into their story below, a tale of passion, innovation, and a commitment to community – all encapsulated in the art of air roasting.
We Are Ember Coffee
It used to be 5%. It's down to 1% of the world population now who air roasts. No one else does it. We're pioneers in this area. We both had a background in coffee, but we both shared a love for our community. How can we bring something beautiful to our town and to the people around us?
The official date was July 3, 2021. We were both like, “Alright, here we go.” When we weren't working, we were working. I remember so many late night and then turn right around for an early morning. You got to hustle. Making something beautiful is hard work. In 2023, we were voted Best Coffee in Minnesota by Star Tribune. A real honor.
One thing we've always about is pioneering. We say we’re building our ship at sea. We always want to be ahead of the curve and doing stuff that no one's done. And that's what got us headed in the direction of air roasted, fair trade coffee. By roasting coffee you’re changing it. There’s a lot going on as you’re roasting. When you're air roasting, you're using hot air convection, it floats the beans on a bed of hot air. It's like every bean has been roasted individually.
Air roasted coffee is super smooth with none of that harsh acidity. There's no soot. There's no burnt bitterness, you're not trying to hide the taste. We're a family run business. We've been family run since day one. We've had family working here, and now our kids—and then friends who become family. I've always wanted to create something that I can feel proud of and to hear other people talk about how exceptional our coffee is. Feels good to know that Ember Coffee is popping up in restaurants, grocery stores, food trucks. And we can personally say we know it's probably one of the best products of coffee out there. We’re Ember Coffee and we’re making the world beautiful, one bean at a time.
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At the Roastery
We’re Ember Coffee—your neighbors, your roasters, and the proud team behind Minnesota’s Best Coffee 2023. From our air roasting facility right here in Big Lake, we’re excited to bring you something special: our award-winning coffee in convenient, specialty K-cups.
Why Choose Ember Coffee’s K-Cups?
Minnesota’s Air Roasting PioneersAt Ember, we don’t just roast—we air roast. This unique method suspends beans on a bed of hot air, ensuring even development and no burnt flavors. The result is a smooth, balanced cup that truly lets the origin shine.
Freshness You Can TasteWe roast small batches daily and pack our K-cups fast, so you can brew fresh, flavorful coffee that reflects the care we put into every roast.
Thoughtfully Crafted for Your KeurigMore coffee in every pod (50% more than standard K-cups) means a richer, more satisfying cup. Each pod meets the SCA’s Gold Cup standard—so you know it’s the real deal.
Better for the PlanetOur pods are 100% recyclable. Just peel, empty, and recycle—no complicated steps. Good for your morning ritual, better for Minnesota.
Your Questions, Answered
Are these K-cups compatible with my machine?Absolutely. Our pods work with any Keurig brewer—at home or in the office.
Why air roasting?Air roasting preserves clarity and balance, letting you taste the true character of each bean without bitterness.
Can I really taste the difference?You’ll notice it from the first sip. Smooth, vibrant, and consistently fresh.
Where can I buy them?Right here in Big Lake and across Minnesota. Pick up a box in local stores or order online for doorstep delivery.
Join Us in Raising the Bar for Coffee
At Ember Coffee, we believe great coffee shouldn’t be complicated—and it should never compromise on quality. With our air roasted K-cups, your best cup is always within reach.
Ready to elevate your Keurig game?Try Ember’s specialty K-cups and taste what makes Minnesota coffee extraordinary.
Order online or stop by our Big Lake café—your perfect cup is waiting.
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At the Roastery
We are thrilled to unveil our darkest roast to date, the Night Owl Limited Edition Roast, a carefully crafted French roast that explores the untapped richness of the distinctive Mundo Novo beans from the revered CESMACH cooperative in Mexico.
Originating from the lush, vibrant landscapes of Sierra Madre, Chiapas, these beans are a product of passion, quality, and dedication from the smallholder members of CESMACH. The farms are nestled in the buffer zone of El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve, a place renowned as one of the most diverse forest reserve areas globally, providing a haven for thousands of plant and animal species and home to Mesoamerica's largest cloud forest. The unique ecosystem and ideal conditions of this region, such as heirloom coffee varieties like Bourbon and Typica and altitudes ranging from 1200–1750 masl, contribute to the exquisite, nuanced flavors of the coffee produced here.
The beans are meticulously processed, washed, and then roasted to a bold 460F, revealing a graceful intensity and complex flavor profile. A mellow, citric essence is intertwined with indulgent notes of cocoa and praline, offering a tantalizing dance of flavors with every sip, concluded with hints of hazelnut and sorghum and a velvety finish.
The commitment to quality from farm managers like Sixto Bonilla and the investments made in quality-control programs by Cafe Imports have elevated the coffee quality to new heights, reinforcing the region's potential to produce truly exceptional coffee. Every bag purchased is not just a transaction but a contribution to the empowerment of these cooperatives and the sustainability of their communities.
This exclusive roast is more than just a beverage; it’s an immersive experience for those who find solace in the serene hours before the break of dawn. It’s a whisper of the untold stories of the silent, mystical highlands of the Sierra Madre and a nod to the nocturnal souls who savor the magic in the moonlight.
The Night Owl offers an extraordinary experience of flavor and intensity, a true symphony from the untamed, rich soils of the Sierra Madre, Chiapas. However, the stock is limited, emphasizing the exclusivity and uniqueness of this roast. Don’t miss the chance to awaken your senses with the Night Owl Limited Edition Roast and savor the bold, untold flavors of the Mexican highlands.
"For those awake before the dawn," embrace the night, embrace the extraordinary. Experience the Night Owl.
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Community
For every coffee lover, brewing that perfect cup is a blend of artistry and precision. Whether you're a seasoned barista or someone stepping into the world of specialty coffee, understanding the subtleties of brewing can be a game changer for your coffee experience. To guide you on this journey, Ember Coffee proudly presents our Printable Brew Guide, available for immediate download on this page!
click here to download
Why Should You Download Our Brew Guide?
Step-by-Step Instructions: Eliminate the guesswork and endless online searches. Our guide delivers clear, step-by-step instructions, setting you on the path to brewing excellence every time.
Diverse Brewing Methods: Whether you're a fan of the French press, you're a drip brew aficionado, or you’re venturing into AeroPress territory, our guide covers a range of brewing techniques. It caters to everyone from the coffee purist to the adventurous brewer.
Expert Tips and Tricks: Beyond foundational brewing steps, you can join our regular newsletter to learn our industry insights, tips, and professional secrets. Learn how water temperature or grind size, can dramatically influence your brew. These nuances can elevate your coffee experience from so-so to so-amazing. (Okay, it's lame, I know...)
The Ember Coffee Distinction
What makes our Printable Brew Guide a must-have? It embodies years of coffee expertise, continuous experimentation, and a genuine passion for the brew. Every ratio is meticulously designed for clarity and simplicity, ensuring you brew like a pro. And, its printable nature means it can find a spot in your kitchen, ensuring expert guidance is always at your fingertips.
In a nutshell, if your goal is to hone your brewing acumen, bring a touch of professionalism to your morning ritual, or simply have a trusty brewing companion, Ember Coffee’s Printable Brew Guide awaits you.
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At the Roastery
In the world of specialty coffee, the choices can feel endless. Arabica or Robusta? Light, medium, or dark roast? If you’re new to the rich and flavorful universe of high-quality coffee, the variety might seem overwhelming. That’s where Ember Coffee comes in.
Located in the heart of Big Lake, Minnesota, Ember Coffee Co. was recently named Minnesota’s Best and is more than just a coffeehouse. We’re a hub for coffee lovers who crave quality, clarity, and character in every cup. Our signature air-roasted beans are thoughtfully crafted to bring out the best in each origin and roast profile, ensuring a clean, balanced, and smooth experience.
Common Questions About Specialty Coffee
1. What’s the difference between Arabica and Robusta?Arabica beans are prized for their sweet, nuanced flavor, often with fruity or floral notes and a gentle acidity. Robusta beans tend to have a stronger, more bitter taste with earthy or nutty undertones. At Ember, we specialize in Arabica to ensure a refined and layered flavor experience.
2. How does the roast level affect flavor?Roasting has a profound impact on how your coffee tastes.
Light roasts highlight the bean’s natural origin flavors like citrus, berry, or floral.
Medium roasts strike a balance between acidity and body, often with caramel or chocolate notes.
Dark roasts bring bold, smoky, and sometimes bittersweet flavors to the forefront.Thanks to our air roasting method, Ember beans are roasted evenly, preserving their unique qualities without the burnt bitterness of conventional roasting.
3. Why does water quality matter?Coffee is made up of 98% water, so it’s no surprise that water quality plays a critical role in the final cup. Using filtered or spring water enhances flavor extraction, making your coffee taste cleaner and more vibrant. At our café, we’re serious about water standards to ensure your brew is always at its best.
Why Choose Ember’s Air Roasted Coffee?
Air roasting sets Ember apart. This innovative method uses hot air to suspend the beans as they roast, allowing for even heating and eliminating the scorched or smoky taste found in traditional roasting. The result is a smoother, cleaner cup that lets the bean’s natural flavors shine.
The Ember Coffee Experience
At Ember Coffee Co., everything we do. From sourcing the highest quality beans to perfecting each roast—is built around one goal: helping you fall in love with every cup. Whether you enjoy bright, fruity notes or deep, chocolatey richness, our diverse selection has something for every palate.
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Community
Reprinted from Minnesota's Best (Aug 2023)
Ember Coffee Co., established in 2021, is a standout in Minnesota's restaurant and coffee shop scene. Co-founded by Elisa Berry alongside her husband Matt, it’s a testament to the couple’s enterprising spirit and value for a fantastic culture that produces fantastic coffee. The shop is nestled in Big Lake, Minnesota and consistently draws in customers with its specialty-grade, air-roasted coffee.
At Ember, the science and art of coffee roasting are delicately blended. They distinguish themselves from conventional coffee roasters with their unique air-roasting method. This technique reduces the acidity that can be distasteful for some coffee drinkers, and it also prevents the scorching of beans. The outcome is a full-bodied coffee that strikes a balance of flavors, low acidity, and almost no bitterness.
This upstart roastery has coupled a love for quality with a pledge to ethical sourcing, resulting in a brew that goes beyond the ordinary. Ember selects beans by hand and ethically sources them from premier coffee-producing regions across the world. This makes a significant impact one sustainably sourced bean at a time—and this small-batch artisan roaster invites everyone to taste the difference. After roasting, these beans yield a coffee that is rich in flavor and low in acidity.
Coffee connoisseurs love the rich flavors on the palate and the smooth, balanced taste that Ember’s coffee provides. Because of this, it has gained the respect of award-winning restaurants and family-owned dining establishments across Minnesota in addition to their local community. Recognizing the importance of coffee in the dining experience, these establishments have turned to Ember to give their customers an exceptional cup of coffee. Some have even worked with Ember Coffee's roastmaster to create custom roasts that complement the distinct personalities and flavor profiles of the coffee shops and restaurants they serve.
Each bean's journey at Ember Coffee starts long before it is roasted. Every bag of green coffee is ethically sourced and plays a part in empowering the coffee growers. The Ember team puts forth a lot of effort to make sure that growers, particularly those that are owned by women, can prosper and make a living wage. As a woman-owned company, it's important that Ember Coffee give special attention to female coffee growers.
However, Ember Coffee’s task does not end there. Their goal extends beyond just selling great coffee; a portion of Ember’s proceeds goes to nonprofits that support those who are exploited and marginalized, particularly victims of sex trafficking in India and Ukraine.
Ember's philosophy is firmly grounded in the conviction that a wonderful coffee experience can be a catalyst for positive change on a global scale. They picture a time when each freshly brewed cup not only promises exceptional flavor but also contributes to a global cause.
The core values at Ember Coffee include consistently providing high-quality goods, being kind to others, and fostering relationships with the community. Their coffee is much more than just a beverage; it's a way of life that combines the satisfaction of exceptional flavor with the fulfillment of making a difference in the world.
Their story is a testament to how a simple cup of coffee can become a tool for change. By intertwining the art of roasting coffee with a commitment to ethical sourcing and humanitarian aid, Ember is seeking to redefine the coffee experience. Their rich, smooth, and low-acidity coffee is not just a pleasure to one’s palate, but also a force for good in the world, proving that they truly roast to brew good works.
Ember Coffee Co. is more than a coffee company. It is a hub for change, a community advocate, and a champion of ethical business practices. With their exceptional air-roasted coffee they are brewing a revolution in their industry and proving that every sip of coffee can contribute to a better and more equitable world. Ember extends an open invitation to coffee lovers everywhere to join them in their mission to “brew good and do good.”
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At the Roastery
Calling all coffee lovers! Are you ready to kickstart a year of happy mornings and fresh roasted coffee, delivered right to your doorstep?
Ember Coffee Co. is Minnesota's premier source for air-roasted specialty coffee that's sure to elevate your daily brew. Smooth and balanced, low in acidity, and offered in whole bean options as well as K-cup single-servings—you'll love it from the first sip.
And now we've got some fantastic news we're excited to share! We're launching a remarkable opportunity to win a whole year's worth of Ember Coffee delivered right to your home! That's right, a one-year coffee subscription valued at $300! 🏆🌈
We've got AeroPress kits (valued at $75 each)
Our Ember Coffee Klean Kanteen travel thermos (valued at $40 each)
And a few lucky winners will get a one year coffee subscription!
Entering is a breeze, so here's how to get in on the action:
Visit the competition sign-up page
Submit your information
Complete additional challenges for more votes
The big day to reveal our winners is October 1st, so mark your calendars!
This contest is open to everyone in the contiguous United States, and we can't wait to see you sipping and smiling with Ember Coffee! 🌄🚀
Ember Coffee Giveaway
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At the Roastery
Nestled in the heart of Big Lake, MN, Ember Coffee Co. is committed to delivering an exceptional coffee experience. Our goal is not just to serve you coffee, but to introduce you to the rich world of specialty coffee in Minnesota. We take enormous pride in our detailed sourcing and roasting process, choosing only the finest specialty-grade coffees.
In light of the recent concerns about molds and mycotoxins in coffee, we would like to assure our customers that our meticulously sourced and processed coffees are virtually mold-free. This commitment to quality isn't just about taste, but ensuring a healthy and enjoyable coffee experience as well.
Quality Assurance and Testing
Our green coffee importer, although not explicitly labeling their products as “Mold Free,” showcases an unwavering commitment to quality. The coffees they source undergo regular FDA inspections. Additionally, multiple times a year, they conduct their own random checks on coffees that are often deemed high-risk, such as Mexican and Sumatran origins. There results have never shown the existence of mycotoxins, which has also been backed by independent tests conducted by independent testing.
Role of Water Activity (Aw) in Mold Prevention
To understand why our specialty coffees are virtually mold-free, it’s essential to consider water activity (Aw). Water activity is a critical parameter used across the food and beverage industries to control microorganism growth. Most microorganisms cannot proliferate below 0.7000 Aw, and strains that produce mycotoxins are inhibited at even higher levels, typically in the 0.7000 to 0.8000 range.
Specialty Coffee’s Advantage
Our green coffee beans consistently demonstrate water activity levels well below the threshold for microbial growth. In fact, the majority of the coffee we’ve measured over the past few years has been below 0.6000 Aw. Only a small fraction of our samples, less than 10 out of 25,000 or 30,000, showed measurements above 0.7000 Aw. This reaffirms our commitment to sourcing high-quality specialty coffees that are inherently less prone to mold and mycotoxin development.
Ember Coffee Co. maintains strict control over Aw levels in our coffee. The majority of our beans show water activity levels significantly below the threshold for microbial growth. This fact is a testament to our dedication to offering mold-free, specialty coffee in Minnesota.
The Importance of Production and Handling
Differentiating specialty coffee from commodity coffee extends beyond the taste in the cup. It encompasses the entire production and handling process. Commercial coffees and some lower-grade specialty coffees are more susceptible to the conditions that promote microbial activity due to their higher water activity levels and less meticulous processing and handling. In contrast, our specialty coffees are sourced with utmost care, ensuring optimal water activity levels and superior quality.
Moisture Content and Mycotoxins
Another crucial factor in mold development and mycotoxin production is moisture content (MC). Coffees with moisture content below 12% are very unlikely to harbor mycotoxins. Even coffees stored in GrainPro bags, which provide additional protection, are even less likely to be affected.
Moisture content (MC) is another crucial factor in preventing mold development. Coffees with MC below 12% are less likely to harbor mycotoxins. This level of quality control, combined with optimal storage conditions, make our specialty coffees an excellent choice for those seeking mold-free coffee.
Production and Handling
What separates us from commodity coffee is our meticulous approach to the entire production and handling process. We ensure optimal water activity levels and superior quality, creating a distinctive specialty coffee experience in Big Lake, MN.
At Ember Coffee Co. in Big Lake, MN, we stand behind the quality of our specialty coffee. From farm to cup, we prioritize excellence, ensuring a truly exceptional, mold-free coffee experience for you, our valued customer. Experience the finest specialty coffee in Minnesota with us, and let every sip transport you to a world of flavor that is free from concerns about molds or mycotoxins.
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At the Roastery
We have exciting news for coffee lovers! Ember Coffee Co., our local roastery and coffeehouse, recently had the honor of being featured on Twin Cities Live. One of their hosts, Kelli Hanson, visited us, and the experience was truly memorable.
Click on the image above to watch the full segment featuring Ember Coffee Co. on Twin Cities Live.
Passion in the Spotlight
Being recognized by a popular show like Twin Cities Live was a humbling and surreal moment for us. It highlighted our dedication to sourcing exceptional coffee beans and creating a welcoming environment for coffee enthusiasts.
Kelli Hanson's visit was a testament to her genuine curiosity and appreciation for local businesses. We had the privilege of showcasing our roastery, sharing our story, and discussing our commitment to sustainable sourcing. Her enthusiasm and interest made us feel proud of our coffee journey.
Behind the Curtain
During the visit, Kelli witnessed our meticulous roasting process. We prioritize single-origin beans, carefully selected from renowned coffee-growing regions worldwide. Our skilled roasters demonstrated their expertise, fine-tuning each roast profile to unlock the unique flavors and nuances of every coffee variety.
The Impact
Being featured on Twin Cities Live has had a significant impact on Ember Coffee Co. It has increased our visibility and credibility within the Twin Cities coffee scene. We have seen a surge in interest from both new and loyal customers, who appreciate our dedication to delivering exceptional coffee experiences.
The Twin Cities Live spotlight was a memorable milestone for Ember Coffee Co. We are grateful for the opportunity to share our passion and commitment to outstanding coffee with a broader audience. Kelli Hanson's visit reaffirmed our dedication to sourcing and roasting exceptional beans. We look forward to welcoming more coffee enthusiasts through our doors, providing them with the rich flavors and warm atmosphere that make Ember Coffee Co. special.
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