Holiday Coffee Traditions from Around the World

The holiday season brings unique coffee traditions from across the globe. From Italy’s cozy caffè corretto to Ethiopia’s cherished buna ceremony, each culture has its own way of celebrating with coffee. Here’s a look at a few beloved holiday rituals, along with Moon Roast coffee suggestions to help you bring these flavours home.

1. Italian Caffè Corretto

In Italy, a holiday meal is often topped off with a caffè corretto, or “corrected coffee.” This espresso, enhanced with a splash of grappa or sambuca, adds warmth to festive gatherings.

At Home: Try our Ethiopia Geruke Co-op from the CORE Collection, with bright, floral notes that pair beautifully with amaretto or grappa. Brew it as a strong espresso or AeroPress to capture the Italian holiday spirit.

2. Swedish Fika

Swedish fika is all about taking a break to enjoy coffee with friends or family, especially around the holidays. Fika is often paired with sweet, spiced treats like gingerbread or saffron buns.


At Home: Our Brazil Coffee from the CORE Collection, with smooth chocolate and roasted nut flavours, is perfect for fika and pairs beautifully with festive pastries. Brew it in a cafetière or filter to enjoy a cozy, mellow cup.

3. Austrian Kaffee und Kuchen

In Austria, Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) is a festive holiday tradition, typically enjoyed with rich desserts like Sachertorte or spiced apple cake.

At Home: Treat yourself with our single origin Guatemala Buena Vista Festive blend, crafted for the season with tasting notes of pecan, maple butter, and chocolate mousse. Brew it in a cafetière or AeroPress for a cozy, indulgent cup that pairs beautifully with dessert.

4. Ethiopian Buna Ceremony

Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, celebrates with the buna ceremony, a deeply traditional ritual where coffee beans are roasted, ground, and brewed fresh for guests. Coffee is typically enjoyed black, with optional salt or spices.


At Home: Honour this tradition with our Ethiopia Chelbesa Lot 5 from the EXPLORE Collection. Its floral and berry notes reflect the elegance of Ethiopian coffee, best enjoyed black. Brew it as a filter or in a cafetière for an authentic taste.

5. Irish Irish Coffee

For a warm Irish twist, an Irish coffee—coffee with a splash of whiskey and a touch of cream—is a winter classic, perfect for cozy nights by the fire.

At Home: For a smooth, balanced base that complements whiskey and cream, try our Moonshot Blend from the CORE Collection. Brew it strong as a filter or AeroPress to create the depth needed for this holiday favourite.

Embrace Holiday Traditions with Moon Roast

Coffee connects us across cultures, bringing warmth and cheer to every holiday table. This season, why not bring a new tradition to life or add a festive twist to your own? With Moon Roast’s hand-selected coffees, you can bring the world’s coffee rituals home.

Ready to start your journey? Browse our shop to find the perfect coffee for your holiday celebrations.