Preparation

On the desert planet of Arrakis, melange—the Spice—is the most valuable substance in the universe. It extends life, expands consciousness, and makes interstellar travel possible. While our coffee version won't grant you prescient visions of the future, its complex blend of warming spices will transport you across the galaxy.

Harvesting Your Spice

1. In a small bowl, combine all the ground spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper). This is your spice melange blend.
2. In a saucepan, warm the milk over medium-low heat.
3. Add the spice blend, saffron threads, and orange zest to the milk.
4. Whisk constantly for 3-4 minutes to let the spices infuse.
5. Add honey and vanilla extract, whisking until the honey dissolves.
6. Strain the spiced milk through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
7. Divide the hot coffee among 4 cups.
8. Pour the spiced milk over the coffee, leaving room for foam.
9. If desired, froth some additional milk and top each cup.
10. Garnish with a small pinch of cinnamon and gold luster dust to mimic the precious spice.

The Ritual

Like the Fremen water ceremonies, this drink should be savored slowly and mindfully. The complex spices reveal different notes as the coffee cools—first the warmth of cinnamon, then the floral notes of cardamom, finally the mysterious depth of saffron.

The Spice Must Flow: This blend is also excellent as a dry mix. Combine the spices in a jar and add a teaspoon to your daily coffee for a dose of Arrakis wherever you roam.

He who controls the Spice controls the universe. He who controls this recipe controls brunch.