The Tala Blog

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What Is Ube?

Have you seen customers walking out of one of our cafes with a vibrant purple drink? You are likely looking at the Ube Latte! With its recognizable purple color and its sweet, nutty flavor, the ube latte has gained a loyal fanbase over the years. But what exactly is ube?

Mel Kreppin Mel Kreppin

Does It Float?

Our inspiration came from the classic root beer float—but instead of sticking to tradition, we wanted to ask ourselves the question of: does it float? using our seasonal menu. We tested out which of our drinks could be transformed into creamy, dreamy floats. The result? Unique coffee creations that are as fun to make as they are to drink.

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Alo Ochoa Alo Ochoa

Ube Cinnamon Rolls

Ube is a purple yam originally from the Philippines, known for its nutty, vanilla-like flavor and stunning color. We use it in our ube latte syrup, but this flavor deserves a spotlight beyond the cup. Its natural sweetness and subtle earthiness pair beautifully with cinnamon, brown sugar, and creamy frosting for the most decadent cinnamon rolls.

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Zak Cummings Zak Cummings

BBQ Coffee Rub Recipe

Say hello to the coffee BBQ rub!! This smoky, rich, slightly sweet rub will have your brisket, ribs, or even veggies singing. The best part? You can make it with leftover beans or already used coffee grounds, earning you full sustainability points and some serious flavor.

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Mel Kreppin Mel Kreppin

Tala Libertyville’s Unit B Cupcakes

If you’ve ever had the privilege of tasting the Unit B latte, then you know that it can only be described as a warm, comforting hug. With that being said, there is no better treat to make a loved one than these cupcakes, for any and every occasion and celebration.

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Mel Kreppin Mel Kreppin

Tala’s Matcha Latte Cookies

Whether you're a longtime matcha fan or a curious newcomer, these matcha crinkle cookies are a fluffy and delicious staple.

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Recipes Alo Ochoa Recipes Alo Ochoa

The Ultimate Guide to Creating a Christmas Cookie Box

Two years ago, I ventured into this tradition for the first time, and while I was overwhelmed and exhausted, it became a highlight of my holiday season. In this post, I’ll share tips to make your cookie box journey smoother, more organized, and full of cheer, along with a couple of recipes inspired by Tala’s signature flavors.

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Recipes Alo Ochoa Recipes Alo Ochoa

Friendsgiving Recipes

While some skip right to Christmas, the season’s changing leaves and cooler days remind us Thanksgiving is near. This time of year is all about gathering and sharing meals, with traditions old and new to savor—including a holiday that’s become a favorite for friends: Friendsgiving.

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Recipes Michael Boyack Recipes Michael Boyack

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is one of the most delicious and famous coffee desserts. This decadent dish can be found all over dessert menus but is rarely made at home! Here is your definitive guide. 

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Recipes Mel Kreppin Recipes Mel Kreppin

Espresso Martini

It would be irresponsible of me not to warn you about how perfect this recipe is as a pick-me-up. It’s tailor-made for those late afternoon/early evening slumps. Swing by before we close at six to grab your espresso and a splash of vanilla.

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Recipes Joanna Tong Recipes Joanna Tong

Cold Brew Chia Seed Pudding

In college, my roommates and I pretty much lived off of chia seed pudding. As health-conscious but nevertheless thrifty students, we found a big bag of chia seeds could go a long way to fulfilling our needs. We’d all chip in on a Costco-size bag and then have fast, easy meals for weeks. The best part for us then was how easy and versatile it could be. We tried endless variations so we never got bored of the flavor.

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Recipes Viscaria Liu Recipes Viscaria Liu

London Fog Popsicles

Though summer is coming to an end, these London Fog popsicles will keep the good vibes going. A frozen twist on the classic London Fog drink, they’re the perfect way to cool down and relax anytime! This super easy recipe can be made for a single serving or multiple—ideal for any occasion!

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Recipes Marissa Cummings Recipes Marissa Cummings

Pie Pairings

Hosting around the holidays can be stressful; let us make it easier for you! We’ve taken on the challenge of figuring out what pies pair best with our current coffee offerings. Let’s review our findings and find the perfect coffee for your dessert menu this Thanksgiving!

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