Adding Flavor to Your Mornin' Grind

If you watched the segment this morning, you saw that we spoke briefly about flavoring your own coffee at home. A little spice, of the cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, pumpkin pie or other sweet variety added to your grounds before the drip cycle can give your morning cup a little extra kick.

Like a more fruity kick to your cup? While it's not to my taste, I know a handful of folks who like a citrus twist with their coffee. Easy enough, add in some dried lemon, orange or lime peel with your grounds. You can add a berry burst with dried blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, etc. Like nutty flavors? A handful of roasted almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts or pecans can add a nutty richness to your brew.

If you're a baker, you know there's a variety of delicious extracts you can add to your cakes, cookies and other confectionery creations. You can also add these items to your morning cup for an easy kick of flavor. A little vanilla, amaretto, butter pecan, chocolate or even eggnog extract can give you a gourmet taste without putting a hole in your wallet. You can add a drop or two straight to your cup or a 1/4 teaspoon right to the pot (before brewing) if you're serving more than a cup or two.