I’m Coffee-Obsessed and These Are My Go-To Gift Sets This Year

2 weeks ago 4

Published on Dec 9, 2024 at 12:30 PM

PS Photography | Marisa PetrarcaPS Photography | Marisa Petrarca

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Coffee has been a nonnegotiable part of my morning routine for as long as I can remember. While that's far from groundbreaking — plenty of people feel the same way — I'm always looking for ways to make my coffee moments feel extra special. Over the years, I've tried it all: an iced coffee maker that's a spot-on dupe for my Starbucks order (but way cheaper), sleek espresso machines that make me feel like I'm moonlighting as a barista, and so much more. But recently, one discovery has skyrocketed to the top of my list: Trade Coffee.

Trade Coffee is a specialty coffee marketplace packed with independent roasters from across the country, and it's where I found two giftable coffee kits that are chef's kiss: the Klatch Espresso Martini Kit ($39, originally $60) and the Klatch Peppermint Mocha Kit ($49, originally $75). Ahead, I'm breaking down everything you need to know about my experience testing them and why I'll surely find myself back on Trade's website, stat.

About Trade Coffee

Trade carries 450+ coffees from "small towns across the USA," per its website.
You can either purchase packaged roasts or gifts a la carte-style.
You can also subscribe to get new coffee delivered to your doorstep as frequently as weekly.
There's a quiz on the retailer's website that will help you find personalized coffee matches.
Trade is currently offering up to $50 off gifts and up to 30 percent off site-wide (for self-subscriptions).

What I Like About Trade Coffee's Gift Sets

My experience testing Trade's coffee gifts was seamless. The two kits landed on my doorstep in the late afternoon, and while I forced myself to save the peppermint mocha kit for the morning, my husband didn't need much convincing to dive into the espresso martini kit. (As a mom-to-be, I didn't partake, but I'm counting down the days until I can recreate the exact recipe.)

Each kit includes everything you need to bring the drinks to life. The espresso martini kit, for example, comes with Klatch espresso, simple syrup, a jigger, a strainer, and even coffee bean garnish (because what's an espresso martini without one?). Vodka is the only thing not included, but luckily, we had some collecting dust on our bar cart. Plus, the kit includes a handy handbook that walks you through the simple steps — perfect for beginners and seasoned cocktail makers alike. (We're definitely in the first camp.)

His verdict on the taste? While my husband isn't as expressive as I am, he declared it "really good," pointing out that the balance of vodka, simple syrup, and espresso concentrate went down smoothly — not too vodka-heavy and definitely not watered-down. Though I didn't indulge, I admired it from afar, and it's safe to say this kit would make anyone's holiday a lot more festive. Apparently, it makes up to 12 servings, too. (That's a lot of "tinis!")

As for the peppermint mocha kit, I indulged in this one not just once but until the espresso concentrate ran out. (Note to self: I desperately need to purchase more.) That gave me several days of deliciously festive morning coffees. The set included the same espresso concentrate as the martini kit, JT Cooper's Mint Syrup, Chocolate Sauce (double yum), and a milk frother. Following the instructions was just as easy as the espresso martini, and though I can't compare the two, I'm convinced this one could earn its status as the drink — or gift! — of the winter. It's definitely on the sweeter side but an undeniable treat.

What to Consider Before Buying Trade Coffee's Gift Sets

One thing to keep in mind before scooping up one of Trade Coffee's gift sets for yourself or a loved one is that it may leave out a few essentials needed to complete the recipe. For example, the espresso martini kit doesn't include vodka and the peppermint mocha kit requires batteries for the milk frother. Should that deter you? Absolutely not! But if you're planning to give it as a gift, you might consider throwing in those extras for a thoughtful finishing touch.

Where Are Trade Coffee's Gift Sets Available?

Trade Coffee's gift sets are available direct-to-consumer from the brand's website, and that's also where you can sign up for a subscription or purchase roasts individually.

Rating:
★★★★★

Marisa Petrarca (she/her) is a contributing editor for PS Shopping and has over seven years of experience writing and editing beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content. She was previously the senior beauty editor at Grazia USA and the style and beauty editor at Us Weekly. Now freelancing, her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Allure, Marie Claire, and more. When she's not working on a story, you can probably find her testing the latest makeup, skin-care, or hair launches. Marisa lives in Saint Paul, MN, with her husband and their corgi, Cooper.

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