Perk a Day

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About

Well Hello!

I'm Katie!

I'm the recipe developer, food photographer, and writer fueling your daily caffeine fix here at Perk A Day!

Welcome to Perk A Day! 🎉

 I started Perk A Day because coffee is more than just a way to wake up in the morning. For me, it’s also a creative outlet!

A few years ago, I bought my first espresso machine and it quickly became part of my daily routine. Then the recipe experiments began... and once I realized just how easy (and fun!) it is to recreate those coffee shop drinks at home, there was no turning back!

It’s not only about saving money (though that’s a nice bonus)—it’s about the joy of crafting the perfect cup every day with simple ingredients.

Whether you’re perfecting a latte or shaking up an iced espresso, I’m here to make sure your espresso journey is as enjoyable as the drinks themselves. And if you love espresso as much as I do, I think you're going to love this espresso recipe blog!

So I have to ask… have you had your perk today?

A collage of four coffee-related images: freshly pulled espresso shots pouring into a double-walled glass, a close-up of a portafilter with “PERK UP!” imprinted on the filter basket, a row of homemade flavored syrups in glass bottles with a labeled “BROWN SUGAR” syrup in focus, and creamy milk being poured into an iced espresso, creating a swirling effect.

What You'll Find Here ☕️

  1. Easy Espresso Recipes: I'll show you how to make the perfect latte or shaken espresso!
  2. Espresso Add-Ins: Think homemade coffee syrups, sauces, cold foam, and creamers!
  3. How -To Guides: New to espresso? We've all gotta start somewhere! I’ll guide you through the basics step-by-step, keeping it easy and approachable!

Fun Facts About Katie

Katie Olesen lounging in chair.

I live in Illinois, about 90 miles south of Chicago. With a state park nearby, I love hiking the trails with my family. As the seasons change, so do the trails so it's always a new adventure.

I eat a strict gluten-free diet because I have celiac disease. Check out Wheat by the Wayside for all of my gluten-free recipes!

My favorite espresso drink is an Iced Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso—sweet, bold, and totally worth shaking things up for!

I’m all about the iced coffee drinks, even when it’s freezing outside!

Yes, I'm an elder millennial and yes, I love pink. Sorry, not sorry.

Many years ago, I worked as a Medical Technologist in a hospital laboratory. I loved the science aspect of the job, but it wasn’t a long-term fit for me. I made a shift to being a stay-at-home mom and eventually, a blogger and food photographer—a career that I have a huge passion for!

How to Connect With Me