Enjoy the perfect blend of coffee and whiskey with this Irish Coffee recipe. This drink blends the rich depth of a nice hot coffee with the smooth taste of Irish whiskey and sweetness of brown sugar, topped off with a layer of heavy cream. It’s a simple pleasure that combines the comfort of your favorite coffee with a hint of indulgence from the whiskey. Perfect after a long day or as a treat to yourself, it’s a recipe worth trying. Grab your favorite mug and let’s make an Irish Coffee together.
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Tasting Notes
The Classic Irish Coffee is a warm, rich, and slightly sweet coffee cocktail with a smooth whiskey kick. The bold coffee pairs beautifully with caramel-like brown sugar, while Irish whiskey adds a subtle malted depth. The lightly whipped cream floats on top, creating a velvety, luxurious contrast with every sip.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need an Irish coffee glass or heatproof mug, a bar spoon for stirring, and a whisk or milk frother for lightly whipping the cream.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces Irish whiskey
- 1 cup hot coffee
- 1 to 2 tablespoons brown sugar adjust to taste
- Heavy cream lightly whipped
Instructions
- Start by warming your glass with some hot water, then dump the water out.
- Add the brown sugar to the glass.
- Pour in the hot coffee and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add the Irish whiskey and stir again.
- Gently float the whipped cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
- Enjoy your Classic Irish Coffee.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly brewed, strong coffee for the best flavor. A dark roast or espresso blend works best.
- For an authentic touch, use demerara sugar or dark brown sugar for extra depth.
- Whip the cream just enough to float—too stiff, and it won’t mix well; too thin, and it will sink.
- For a boozier version, add a splash of Irish cream liqueur like Baileys.
- To keep it traditional, never stir after adding the cream.
When to Serve
The Irish Coffee is perfect for cold mornings, after-dinner drinks, holiday gatherings, or a cozy St. Patrick’s Day celebration. It’s a great alternative to dessert and ideal for coffee and whiskey lovers alike.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best results, use a smooth and slightly sweet Irish whiskey like Jameson, Tullamore D.E.W., or Bushmills. High-quality coffee and fresh heavy cream will elevate the drink even more.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Irish Coffee, here are five similar cocktails to try:
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces Irish whiskey
- 1 cup hot coffee
- 1 to 2 tablespoons brown sugar adjust to taste
- Heavy cream lightly whipped
Instructions
- Start by warming your glass with some hot water, then dump the water out.
- Add the brown sugar to the glass.
- Pour in the hot coffee and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add the Irish whiskey and stir again.
- Gently float the whipped cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
- Enjoy your Classic Irish Coffee.