IDEAL for trying on your next night out, or even making at home.
Calling all java and liquor aficionados! If you are a coffee lover who also appreciates the relaxing buzz of a boozy beverage (responsibly, of course) then you may be interested in a number of unique coffee and alcohol cocktails the next time you find yourself at a bar.
By combining sweet Kahlua tastes and the distinctive roasted aroma of coffee with the depth, complexity and bite of a little booze, coffee cocktails offer a truly unique experience and something of a taste sensation. Take a look at these 8 of the world’s best coffee and alcohol cocktails, IDEAL for trying on your next night out, or even making at home.
IRISH COFFEE
For an Irish classic that is everything that a perfect java cocktail could ever be, the Irish Coffee is one of the simplest and most authentic coffee and alcohol combinations you can try. For this drink, take a strong, freshly brewed cup of Joe and mix it with a shot of Irish whiskey. Then, stir in some brown sugar. For those who prefer a more indulgent, less bracing sip, a couple of tablespoons of lightly whipped double cream can be gently floated on the top. Delish!
ESPRESSO MARTINI
If you are a coffee and vodka fan who wants to taste the very definition of sweet and bold bliss, an Espresso Martini is what you need. A British invention involving a mixture of Kahlua, Absolut vodka, freshly brewed espresso and sugar syrup, made extra fancy with a coffee bean garnish, this unique twist on a classic favourite is a must-try for caffeine and cocktail enthusiasts.
Read: How to make the IDEAL three ingredient Espresso Martini
ITALIAN COFFEE COCKTAIL
For more global booze and coffee exploration, look no further than an Italian coffee cocktail. A mix of Strega (an Italian herbal liqueur with a vivid yellow appearance) and freshly brewed Italian coffee at a ratio of 1:5, this drink is then topped with whipped cream and a whisper of grated nutmeg. A perfect after dinner pick-me-up when the tiramisu hasn’t done the necessary lifting.
WHITE RUSSIAN
More gastronomic globetrotting, here, the next drink to try is a White Russian. Another sweet and creamy liquor based, coffee flavoured drink, this cocktail is super easy to make. Simply mix 60ml of vodka with 2 tablespoons of Kahlua and 1 tablespoon of cream, and pour over ice cubes.
THE BUSHWACKER
To truly wake up and smell the coffee, why not step outside of your comfort zone and try The Bushwacker? Offering a mind blowing (and sometimes stomach blowing!) mixture of rum, Kahlua, creme de cacao, coconut cream and milk, the drink ends up tasting something like a boozy chocolate and coffee milkshake.
Originating in the U.S Virgin Islands, check out a great recipe for The Bushwacker here, and beware; though this one might be super moreish, you’re well advised to keep it just to one!
SPANISH COFFEE
While you are out on your coffee cocktail tasting tour, don’t forget to give Spanish Coffee a try. For another international spin on that much treasured mixture of coffee and booze, this one’s all about theatre.
Served in a glass handled coffee ‘mug’, the rim of the tempered glass is first rubbed with lemon and dipped in superfine sugar. A splash of triple sec and rum are both added to the glass before the sugar mixture adorning the glass’s rim is caramelised with a flame. 1 part Kahlua to 2 parts freshly brewed, hot speciality coffee completes the cocktail – the flame should have been extinguished by this stage, of course! Garnish with a float of freshly whipped double cream, if you wish.
CARAJILLO (MEXICAN SPIKED COFFEE)
One for the road, and it’s a Carajillo. Also known as a Mexican Spiked Coffee, this guy offers a unique blend of vanilla, chocolate and citrus tastes, provided by the unique Spanish liqueur, Licor 43. Upon sipping, you’ll simultaenously notice hints of rich, roasted coffee. It is nothing short of pure joy.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Whether you’re looking for a cosy treat at the end of an Autumn’s day, some spring in your step for Spring, or you’re seeking a different kind of seasonal sensation, these coffee cocktails will see you right.
*Just don’t try all of these coffee cocktails in one sitting, make sure you’re over 18 here in the UK when trying one, and please drink responsibly anytime you drink at all*
