Recent trends suggest that coffee cocktails have never been more popular than they are today. From classic espresso martinis to iced coffees and the timeless white Russian, it’s clear that these drinks have transcended their seasonal appeal and become a staple in many people’s drinking repertoires throughout the year. When it comes to coffee cocktails, there’s a wide range of flavors and styles to suit every taste.
Whether you prefer your coffee cocktails rich and strong, fruity and sweet, or something entirely different, there’s sure to be one that resonates with you. In fact, even those who don’t typically enjoy drinking coffee will find a coffee cocktail to their liking. In this article, we’ve curated a selection of 20 of the best coffee cocktails out there, each one carefully chosen to cater to a variety of preferences.
Whether you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting or light and refreshing, our list has got you covered. So, keep reading to find your perfect match among these exceptional coffee cocktails.
Irish Coffee
Generally considered one of the most iconic cocktails in the world, Irish coffee is a must-try for any coffee aficionado. This classic drink originated in Ireland and has since become synonymous with coffee-based cocktails. The simplicity of its recipe is part of its charm, requiring only a few ingredients to bring it to life. To make an Irish coffee, start by adding a shot of Irish whiskey into a glass filled with strong coffee, then sweeten with brown sugar.
Traditionally, the drink is topped with whipped cream, but feel free to omit this if you prefer. The original recipe remains a beloved staple in many bars and homes around the world.
Long Island Iced Coffee
Crafting the perfect Long Island Iced Coffee is no easy feat, especially when you consider the sheer number of strong beverages involved. A keen eye for mixology will quickly realize that this coffeehouse classic requires a multitude of potent liquors, including tequila, rum, vodka, Kahlua (for those looking to experiment with more recipes, be sure to check out our ’13 Delicious Kahlua Recipes’ post), and Baileys.
While the ingredients may seem disparate at first glance, trust us when we say that their unique characteristics come together in harmony when shaken and served over ice. In fact, this potent blend is not only a bold way to start your evening, but also provides a delightful pick-me-up to energize your senses.
Bushwacker Drink
Often, when it comes to cooling down on a warm day, nothing hits the spot quite like a refreshing coffee cocktail. The Bushwacker is one such drink that fits the bill perfectly – a delightful concoction that combines the richness of a piña colada with the decadence of a chocolate milkshake. Its velvety smooth texture and bold flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and coffee make it an instant favorite among many cocktail enthusiasts.
It’s worth noting that this cocktail relies heavily on two key ingredients: coffee liqueur and cream of coconut. While coconut cream is often used as a substitute in some recipes, it’s essential to use the correct ingredient – cream of coconut – which is a sweet syrup specifically designed for mixing into drinks. If you’re unsure about telling these two apart, rest assured that cream of coconut comes in bottles, whereas coconut cream is usually sold in cans.
Irish Winter
Juxtaposing the classic Irish coffee with its modern twist, this recipe boasts an intense coffee flavor profile courtesy of the addition of coffee liqueur. The liqueur’s sweetness harmonizes perfectly with the rich flavors of the Irish cream and whiskey, creating a delightful balance that will tantalize your taste buds.
To ensure the cocktail remains warm throughout consumption, simply preheat your mug or glass by filling it with hot water and letting it sit for a few minutes – or if time is pressing, pop it in the microwave for just under ten seconds to get it ready.
Roman Holiday
Fresh from the world of classic cocktails comes an innovative twist on the Jungle Bird. The original cocktail features dark rum, pineapple, and Campari as its core components. However, in the Roman Holiday, the rum is replaced with Amaro Meletti, a versatile Italian liqueur boasting herbal notes of clove, orange peel, and saffron. This unique liqueur provides an excellent base for the other ingredients to complement.
The presence of Campari remains unchanged, contributing its signature orange undertones to the cocktail. To balance out the flavors, fresh lime juice, pineapple juice, and demerara syrup bring a fruity and sweet dimension. Yet, the true magic happens when cold brew coffee is introduced, imbuing the drink with a smooth bitterness that elevates the overall richness of the Roman Holiday.
Finally, garnish your creation with cinnamon and sea salt to unleash the full potential of the ingredients as you sip.
Kahlúa Midnight Coffee Cocktail
Taking a slight departure from the classic Irish coffee recipe is this alternative that substitutes Kahlúa Midnight for the traditional liqueur. This variation boasts a unique blend of rum and black coffee in its Kahlúa Midnight formula, which lends the cocktail a slightly warmer profile compared to other versions. If you’re someone who prefers a less sweet take on Irish coffees, this one’s sure to please, as Kahlúa Midnight is notably less sugary than its counterpart.
To finish off your drink, consider adding an extra splash of Irish cream or, for an added layer of indulgence, one or two marshmallows.
Cold Brew Bourbon Cocktail
Often overshadowed by its hot-brewed cousin, cold brew has experienced a surge in popularity over the past few years. Offering a refreshing alternative to traditional coffee, it’s perfect for sipping on warm summer days. However, cold brew isn’t just limited to being a morning pick-me-up – it can also be used as a base for creative cocktails! One such cocktail combines cold brew and bourbon, utilizing the whiskey’s sweet caramel and vanilla notes to balance out the coffee’s intense flavors.
Iced Drunken Mocha Cocktail
Delighting coffee lovers with its rich flavors, the ultimate indulgent coffee drink is taken to new heights when combined with liquor. Whether you’re a fan of strong brews or just looking for a comforting pick-me-up, mochas are the perfect choice. They offer a delightful mix of coffee and chocolate, making them an excellent compromise for those who don’t particularly enjoy coffee on its own.
This indulgent cocktail combines the same rich flavors of chocolate syrup and espresso used in traditional mochas, but adds a boost of coffee liqueur to give it a sophisticated twist. To suit your mood, you can enjoy it over ice, giving you the flexibility to drink it hot or cold. For an added touch of luxury, top your cocktail with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder to create that classic mocha look.
Espresso Margarita
Although some may consider tequila and coffee to be an unusual pairing, the espresso-based margarita is a unique twist that brings out the best in both ingredients. The recipe requires the same tequila and triple sec used in a traditional margarita, but instead of lime juice, it incorporates coffee liqueur and espresso for a rich and bold flavor.
It’s essential to note that leaving the lime juice in this version is not recommended, as it will significantly alter the taste and make the drink unpleasant. The process of preparing an espresso-based margarita differs from its traditional counterpart in another way: the salt rim is swapped out for sugar or even a ground coffee rim, depending on individual preference. This subtle change adds depth to the drink without overpowering its other flavors.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, this recipe might just become your new favorite cocktail.
Mexican Coffee Cocktail
Underneath its unusual pairing, this tequila-coffee cocktail is surprisingly delightful. Unlike traditional cocktails that require shaking and precise measurements, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just three main ingredients – tequila, coffee liqueur, and a bit of lime juice – you can whip up a delicious drink in no time. Of course, feel free to get creative and add some extra flair with whipped cream and cinnamon if that’s your style.
For an authentic Mexican twist, consider using Kahlúa or flavored coffee liqueurs to give it that extra oomph.
Cinnamon Whiskey Coffee Cocktail
Most people are familiar with the idea that cinnamon can add warmth and flavor to various dishes. However, when it comes to beverages, cinnamon whiskey takes center stage in this refreshing summer drink. The star ingredient, cinnamon whiskey, is blended with cold brew coffee and milk to create a unique iced coffee recipe. The addition of cinnamon whiskey brings out the warm notes in the drink, perfectly complementing the depth of the cold brew coffee.
Meanwhile, the milk balances out the strength of the drink, making it perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening. This recipe is an excellent twist on traditional iced coffee and is sure to become a new favorite. Go To Recipe
Espresso Martini
Most coffee lovers are familiar with the espresso martini, one of the most renowned coffee-based cocktails. Its unique blend of rich coffee and sweet liqueur is perfectly balanced by the addition of vodka, which adds a subtle edge to the drink without overpowering it completely. For an authentic taste experience, it’s essential to use high-quality espresso rather than instant coffee or any other inferior alternative.
Frothy Whipped Coffee White Russian
Foodies everywhere have been buzzing about Dalgona coffee, a variant of the White Russian that’s topped off with whipped coffee. The secret to this delightful drink lies in its use of instant coffee grounds, which provide a unique texture and flavor profile. Instant coffee brands are preferred over espresso or freeze-dried coffee because they contain less oil, allowing the coffee to froth up nicely. When it comes to whipping the coffee, sugar is an essential ingredient as well.
The granules help thicken the water and create stronger foam walls. However, it’s worth noting that you can make Dalgona coffee without adding any sugar, but be aware that the foam may not hold its shape as long.
Espresso Negroni
Among the variations of Negroni cocktails, one stands out – the Espresso Negroni. This adaptation adds a distinctive twist to the original by incorporating coffee into its mix. Typically, Negronis are composed of sweet vermouth, gin, and Campari, an Italian liqueur renowned for its complex flavor profile featuring notes of orange, clove, cinnamon, and cherry.
The bold and rich addition of espresso in the Espresso Negroni can sometimes result in a bitter taste experience, but fortunately, the fruit and wine undertones help to offset this effect. As a mature cocktail with inherent depth, the Espresso Negroni further amplifies these qualities. Nevertheless, it is advisable for those already familiar with the classic Negroni to try this version, as its unique character may require some time to appreciate fully.
Death By Morning
Making cocktails with absinthe as the base is nothing new, but this particular recipe takes a unique approach by combining it with coffee liqueur and espresso to create a bold and rich flavor profile reminiscent of Ernest Hemingway’s infamous Death in the Afternoon cocktail. Although absinthe is the foundation of the drink, the addition of coffee liqueur adds a noticeable depth, while the espresso brings strong dark notes that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.
That being said, you don’t necessarily need an espresso machine to make this cocktail, as cold brew can be used as a substitute – although it’s worth noting that cold brew often contains more caffeine than espresso, so if you’re planning on consuming this cocktail before bed, it might be best to enjoy it earlier in the evening.
Spanish Coffee With Brandy Cocktail
Diverse regional traditions often blend unique ingredients in unconventional ways, such as the Spanish practice of combining coffee and brandy before noon. However, this combination is also enjoyed in the evening, setting it apart from more modern cocktail trends. Morning consumption typically involves serving each drink separately, with people sipping their liquor alongside a glass of freshly brewed coffee.
In contrast, an evening Carajilo combines both ingredients, creating a distinctive twist on the classic brandy and coffee pairing. This cocktail is elevated by the addition of orange zest and brown sugar, resulting in a sweet and fruity flavor profile that complements bold espresso notes perfectly. To add a touch of luxury to your drink, top it with whipping cream and garnish with orange zest for a visually appealing finish.
The Siciliano
Smooth and subtle, the Siciliano is an ideal choice for those who prefer their cocktails on the lighter side. While it does feature coffee notes, they are not overpowering, and the cherry flavors from the vermouth take center stage. Sipping this drink is a gentle experience on the palate, with a pleasant effervescence that evokes the sensation of sipping a coffee-flavored soda.
However, don’t be fooled – the combination of caffeine and vermouth can still pack a punch, so be sure to sip responsibly. To finish, pour your Siciliano into a martini glass and garnish with a cherry skewered cocktail stick for a touch of elegance.
Prairie Buzz
Coffee Brandy Alexander Cocktail
Building upon the traditional Brandy Alexander cocktail recipe, which typically consists of creme de cacao, cream, and cognac (for a full list of 17 simple cognac cocktails, refer back to ’17 Simple Cognac Cocktails’ for inspiration), this coffee-infused variation is surprisingly easy to prepare. By simply adding a splash of coffee liqueur on top, you’ll be able to create a rich and indulgent cocktail that’s packed with sweet and creamy notes.
The combination of cognac and cream yields subtle hints of vanilla and chocolate throughout the drink, while the addition of the liqueur brings forth satisfying rich and bitter flavors that perfectly balance the sweetness. For those who prefer a slightly less sweet drink, consider substituting the coffee liqueur for an espresso shot – just be aware that this may introduce more caffeine into your cocktail.
Directions
Following these simple steps will help you get started with cooking: choose a recipe from the list of available options, click on it to be redirected to its official website, gather all the necessary ingredients, prepare and cook the dish according to the instructions provided, then sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor – don’t forget to leave a review once you’ve finished!
