Irish Coffee Recipe
The distinctive taste of Irish whiskey and Kahlua
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Ingredients
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Coffee Base
Spirits & Liqueur
Cream Topping
Garnish
Method
Coffee Base
- 1
Preheat and brew
Preheat a heatproof Irish coffee glass or mug by filling it with hot water and letting it sit for 1 minute, then discard the water. Brew 1.5 cups of strong hot coffee (drip or French press) and have it piping hot.
- 2
Add the brown sugar to the warmed glass. Pour the hot brewed coffee into the glass and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved, creating a sweetened coffee base.
Spirits & Liqueur
- 3
Measure and add the Irish whiskey and Kahlúa to the sweetened hot coffee. Stir gently to combine so the alcohol is evenly distributed.
Cream Topping
- 4
Lightly whip the cream
Pour the heavy whipping cream into a small chilled bowl. Add the vanilla extract if using. Whip the cream by hand or with a whisk until it reaches soft-peak consistency — it should be slightly thickened but still pourable (not fully whipped stiff).
- 5
Hold a spoon upside down over the coffee surface and gently pour the soft-whipped cream over the back of the spoon so the cream floats on top of the coffee, forming a distinct layer.
Garnish & Serve
- 6
Lightly dust the floating cream with freshly grated nutmeg or a pinch of cocoa powder for aroma and visual appeal.
- 7
Serve immediately while the coffee is hot and the cream layer remains distinct. Instruct guests to sip the hot coffee through the cold cream for the classic experience.