Carajillo Recipe

Chill glass (optional)

Place a rocks glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail to lightly chill it, then discard the ice water before serving.

Build and chill

Fill a mixing glass or shaker with ice (enough to chill efficiently). Add 1.5 oz Don Julio Blanco tequila, 0.75 oz Kahlúa, 0.5 oz Licor 43, and 0.75 oz cold brew espresso. If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink, add 0.25 oz simple syrup.

Stir or shake

For a silky, slightly diluted texture, stir the mixture with a bar spoon for 15–20 seconds until well chilled (recommended). For a frothier, more aerated profile, shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds and then strain.

Prepare glass

Fill the chilled rocks glass with 1–2 large ice cubes or a few regular cubes.

Strain and serve

Strain the chilled cocktail over the prepared ice in the rocks glass. If you used a shaker, double-strain to remove small ice shards for clarity.

Garnish

Express the oils of an orange twist over the drink by holding the twist over the glass and pinching to release oils, then drop the twist into the glass as garnish.

Tasting notes

The Don Julio provides bright agave and peppery notes, Kahlúa brings sweet coffee and molasses, Licor 43 adds vanilla-citrus warmth, and cold brew contributes concentrated espresso bitterness — balance sweetness with the optional simple syrup to taste.