How to Make a Coffee Cocktail

If you love coffee and enjoy a good drink, coffee cocktails are a perfect match. They blend the bold taste of coffee beans with a splash of your favourite spirits, creating a refreshing and sophisticated drink option. Whether you’re hosting guests or looking for after-dinner drinks, these coffee cocktail recipes can add a fun twist to your coffee experience.

Making cocktails with coffee is easier than you might think, and you don’t need to be a bartender to whip up something special. With just a few ingredients, you can create a drink that highlights the rich flavours of coffee while adding a twist of something spirited. 

Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is a classic cocktail perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy a little kick. This cocktail combines the boldness of espresso with the smoothness of vodka, creating an energising and comforting drink. Here’s how to make an espresso martini: 

Ingredients

• 1 shot of freshly brewed espresso 
• 45 ml vodka
• 25 ml coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
• 15 ml simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
• Coffee beans to garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Brew the Espresso: Start by brewing a fresh shot of espresso. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup (if using).
3. Shake It Up: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want to create a nice froth from the espresso.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. For an elegant touch, you can use a fine mesh strainer to get a smooth pour.
5. Garnish: If you want to get fancy, float a couple of coffee beans on top for garnish.

Irish Coffee

A classic Irish Coffee is timeless and perfectly combines the warmth of coffee with the smoothness of Irish whiskey. This comforting drink is ideal for chilly evenings or a delightful after-dinner treat.

Ingredients

• Enough hot brewed black coffee to fill the glass
• 25 ml Irish whiskey
• 3tsp brown sugar (or to taste)
• Heavy cream, lightly whipped (for topping)

Instructions

1. Warm the Glass: Start by warming your glass or mug by filling it with hot water. Let it sit for a minute, then empty it.
2. Mix the Coffee and Whiskey: Pour in the hot brewed coffee, leaving some space at the top. Add the whiskey and brown sugar, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Top with Cream: Gently spoon the lightly whipped cream over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the coffee mixture. This creates a beautiful layer, and enjoy!

Amaretto Coffee

Amaretto Coffee is a deliciously sweet and nutty drink that brings a delightful twist to your regular cup of joe. The almond flavour pairs beautifully with coffee, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

• 240 ml hot brewed coffee
• 25 ml amaretto liqueur
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Almonds, cinnamon powder or cocoa powder (for decoration, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Coffee: Start with a fresh cup of hot brewed coffee with some space at the top.
2. Add Amaretto: Pour the liqueur into your coffee mug.
3. Combine: Stir gently to mix the flavours.
4. Top with Whipped Cream: Finish off by adding a generous dollop of whipped cream on top.
5. Toppings: For an extra touch, sprinkle with almonds, cinnamon or cocoa powder.

Iced Coffee Cocktail 

Making a cocktail with iced coffee is refreshing and perfect for warm days or whenever you want a chilled coffee treat. This cocktail combines the invigorating taste of coffee with the coolness of ice and a splash of your favourite spirit.

Ingredients

• 240 ml cold brewed coffee or chilled coffee
• 30 ml vodka or coffee liqueur
• 15 ml simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes
• Milk or cream (optional, to taste)
• Coffee beans or chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Coffee: Brew your coffee beforehand and chill it in the refrigerator until cold.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a tall glass, add ice cubes, then pour in the cold brewed coffee, vodka (or coffee liqueur), and simple syrup. Stir gently to combine.
3. Add Milk or Cream: If you prefer a creamier drink, add a splash of milk or cream to taste.
4. Top it Off: Top with coffee beans or chocolate shavings for a lovely finish.

Calypso Coffee

Calypso Coffee is a tropical twist on a classic, combining the rich flavours of coffee with the sweetness of rum and a hint of coconut. This cocktail is perfect for those looking to escape to a sunny paradise, even if it’s just in their glass.

Ingredients

• 240 ml hot brewed coffee
• 25 ml dark rum
• 15 ml coconut cream
• 15 ml coffee liqueur (optional)
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Toasted coconut flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Brew the Coffee: Start with a fresh cup of hot brewed coffee.
2. Mix in the Spirits: In a heatproof glass or mug, combine the hot coffee with dark rum and coconut cream. If you’re using coffee liqueur, add it in as well.
3. Stir Well: Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
4. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for an extra tropical touch.

Baileys Coffee

Baileys Coffee is a creamy, indulgent treat that combines the rich flavours of coffee with the smoothness of Baileys Irish Cream. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and comforting drink, making it an excellent choice for dessert or a cosy evening.

Ingredients

• 240 ml fresh, hot coffee
• 25 ml Baileys Irish Cream
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Coffee: Start with a hot brewed coffee made however you like it (we prefer French press for this method).
2. Add Baileys: Pour the Baileys Irish Cream into your coffee mug.
3. Combine: Add the hot coffee to the mug, stirring gently to mix the flavours.
4. Top with Whipped Cream: Finish off by adding a generous dollop of whipped cream on top.
5. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

Irish Affogato

The Irish Affogato is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining rich espresso with the smoothness of whiskey and a scoop of creamy ice cream. This easy coffee recipe is perfect for coffee lovers who want to enjoy a sweet finish to their meal.

Ingredients

• 1 shot (25 ml) of hot espresso
• 25 ml Irish whiskey
• 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Make Your Espresso: Start by making a fresh shot of hot espresso with your preferred brewing method, like an espresso machine.
2. Prepare the Ice Cream: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a serving bowl or glass.
3. Combine: Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream, followed by the whiskey.
4. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top for an extra touch.

Get Started with Brew Box Coffee

Ready to create your own delicious classic coffee cocktails at home? At Brew Box Coffee, we offer a changing selection of speciality coffee beans that are perfect for mixing into your favourite drinks. From rich, bold espresso to smooth blends, our coffees will enhance your cocktail experience.

In addition to our great coffee, we provide all the coffee equipment and accessories you need to brew like a pro. Whether you're looking for a quality espresso coffee machine, a reliable grinder, or other essential tools, we’ve got everything you need to get started.

Explore our collection today and stock up on coffee and equipment to help you craft the perfect coffee cocktails. With Brew Box Coffee, you can enjoy café-quality drinks right in your own home!