Cocktail
Irish Coffee
How to make an Irish Coffee - the warming classic of Irish whiskey, hot coffee, brown sugar and a cap of cream. The original IBA recipe.
7 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
Irish coffee glassGlass
1Serving(s)
The Irish Coffee was invented in the 1940s at the airport in Foynes, Ireland, to warm up frozen travellers. The combination of hot coffee, robust Irish whiskey and cool cream is a treat for cold days. The contrast between warm and cool makes it the perfect winter drink.
Instructions
- Prewarm the Irish coffee glass with hot water and empty it.
- Add the brown sugar and Irish whiskey to the glass.
- Top up with hot coffee and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Let the lightly whipped cream slide gently onto the coffee over a bar spoon.
- Do not stir and drink through the cream layer.
Garnish: Grated nutmeg or cocoa (optional)
Pro tip: Whip the cream only until half-stiff and pour it over the back of a bar spoon - this way it floats cleanly on top instead of sinking.
Frequently asked questions
Why doesn't the cream float on top?
If the cream sinks, it was usually too liquid or the coffee not sweet enough. Half-stiff whipped cream and dissolved sugar stabilize the layer.
Which whiskey is best suited?
A mild Irish whiskey like Jameson is the classic choice and pairs ideally with the coffee thanks to its soft, slightly sweet character.
Can I use espresso instead?
Filter coffee is traditional and gives the right volume. With espresso the drink becomes stronger, so it should be diluted with a little hot water.
Ingredients
- Irish Whiskey4 cl
- Hot filter coffee9 cl
- Brown sugar1 tsp
- Lightly whipped cream3 cl
