Buzz
Discover the perfect blend of coffee and booze, anytime, anywhere.
There's something special about enjoying a hot cup of coffee in the morning or unwinding with a refreshing cocktail at night. Sometimes, you just want both! With the following recipes, you can enjoy two favorites in one: coffee drinks with a boozy twist. From fruity and fresh to rich and creamy, explore these alcohol-infused coffee creations, and become a master barista and bartender!
Note: All recipes listed below make 1 serving, unless stated otherwise—just multiply the ingredients for larger batches to share with friends!
Alcohol-Infused Coffee Creations
- Carajillo: Combine equal parts espresso and Licor 43 over ice.
- Irish Coffee: Blend hot coffee with brown sugar and Irish whiskey.
- Mudslide Cocktail: Blend ice, vodka, Kahlua, and Bailey's for a creamy indulgence.
- Cold Brew Sangria: Mix red wine, cold brew coffee, brandy, and fresh fruit slices.
- Espresso Martini: Shake together espresso, simple syrup, Kahlua, and vodka for a bold, energizing cocktail.
Preparation Instructions
Irish Coffee
A timeless Irish coffee is the perfect drink to keep you cozy from the inside out! Start by preheating a mug with hot water, then discard the water. Brew 1 cup (240 mL) of hot coffee and pour it into the warmed glass, filling it about ¾ of the way. Add 1 tablespoon (15g) of brown sugar and stir until it dissolves. Mix in 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) of Irish whiskey and top it off with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
- Key Ingredients: Freshly brewed hot coffee, brown sugar, Irish whiskey, whipped cream.
- Variations: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a deeper flavor, or cool the drink and blend it with ice for a frozen version!
- Pairs well with: Decadent dark chocolate truffles or a gooey molten chocolate cake.
Mexican Coffee
This spicy twist on the classic Irish Coffee brings a little extra heat and flavor! In a mug, mix 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) of coffee-flavored liqueur with 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) of tequila. Add 5 fluid ounces (150 mL) of hot coffee and top it off with a swirl of whipped cream.
- Key Ingredients: Coffee-flavored liqueur (like Kahlua), tequila, hot coffee, whipped cream.
- Variations: Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or cayenne pepper for a sweet or spicy twist.
- Pairs well with: Light, sweet desserts like vanilla ice cream or a creamy banana cream pie.
Grand French Coffee
Let this Grand French coffee cocktail keep you chaud on a cold wintry night. Pour 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) Grand Marnier orange liqueur into a cup or glass. Add 2–4 fluid ounces (59–118 mL) of hot, freshly-brewed coffee. Allow the drink to cool for 1-2 minutes before topping it with freshly whipped cream.
- Key Ingredients: Grand Marnier, hot coffee, fresh whipped cream.
- Variations: Add 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) of cognac or brandy to transform your Grand French into a Parisian Coffee Cocktail.
- Pairs well with: Delightful French-inspired pastries, such as a warm butter or chocolate croissant.
Spanish Coffee
A Spanish coffee combines rum and coffee for a delightful dessert cocktail. Pour 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) of Tía María coffee liqueur into a mug along with 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) of rum. Add 6 fluid ounces (180 mL) of hot coffee, then finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry on top!
- Key Ingredients: Tía María coffee liqueur, rum, hot coffee, whipped cream, maraschino cherries.
- Variations: Substitute rum with brandy for a smoother, fruitier flavor.
- Pairs well with: A classic Spanish dessert like churros!
Carajillo
The simple yet bold carajillo is a popular after-dinner drink in Mexico. Pour 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) of espresso or strong coffee into a cocktail shaker. Add 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) of Licor 43, then fill the shaker with ice and seal. Shake for 15 seconds, strain, and pour into a cocktail glass. The result should be smooth, velvety, and slightly foamy.
- Key Ingredients: Espresso or strong coffee, Licor 43 (a sweet, spicy, and citrusy Spanish liqueur).
- Variations: Add a creamy touch with horchata, or infuse it with a few pumps of flavored simple syrup.
- Pairs well with: Nothing! The carajillo is a perfect digestif, typically enjoyed between courses, especially after dinner and before dessert.
Caffè Corretto (Italian Coffee)
Start your day with a genuine Buongiorno by sipping this deliciously spirited Italian coffee cocktail. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and combine 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) of chilled espresso, 3⁄4 fluid ounce (22 mL) of espresso liqueur, 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) of Fernet-Branca amaro, and 1⁄4 fluid ounce (7.4 mL) of simple syrup. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. For the finishing touch, garnish with three espresso beans.
- Key Ingredients: Chilled espresso, espresso liqueur, amaro, simple syrup, espresso beans.
- Variations: The caffè corretto can be made with grappa, sambuca, or brandy. You can customize it by swapping the amaro for any of these delightful spirits.
- Pairs well with: Nothing! This is typically served as a digestif, enjoyed after lunch or dinner.
Rüdesheimer Kaffee
Rüdesheimer is an authentic, indulgent German coffee drink with a perfect blend of warmth and sweetness. Place 3 sugar cubes in a mug. Heat 1.33 fluid ounces (39 mL) of dry brandy in the microwave and pour it over the sugar cubes. Carefully ignite the brandy with a long match. Stir the drink until the sugar dissolves completely, then pour in 4 fluid ounces (120 mL) of brewed coffee. Finish it off with a topping of whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Key Ingredients: Sugar cubes, dry brandy, strong brewed coffee, whipped cream, chocolate shavings.
- Variations: You can skip the brandy or omit the whipped cream for a non-alcoholic or dairy-free alternative.
- Pairs well with: Traditional German cinnamon cookies, especially zimtsterne (cinnamon stars).
Espresso Martini
Treat yourself to a rich and velvety espresso martini that will keep the energy flowing all night long! Start by brewing 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) of espresso and letting it cool. Once cooled, pour it over a shaker filled with ice, followed by 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) simple syrup, 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) coffee liqueur, and 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) vodka. Shake vigorously and strain the drink into a martini glass. For the finishing touch, add espresso beans on top.
- Key Ingredients: Vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, simple syrup, espresso beans.
- Variations: Add a splash of vanilla or cherry liqueur, or swap the vodka with Jamaican rum for a twist.
- Pairs well with: Classic Italian dishes like antipasto misto, chicken parmigiana, tiramisu, or a fruit and cheese board with a tangy kick.
Peppermint Mocha Martini
Embrace the festive mood with this holiday-inspired spin on the traditional espresso martini. Crush candy canes on a plate. Dip the rim of your martini glass in chocolate syrup, then coat it with the crushed candy canes for a frosty touch. In a shaker, combine 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) of espresso, 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) vodka, 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) Bailey’s Irish Cream, and 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 mL) of chocolate syrup. Shake well and strain into the rimmed glass.
- Key Ingredients: Espresso, vodka, Bailey’s Irish Cream, chocolate syrup, candy canes.
- Variations: For a non-alcoholic version, swap the vodka and Bailey’s with 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) of heavy cream.
- Pairs well with: Festive desserts such as sugar cookies, yule log cakes, and, of course, candy canes!
Caramel Macchiato Martini
Turn your favorite Starbucks drink into a boozy treat. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) of caramel liqueur, 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) of coffee liqueur, and 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) of vanilla vodka. Shake well and pour into a martini glass.
- Key Ingredients: Caramel liqueur, coffee liqueur, vanilla vodka.
- Variations: For a salted twist, swap the vanilla vodka for salted caramel vodka and garnish with caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Pairs well with: Savory or smoky appetizers like prosciutto-wrapped bites or bacon-wrapped prunes.
Dalgona Martini
Take the viral whipped dalgona coffee to the next level with this boozy twist. Start by whisking 1 tablespoon (15g) instant coffee, 1 tablespoon (15g) sugar, and 1⁄8 fluid ounce (3.7 mL) boiling water until stiff peaks form (about 2 minutes). In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) vodka, 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) coffee liqueur, and 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) simple syrup. Shake until cold and strain the mixture into a glass. Top with the whipped coffee and stir gently to combine.
- Key Ingredients: Instant coffee, sugar, simple syrup, vodka, coffee liqueur.
- Variations: Turn it into an affogato by adding a scoop of coffee ice cream.
- Pairs well with: Brunch favorites like fluffy pancakes or savory eggs benedict.
Tiramisu Martini
Savor the indulgent flavors of the classic Italian dessert in a martini glass! Add ice to a cocktail shaker, then fill it with 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) vanilla vodka, 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) amaretto, 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) coffee liqueur, and a splash of half-and-half. Shake well and strain the concoction into a martini glass. Finish with a light dusting of cocoa powder.
- Key Ingredients: Vanilla vodka, amaretto, coffee liqueur, half and half, cocoa powder.
- Variations: Place a ladyfinger biscuit on the rim of the glass for a playful, edible stir stick that honors tiramisu!
- Pairs well with: Fresh berries, chocolate pudding, or a delightful dessert following a satisfying pasta meal.
Coffee Negroni
Give the classic negroni a twist by adding the deep flavors of coffee and sweet vermouth. Brew 25g (0.88oz) of coffee using 240 millilitres (8.1 fl oz) of sweet vermouth instead of water. Pour this coffee into an ice-filled shaker along with 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) London dry gin and 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) Campari. Strain the mixture over a large ice cube in a glass and garnish with a twist of orange peel.
- Key Ingredients: London dry gin, Campari, coffee-brewed sweet vermouth.
- Variations: Replace the brewed coffee with 3⁄4 fluid ounce (22 mL) cold brew coffee liqueur and 1⁄4 fluid ounce (7.4 mL) sweet vermouth.
- Pairs well with: A sweet and savory snack board featuring berries, chocolate, and soft cheeses.
Coffee Old Fashioned
Indulge in a bold fusion of coffee and bourbon with this inventive cocktail. Add ice to a cocktail shaker, then pour in 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) bourbon, 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) coffee liqueur, 1⁄4 fluid ounce (7.4 mL) simple syrup, 2 dashes of orange bitters, and 1 dash of Angostura bitters. Shake until chilled, then strain into an old-fashioned glass over a large ice cube.
- Key Ingredients: Bourbon, coffee liqueur, simple syrup, orange bitters, Angostura bitters.
- Variations: Add a touch of maple syrup for a richer, more complex flavor profile.
- Pairs well with: A wood-fired steak or roasted almonds dusted with orange zest.
Black Russian Cocktail
Black Russians are the perfect mix of bold flavors with just two simple ingredients. In a rocks glass, combine 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) vodka with 3⁄4 fluid ounce (22 mL) coffee-flavored liqueur. Add ice and stir to blend the ingredients together. Garnish with a slice of orange or a maraschino cherry.
- Key Ingredients: Vodka, coffee-flavored liqueur.
- Variations: For an extra depth of flavor, add a few dashes of orange bitters to accentuate the coffee notes.
- Pairs well with: Bold appetizers like smoked salmon, crab cakes, and tomato bruschetta.
White Russian
Experience the creamy and coffee-flavored delight that the Big Lebowski swears by. Fill an old-fashioned glass with ice, then pour in 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) vodka and 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) coffee liqueur. Add 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) heavy cream and stir the mixture.
- Key Ingredients: Vodka, coffee-flavored liqueur, heavy cream.
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Variations:
- Peppermint White Russian: Swap 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) of vodka for 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) peppermint schnapps, and add a candy cane rim.
- Pumpkin Spice White Russian: Replace the heavy cream with pumpkin spice creamer and rim the glass with crushed graham crackers and pumpkin pie spice.
- Tiramisu White Russian: Add 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) tiramisu syrup to the mix for an extra indulgence.
- Pairs well with: BBQ chicken, sausage rolls, or a handful of chocolate-covered pretzels.
Tiramisu Shots
Craving a quick fix of decadent tiramisu? These layered shots are the perfect indulgence. In a shaker filled with ice, combine 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) vodka and 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) coffee liqueur. Shake and strain into a shot glass. Slowly pour 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) Bailey’s Irish Cream over the back of a spoon into the shot glass. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa dust.
- Key Ingredients: Vodka, Bailey’s Irish Cream, coffee liqueur, whipped cream, cocoa powder.
- Variations: Add 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) heavy cream into the Bailey’s for a smoother texture and a softer whiskey flavor.
- Pairs well with: Another round of shots! Ideally, an espresso shot or a small cup of amaretto liqueur.
Mudslide Cocktail
Indulge in a milkshake, cocktail, and coffee all in one with a retro '70s mudslide. Blend 3 cups (332g) crushed ice, 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) vodka, 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) coffee liqueur, and 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) Bailey’s until smooth, about 15-30 seconds. Drizzle chocolate syrup around the inside of the glass, then pour in the blended drink. Finish it off with a maraschino cherry.
- Key Ingredients: Vodka, coffee liqueur, Bailey’s Irish Cream, chocolate syrup.
- Variations: Add some nostalgic charm with a marshmallow fluff rim and 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) toasted marshmallow syrup.
- Pairs well with: A plate of classic, extra-salty potato fries.
Toasted Marshmallow Campfire Cocktail
Relive summer memories with this s’mores-inspired cocktail. Bring 250 millilitres (8.5 fl oz) of water and 1 cup (200g) sugar to a soft boil, then stir in 10 marshmallows until dissolved. Strain the marshmallow simple syrup through a sieve into a small bowl. Once cooled, heat 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) of the syrup with 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) Irish cream and 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) vanilla rum in a microwave or on the stovetop.
- Key Ingredients: Irish Cream, vanilla rum, marshmallows, granulated sugar.
- Variations: Add a splash of whiskey for an extra kick!
- Pairs well with: A s’more, of course! Or perhaps a pan of Jiffy Pop to keep the campfire vibes alive.
Drunken Pumpkin Latte
Celebrate the arrival of fall with a boozy twist on the pumpkin spice latte. In a cup, combine ½ tablespoon (7.5g) sugar and a dash of cinnamon with 1⁄2 cup (120 mL) hot coffee, stirring until dissolved. Add 1⁄8 cup (30 mL) milk, 1⁄8 cup (30 mL) RumChata, and 2 tablespoons (30 mL) pumpkin pie vodka. Stir until well mixed and serve warm over ice.
- Key Ingredients: Coffee, milk, RumChata, pumpkin pie vodka, sugar, cinnamon.
- Variations: For a more intense pumpkin flavor, whisk in a spoonful of pumpkin puree.
- Pairs well with: Any autumn-inspired treat, like a cinnamon sugar muffin or a slice of apple pie.
Bailey’s Coffee Slushies
Enjoy coffee cocktails year-round with this boozy and refreshing Bailey’s shake. Freeze 150 mL (⅔ cup) of cold brew in an ice cube tray until fully frozen. Blend the coffee cubes with 30 mL (⅛ cup) cold brew, 30 mL (⅛ cup) milk, 15 mL (1/16 cup) Bailey’s, and 15 mL (1/16 cup) vodka until smooth. Drizzle chocolate and caramel sauce into your glass, then pour in the shake and finish with a topping of whipped cream.
- Key Ingredients: Cold-brew coffee, milk, Bailey’s Irish Cream, vodka.
- Variations: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy texture!
- Pairs well with: A salty snack, such as French fries or a bowl of salted pretzels.
Spiked Cold Brew
Give your favorite morning brew a little extra kick! Fill a glass with ice and pour in cold brew coffee, filling the cup halfway. Add 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) Bailey’s Irish Cream to the cold brew, then stir to combine.
- Key Ingredients: Cold brew, Bailey’s Irish Cream.
- Variations: Switch out Bailey’s for another type of alcohol, like spiced rum or vanilla vodka.
- Pairs well with: Mini powdered donuts or any breakfast dish you’d typically enjoy with cold brew!
Cold Brew Sangria
Cool off with this refreshing take on a fruity summer sangria. In a large pitcher, combine 1 bottle of red wine, 1 cup (240 mL) cold brew, 1⁄2 cup (120 mL) brandy, and 1⁄4 cup (59 mL) orange liqueur. Mix in 1⁄4 cup (59 mL) honey and an assortment of sliced fruits like oranges, lemons, and seasonal berries. Let the sangria chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour, adding ice just before serving.
- Key Ingredients: Red wine, cold brew, brandy, orange liqueur, fruits, honey.
- Variations: For a bubbly twist, top the glasses with club soda or sparkling water when serving.
- Pairs well with: Rich cheeses like gorgonzola or stilton, or classic Spanish tapas such as croquettes and seafood paella.
- Note: This recipe makes one full pitcher of cold brew sangria.
Coffee and Coconut Cooler
This tropical coffee cocktail is the ideal drink for a sunny day. Mix together 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) coconut rum, 4 fluid ounces (120 mL) cold brew coffee, and 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) coconut milk. Add ice and garnish with toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch.
- Key Ingredients: Cold brew coffee, coconut milk, coconut rum.
- Variations: Add a splash of coconut water to lighten the drink and enhance the coconut flavor.
- Pairs well with: Light and fresh dishes like shrimp tacos or a seasonal fruit salad.
Long Island Iced Coffee
This drink is all about the sweet coffee taste with a strong alcoholic punch. Fill a shaker with ice, then add 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) Bailey’s, 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) coffee liqueur, 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) vodka, 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) white rum, 1⁄2 fluid ounce (15 mL) tequila, and 2 fluid ounces (59 mL) cold brew coffee. Shake well, then strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
- Key Ingredients: Bailey’s Irish Cream, coffee liqueur, vodka, white rum, tequila, cold brew coffee.
- Variations: Swap the cold brew for iced coffee to reduce the caffeine content.
- Pairs well with: Shrimp cocktail, grilled salmon, or a platter of oysters.
