Irish coffee is a classic and timeless beverage that many people crave but few can truly make. Irish coffee is a wonderful way to end a long day or perhaps to celebrate a special occasion. Making an Irish coffee is quite easy. To make them, you don’t need any special tools or bartending knowledge. To learn how to brew Irish coffee at home in a few easy steps, simply follow our recipe down below.
What is Irish coffee? Although Irish Coffee may not have been the first alcoholic coffee beverage, it has grown to be one of the most well-known coffee drinks. The Irish Coffee is a hot, creamy classic that combines coffee with Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and lightly whipped cream. It can help you wake up on chilly mornings or keep you going after a long night.
Classic Irish coffees are made with just four ingredients: hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar and whipped cream. The best part about making Irish coffee at home is you can make them exactly how you like them.
What will you need to make Irish coffee
The Sweetener– which is essential here, whether you’re a fan of sweet coffee or not. It’s not only for the flavor, though – it actually helps keep the cream floating on top! Some recipes suggest straight white sugar while others use brown sugar, molasses, or a combination of sweeteners.
The Whiskey – The star of this drink, Irish whiskey, is what really ties it together! Make sure you get the good whiskey or you’ll be shooting yourself in the foot before you even start. PRO TIP: We recommend using Jameson whiskey.
The Cream – Irish coffee without cream is like peanut butter without jelly. Some recipes suggest making the cream differently, follow one that you think suits your preference. PRO TIP: If the cream is too stiff, pour a little liquid cream into it and fold gently – it floats like a dream and drinks like velvet.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar or any sweetener
- 3/4 cup hot coffee
- 1 1/2 ounces Irish whiskey
- Whipped cream
- Nutmeg powder or chocolate sprinkle (optional)
Methods
- Brew your favorite coffee. You can make regular drip coffee, French press or espresso. As long as your brew is intensely flavored, you’re on the right path.
- Add brown sugar or any sweetener. Combine the brown sugar and coffee in your cup. Stir.
- Add Irish whisky to the coffee mixture. Add the Irish whiskey like Jameson Whisky and stir thoroughly.
- Add cream on top. Our favorite cream for Irish coffee is half and half. To make half and half, simply whisk cream until soft peaks form. Once the cream is thick, pour the cream over the back of the spoon very carefully.
- Lastly, whip the cream. Lightly whip the cream. You can use any whip cream brand that you like.
- Optional, sprinkle some nutmeg powder or chocolate granule into your drink.
Some Irish coffee variations
- Serve it on ice. Pour cold brew coffee or double-strength brewed coffee over a cup filled with ice.
- Make it extra creamy and rich. Substitute Irish cream like Baileys for some or all of the whiskey.
- Lighten it up. If you’re looking for a less boozy drink, simply ease up on the whiskey.
