A customized carter move mug that says Coffee on it
A customized carter move mug that says Coffee on it

Put the “bar” in your home brew bar with these creative coffee cocktail recipes. Whether it's to kick off a happy hour or to close out a dinner party, coffee cocktails provide a delightful marriage of flavors that appeals to both coffee lovers and cocktail aficionados alike. Through artful blending, you can add a new dimension of complexity, aroma and taste to your brew.

Tips for making the perfect coffee cocktail

When aiming to craft the perfect coffee cocktail, your target is a harmonious blend of flavors for an optimal drinking experience. Here are a few tips for creating a coffee cocktail that caters to a variety of tastes and occasions:

1. Utilize simple syrup wisely: It helps sweeten the drink and balance the perceived bitterness of the coffee when paired with alcohol. The quantity should be adjusted according to individual preferences to achieve the desired sweetness.

2. Select quality coffee liqueur: Opt for a reputable brand that offers a rich and authentic coffee flavor to enhance the overall taste of the cocktail.

3. Master the art of shaking: A cocktail shaker blends and chills the ingredients effectively. Ensure a thorough and vigorous shake to uniformly combine the coffee, liqueur and any other components. This produces the desired texture and frothiness of the drink.

4. Experiment with coffee concentrations: Whether it's a shot of strong espresso, a smooth cold brew or a potent brewed coffee, the right coffee strength dictates the drink's taste and character.

5. Consider the timing and occasion: Certain coffee cocktails are ideal for an energetic start to an evening, while others are great for winding down after a meal - many cultures drink coffee as a digestive aid! Tailor your choice of coffee cocktail based on the time of day and the intended occasion.

Choosing the right coffee for your cocktail

Coffee, with its diverse flavors and strengths, serves as the backbone of any coffee cocktail. The selection can range from bold and intense espresso shots to smooth and milder cold brews. Knowing how different styles interact with other ingredients in a cocktail ensures you achieve the desired taste and balance. By understanding the coffee's strength, brewing method and overall flavor profile, you can elevate your cocktail-making experience.

  • Match coffee strength with cocktail profile: Stronger coffee, such as espresso, can be the centerpiece of bold, intense cocktails; whereas, a milder brew may work well in more delicate or subtly flavored drinks.

  • Consider cold brew for smoothness: Cold brew coffee can be an excellent choice for coffee cocktails requiring a milder and less pronounced coffee flavor. The slow brewing process produces a smooth, round coffee base that complements various liqueurs and mixers.

  • Use blends for a balance of flavors: Beans with varying flavors and aromas can elevate the overall taste and offer a true sensory experience.

    • Feel free to be adventurous, but know your intended flavor profile. Before long, you'll master the art of creating the perfect coffee cocktail for any occasion.

    Specialty coffee cocktail recipes

    Whether you’re hosting a shindig or are just looking to experiment with some home mixology, the following recipes offer a symphony of flavors to wake up your taste buds.

    Add pizzazz to your Irish coffee

    The beloved Irish coffee is an after-dinner classic, a bold brunch choice, and maybe the perfect drink for an airport layover: some say that’s where it was invented! Here are three ways to transform it.

    Spiced Maple Irish Coffee

    Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 ounces of Irish whiskey
  • 1 ounce of spiced maple syrup
  • Freshly brewed hot coffee
  • 2-3 tablespoons of whipped cream
  • Cinnamon stick for garnish

    • Coconut Rum Irish Coffee

    Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 ounces of Irish whiskey
  • 1/2 ounce of coconut rum
  • 1/2 ounce of demerara syrup
  • Freshly brewed hot coffee
  • 2-3 tablespoon of coconut whipped cream
  • Toasted coconut flakes for garnish

    • Vanilla Hazelnut Irish Coffee

    Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 ounces of Irish whiskey
  • 1/2 ounce of hazelnut liqueur
  • 1/2 ounce of vanilla syrup
  • Freshly brewed hot coffee
  • 2-3 tablespoons of vanilla whipped cream
  • Hazelnuts for garnish

    • Elevate your Espresso Martini

    The classic espresso martini has made a surprising resurgence in the cocktail world in recent years.  Here are three ways to zhuzh it up.

    Vanilla Infused Espresso Martini

    Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 ounces of premium vodka
  • 1 ounce of coffee liqueur (high-quality)
  • 1/2 ounce of vanilla-infused vodka
  • 1/2 ounce of freshly brewed espresso
  • 1/4 ounce of vanilla syrup
  • Ice
  • Cacao nibs and vanilla bean for garnish

    • Spiced Chocolate Espresso Martini

    Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 ounces of spiced rum
  • 1 ounce of chocolate liqueur (premium)
  • 1/2 ounce of cold brew coffee
  • 1/2 ounce of freshly brewed espresso
  • 1/4 ounce of cinnamon syrup
  • Ice
  • Whipped cream, cocoa powder and cinnamon stick for garnish

    • Orange Mocha Espresso Martini

    Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 ounces of premium vodka
  • 1 ounce of coffee liqueur (high-quality)
  • 1/2 ounce of orange liqueur (e.g., cointreau)
  • 1/2 ounce of freshly brewed espresso
  • 1/4 ounce of chocolate syrup
  • Ice
  • Orange zest and chocolate shavings for garnish

    • Ready to start?

    Ensure your brew bar is stocked with coffee essentials and our serving suggestion: a set of Stagg Tasting Glasses.