Warm, bold, and smooth, Irish Coffee is a classic cocktail that combines hot coffee, Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and a layer of lightly whipped cream. This drink is equal parts comforting and invigorating, offering a perfect balance of richness and warmth.
First crafted in the 1940s for weary travelers at an Irish airport, Irish Coffee has since become a beloved after-dinner drink, known for its smooth blend of whiskey and coffee flavors, softened by velvety cream.
What Makes Irish Coffee Special?
🔹 Coffee with a Kick – Unlike traditional coffee drinks, Irish Coffee includes a measure of smooth Irish whiskey, adding a gentle warmth and depth of flavor.
🔹 Topped with Lightly Whipped Cream – Instead of milk or steamed foam, Irish Coffee is finished with a layer of rich, yet airy whipped cream, allowing you to sip the coffee through the cream for a silky, indulgent experience.
🔹 A Classic Irish Tradition – First served at Foynes Airport in Ireland, this cocktail has since become a worldwide favorite for those who love coffee and whiskey in perfect harmony.
How to Make Irish Coffee
☕ Ingredients
- 6 oz (180ml) hot brewed coffee
- 1½ oz (45ml) Irish whiskey
- 1 tbsp (15g) brown sugar
- Lightly whipped heavy cream (for topping)
🌡 Temperature Guide
- Coffee: Hot, freshly brewed
- Cream: Lightly whipped, not fully stiff
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
1️⃣ Brew a Strong Cup of Coffee
- Prepare 6 oz (180ml) of freshly brewed coffee (drip or French press).
2️⃣ Preheat Your Glass (Optional but Recommended)
- Pour hot water into your glass, let it sit for a minute, then discard the water.
- This keeps the Irish Coffee warm for longer.
3️⃣ Mix the Coffee, Sugar, & Whiskey
- Stir 1 tbsp (15g) of brown sugar into the hot coffee until dissolved.
- Add 1½ oz (45ml) of Irish whiskey and stir gently.
4️⃣ Breathe It In
- ☕ Breathe it in. The deep aroma of whiskey-laced coffee is an invitation to awaken—not just the body, but the soul. That’s why we encourage you to take that extra second or two to pause and enjoy your coffee before drinking by smelling it and thinking, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
5️⃣ Float the Whipped Cream on Top
- Lightly whip heavy cream until it’s just thickened but still pourable.
- Slowly pour it over the back of a spoon onto the coffee, allowing it to float on top.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
- Drink the coffee through the layer of cream, without stirring, for the perfect Irish Coffee experience.
Irish Coffee vs. Other Coffee Drinks
✔ Irish Coffee vs. Baileys Coffee: Irish Coffee is made with whiskey and sugar, while Baileys Coffee includes Baileys Irish Cream instead of whiskey.
✔ Irish Coffee vs. Vienna Coffee: Vienna Coffee is espresso topped with whipped cream, while Irish Coffee contains whiskey and brewed coffee.
✔ Irish Coffee vs. Mocha: A mocha contains chocolate and milk, while Irish Coffee is a boozy, cream-topped coffee cocktail.
Why Choose Irish Coffee?
- For a Warm, Satisfying Coffee Cocktail – Irish Coffee is rich, smooth, and perfect for cozy evenings.
- A Classic After-Dinner Indulgence – Often served as a digestif, this drink is ideal for winding down after a meal.
- An Iconic Taste of Ireland – Whether you have Irish roots or just love classic whiskey-based drinks, Irish Coffee is a must-try favorite.
☕ Next Up: Baileys Coffee – A Creamy, Whiskey-Infused Delight 🍶☕
