We all know how much fun it is to sip on a cool, classy cocktail on a hot summer day. However, when the temperatures drop and the winter chill begins to set in, nothing seems quite so comforting as cradling a warm cup of goodness in your hands. That’s why the art of making a warming coffee cocktail has become increasingly popular over the past few years. By combining the deep, roasted flavors of your favorite coffee brew with the soothing warmth of a liquor, you will find the perfect balance between warm comfort and a strong kick.
Here’s a guide to help you explore the world of warm coffee-infused cocktails this winter. We’ll go beyond the traditional chilled serving style of the popular Espresso Martini, and take a look at many other options that provide an even cozier twist to the season.
Warm Coffee Classics
For many decades, people have been discovering creative and delicious ways to pair coffee and liquor together. Each one of these warm coffee classics has been able to stand the test of time for a reason.
Irish Coffee
This is probably the most well-known of the warm coffee cocktails. First created in the 1940s to warm up cold passengers who were traveling, this drink is a perfect combination of warm coffee, Irish Whiskey, and sugar, finished off with a layer of cold, thickened cream. What makes it magical is when you’re drinking the hot, spirited coffee through the cool cream – no need to stir!
Spanish Calimero (Café Bombardino Style)
Unlike the Italian Bombardino that is typically based upon eggs like in eggnog, many variations throughout Spain and Europe incorporate espresso into their bombardinos and/or brandy or advocaat (a rich liqueur). A “Calimero” generally includes warm coffee with egg liqueur and brandy, topped with whipped cream. Essentially, it is a warm, caffeinated dessert in a glass that is perfect for après-ski or a quiet, snowy night by the fireplace.
Catalan Cremat
From Catalonia comes this fiery display of warm coffee cocktail. In a traditional clay pot, Cremat is made using rum, coffee beans, sugar, lemon peel and cinnamon. To caramelize the flavors, the mixture is then set ablaze to burn off some of the alcohol, followed by adding brewed coffee to the mixture. It is both aromatic and complex, and provides a very warming sensation.
Warm Coffee Modern Twists
If you’d like to try something new, these modern versions offer unique flavors for you to put in your mug.
Espresso Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is a legend for being a remedy for the winter blues. Usually made with whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water, you can make this drink better by substituting some of the hot water with a shot of hot espresso. The coffee gives a roasted earthiness that complements the lemon’s brightness and the honey’s sweetness perfectly.
Coffee Old Fashioned
Generally, the Old Fashioned is served over ice, but this can also be done during the winter months. Simply swap out the water for a shot of coffee or coffee syrup when making the Old Fashioned with a high quality bourbon, a dash of orange bitters, and a pinch of sweetener. This allows you to savor the slow sipping experience of the vanilla notes in the bourbon and the chocolate notes in the coffee.
Tips for Balancing Warmth and Flavors
Choose Your Liquor Wisely: Spirits such as dark whiskey, rum, and brandy complement the flavors of coffee well because they have similar notes such as toasted, caramel, and vanilla.
Use More Than Just White Sugar: Winter palettes tend to prefer richer flavors, so do not be afraid to add brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey to your drink. These add more complexity to your drink compared to using just white sugar.
Commonly Asked Questions
Are warm coffee cocktails considered after-dinner drinks?
Yes. Both coffee and spirits aid in digestion. So, these warm coffee cocktails are great for ending a heavy winter dinner.
Can I make my own low-alcohol version?
Yes. You can either decrease the amount of spirit you use, or substitute with low ABV liqueurs such as Amaro or Irish Cream to give your drink a lighter feel while still enjoying the warmth.
Need a coffee cocktail that doesn’t require much prep? Sometimes you may want the taste without the hassle. If you’re looking for a premium, pre-made option that offers the same quality as what you would get if you went to a bar, try DrinkThat’s bottled Espresso Martini. Just shake it, pour it and you’ve got a bar-quality drink in under a minute. Find a store near you today.
