How to Enjoy Coffee Liquor in Cocktails

Coffee and alcohol are two of many adults’ favorite drinks, and combining them creates a delicious liqueur. There are a few ways to enjoy this popular drink, including sipping it on the rocks or mixing it in cocktails.

There are numerous choices when it comes to this spirit, from well-known brands like Kahlua and Bailey’s to craft options made by smaller distilleries. Some are infused with coffee while others add more flavorings, such as vanilla beans or botanicals, to produce a variety of tastes. The lower proof of these spirits makes them perfect for mixing in cocktails or sipping neat.

The most common cocktails that incorporate coffee liqueur include the White Russian and the Black Russian, which mix vodka with cream and coffee liqueur respectively. The liqueur can also be added to desserts, such as tiramisu or coffee ice cream. The best coffee liqueur is one that balances notes of sweetness with earthy, roasted coffee flavors. A great option for this is Firelit, a small-batch liqueur that combines a blend of roasted coffee from DC’s Don Ciccio and Figli with brandy. This liqueur may be difficult to find, but it is worth the search.

Another good choice is St George NOLA, which was created to highlight the nutty complexity of New Orleans coffees that St. George’s owner Dave Smith and his wife enjoyed together. The resulting spirit is less sweet than other similar liqueurs and stands up well in non-dessert cocktails, as well as in the classic Espresso Martini.