Irish Coffee
Oozing with rich whiskey and velvety cream, this Irish coffee recipe will warm your soul—discover the secret to the perfect balance.
Total time
10 min
Servings
1
Calories
127.6
Category
Drinks
Warm up on a chilly evening or celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style with this classic Irish Coffee. Combining strong black coffee, smooth Irish whiskey, and a float of lightly whipped cream, this cocktail is a cozy, low-carb indulgence ready in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Makes 1 serving
- 1 sugar
- 1 1/2 black coffee
- 5 heavy cream
Method
Rinse a stemmed glass with hot water.
Put the sugar in the glass, followed by whiskey.
Add coffee, leaving room for the cream.
Stir thoroughly and let settle, before pouring the cream on top over the back of a spoon so it just floats.
Cook's notes
- Use freshly brewed, strong black coffee for the best flavor.
- Chill the heavy cream slightly before pouring for a thicker, more stable float.
- Glassware matters: a warmed stemmed glass helps maintain the drink's temperature.
Easy swaps
- Instead of sugar, use brown sugar or a sugar substitute (like stevia) for a lower-carb option
- Instead of whiskey, use bourbon or rye whiskey for a different flavor profile
- Instead of heavy cream, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version
Frequently asked
Can I make Irish Coffee without alcohol?
Yes, simply omit the whiskey and add a splash of vanilla extract or Irish cream syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
Why does the cream need to be poured over a spoon?
Pouring over the back of a spoon slows the cream's fall, allowing it to float on top of the coffee instead of mixing in. This creates the signature layered look.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, as written it is very low in carbs. For strict keto, use a zero-calorie sweetener instead of sugar.
