3 Killer Coffee Cocktails
Bean Juice. Bean Juice. Bean Juice.
So, you love coffee. That much is clear. From espresso to lattes, cappuccinos,
mochas, and not to leave out the tried and true (minimalistic) black coffee
preparation. The popular brewed beverage truly is both delicious and functional.
Right?
If you agree, you aren’t alone. Not in the slightest. To ballpark the worldwide
statistic, billions of cups containing the esteemed bean water are consumed
daily. That’s right… daily.
As a casual drinker, your consumption may be strictly social or dependent
upon whether the ever iconic Pumpkin Spice is in season. Or, as a light sipper,
you may enjoy swinging by your local bikini coffee shop — possibly indulging in a
sweet thai coffee along with a bit of spicy Panang Curry.
For others, coffee is considered requisite (a lifeblood, of sorts). And luckily, for
you particular folks whom of which use coffee to fuel your day-to-day, there are
also options to keep the proverbial ball at a constant roll. More specifically?
Your choices of caffeination may involve a trusty drip-coffee machine
constantly serving it up fresh. Adversely, you’re an espresso shot connoisseur;
you get by with scalding hot doses by the ounce or two, perhaps with a slice of
lemon peel. Additionally, you could identify as an instant coffee fan (time and
money may be in short supply — or you really prefer the convenience of the onestep
process). No matter…
The arrays of coffee patrons are great in diversity. That said, what seems
overwhelmingly obvious, is you all find value in the subtle buzz and boost in
productivity. And why not?
Coffee is a tremendous tool. The history is rich and expansive. It has proven
to aid us confidently through deadlines, impossibly long drives and in some ways
has lent a hand in the construction of the world we know today. Wow!
While all these benefits can be positive and desired, maybe you want to enjoy
the at-hand favorite in new, exciting ways. No matter what type of coffee follower
you might be, you may seek fresh opportunities to explore. Enter. Spirits.
At the appropriate age, coffee can begin to take on novel forms. With proper
care, one may craft this iconic beverage into cocktails which further exemplify the
true elasticity of coffee’s ability. The addition of certain ingredients and know-how
to build different recipes can completely shift the notion what coffee can be. Here
are a few…
Add an Extra Kick
Irish Coffee is the gold standard of the caffeine/alcohol hybrids. It is
mouthwatering, doubly warming and may take on various forms. Let’s get into it.
This gem calls for hot, filtered coffee. Press, percolate or start the drip. Once
the brewing is complete, the remainder of the steps are determined by personal
taste and preference. To elaborate, the ratios may be tuned to emphasize
sweetness, booziness and creaminess. Now, to dial it in…
In a sturdy glass or mug (which will withstand the high temperatures,) use hot
water to charge. The objective is a warming of the vessel; thereby, avoiding any
chilling of the beverage when poured. After the mug is sufficiently tempered, you
may empty it of the charging water. Moving on to the good stuff!
Start by adding your favorite whiskey. Traditionally, the ‘Irish Coffee’, calls for
Jameson Irish Whiskey. But, you are welcome (of course) to spike with any
whiskey of your choosing. As a side note, bourbon will be a bit sweeter, scotch —
smoky, rye — spicy and the (namesake) Irish whiskey will pique caramel notes
(making it exceptional for this concoction.)
Now that your whiskey has made its way in to your cup, sweetening is next.
This may be done in a variety of ways: granulated sugar, a sugar syrup or using
artificial sweetener. Onward!
The last step is the cream. And uniform with the previous portions of the
recipe, this is also subjective. Your options are as follows: a basic cream (dairy or
otherwise), whipped cream or some like to toss in some Irish Cream Liqueur.
Take your pick. It is also acceptable to choose all three and tune each amount to
taste.
Keep it Classy
Up next is a big-time crowd pleaser. The Espresso Martini. Served up in a
martini glass (chilled, for maximum presentation). To bring this elegant creation
into view, only three humble ingredients are required.
The first is vodka. There are lots to choose from, but you will do well to
remember (vodka is effectively colorless and odorless.) Onto number two…
As is in the title of the martini — espresso is of utmost importance. A freshly
pulled shot or two will do wonders to liven up the drink (bringing some
sweetness, while avoiding an overly bitter result.) Time for number three…
Coffee liqueur will serve as the sweet element in this tasteful blend. There are
several wonderful options to choose from. So seek out the one which will please
your palette and you will not be disappointed. And bringing them together…
Shake the three components with ice, then fine strain them into your (prechilled)
martini glass. And that’s it! Spritz the oil of a lemon twist over top, if you
go for that and enjoy!
Redefine the Paradigm
Last on the list: Patriota.
Introducing an advanced selection, in tribute to Emilio Bacardi Moreau, Laura
Marnich brought us this lovely hit. Thanks Laura!
Here we have a riff on the Cafecito Cubano. This addition to your rolodex is
truly essential. As for what's in it?
A light rum lays a firm foundation for its partner ingredients. To accent, a
coupling of Fernet Branca Menta and chocolate cream liqueur boldly set the
stage. This marriage is boozy, herbaceous, refreshing and lavish. Not to leave out...
Our star of the show is espresso, plus sugar for balance. As usual, the proper
shot of espresso will highlight the amazing characteristics of coffee. And in this
drink, those highlights are absolutely sublime.
Closing
Diffordsguide.com can be visited for all specifications (regarding these
cocktails.) Please, enjoy responsibly and often!