Coffee Cocktail Recipe
Coffee Cocktail Nutrition Facts
Calories:250
Fat:5g
Protein:6g
Carbohydrates:12g
Alcohol:15%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Coffee Cocktail is a classic cocktail that dates back to the 19th century. It was first published in Jerry Thomas' 1862 book, 'How to Mix Drinks or The Bon Vivant's Companion'. Despite its name, the Coffee Cocktail does not contain any coffee. The name is derived from its rich, dark color which resembles a cup of black coffee. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a smooth and velvety drink with a hint of sweetness.
How Coffee Cocktail Tastes?
The Coffee Cocktail has a rich, velvety texture with a subtle sweetness and a hint of fruity notes from the port wine. The cognac adds warmth and depth to the flavor, while the egg gives it a creamy, frothy consistency.
Interesting facts about Coffee Cocktail
- The Coffee Cocktail does not contain any coffee, but its name comes from its dark, coffee-like color.
- It was first published in Jerry Thomas' 1862 book, 'How to Mix Drinks or The Bon Vivant's Companion'.
- The cocktail is often served as an after-dinner drink due to its rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients
Cognac
Cognac gives a deep, rich flavor and warm, spicy notes that form the backbone of the Coffee Cocktail. A 1.5 oz measure is just right – too much and it might overpower the drink, too little and you’ll lose that warming embrace. Forget the cognac, and you’ll be missing the soul of the drink. An alternative could be brandy, which would offer a different twist but retain the warmth.
Mary Mitkina
Port Wine
Port balances out the cognac with its sweetness and fruity full-body. It’s integral to the cocktail's character providing a contrasting yet complementary note. Similarly, too much would make the drink cloying, too little and it would be too sharp. Miss it out? The drink will not only lose its signature sweetness but would also lack body and depth.
Emma Rose
Simple Syrup
The glue holding everything together is the simple syrup. It smooths over any discrepancies between the cognac and the port. Half an ounce ensures it doesn’t become overly sweet. Leave it out and the drink may become too strong; pump up the volume and your drink might resemble a dessert.
Alex Green
Egg
The egg is essential for the luxurious texture you’re after in a cocktail like this. It must be one whole egg – only the white, and it's more of a fizz, only the yolk, and it's a thicker, richer affair. Skipping the egg is a no-go unless you fancy a completely different drink that lacks the creamy mouthfeel.
Mary Mitkina
Grated Nut (Nutmeg)
A pinch of nutmeg on top takes the aromatics to the next level, providing a spicy nose that complements the drink marvelously. Without it, the cocktail’s sensory experience will be lacking. It’s the pièce de résistance, the final touch that elevates it from good to great.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make Coffee Cocktail Drink
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the following ingredients:
- 1.5 oz cognac
- 1.5 oz port wine
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 1 whole egg
- Dry shake (without ice) for about 10 seconds to emulsify the egg.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for another 10-15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a pinch of grated nutmeg on top.
Pro Tips
- Shake the cocktail well to ensure the egg is fully emulsified, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
- Use a freshly grated nutmeg for the garnish to enhance the aroma and flavor.
- Chill the glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold for longer.
Perfect Pairings
Coffee Cocktail Pairings
Desserts:
- Chocolate Fondant - The richness of the cognac and the sweetness of the port wine harmonize beautifully with the decadent chocolate.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream - A classic pairing, the vanilla complements the cocktail's complex flavors.
Cheese:
- Blue Cheese - The strong flavor of blue cheese can stand up to the boldness of the Coffee Cocktail.
Meats:
- Duck Breast with a Port Reduction - Echoes the port wine in the cocktail, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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What you could change in Coffee Cocktail
- Cognac: Can be substituted with any other brandy.
- Port Wine: A sweet red wine can be used as a substitute.
- Simple Syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be used as natural sweeteners.
- Egg: For a vegan option, aquafaba (chickpea water) can be used as a substitute.
Explore all drinks starting with C here
And of course - twists🍹
Espresso Coffee Cocktail
For a coffee kick, add 0.5 oz of espresso. Expect a caffeine buzz coupled with the original flavors, giving you a delightful twist with a real coffee note.
Ingredients & Recipe:
- Add 0.5 oz of fresh espresso to the original ingredients.
- Follow the same steps for preparation.
Chocolate Coffee Cocktail
Cater to your inner chocoholic by adding 0.5 oz of chocolate syrup. This will bring a sweet chocolatey twist that complements the nutmeg brilliantly. It's dessert in a glass!
Ingredients & Recipe:
- Include 0.5 oz of chocolate syrup with the original ingredients.
- Follow the standard steps of preparation.
Spicy Coffee Cocktail
Spice it up by adding a dash of cinnamon or chili powder for a warm kick. It’ll add a spicy layer that dances well with the cognac’s innate spice.
Ingredients & Recipe:
- Add a small pinch of cinnamon or chili powder.
- Shake well with the other ingredients.
In case you forgot basics how to make Coffee Cocktail
The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.
Learn everything about simple syrupAdd your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Coffee Cocktail
Can I drink the Coffee cocktail if I don't consume alcohol?
You can prepare an non-alcoholic version of the cocktail by substituting the cognac with non-alcoholic brandy and the port wine with grape juice.
What is the best time to consume the Coffee cocktail?
The Coffee cocktail is best enjoyed during the evening or at night due to its warmth and richness, making it perfect for dinner parties or relaxing nights in.
What type of glassware should I use for the Coffee cocktail?
Traditionally, the Coffee cocktail is served in a coupe or martini glass, though you can use any glassware you prefer according to your personal taste and style.
Is the egg in the Coffee cocktail cooked?
No, the egg in the Coffee cocktail is not cooked. The beating process however does make it less likely that bacteria is present. Always make sure to use fresh eggs, and if you're worried, there are egg substitutes available.
What is the origin of Cognac?
Cognac is a variety of brandy named after the town of Cognac in France. It's produced in the wine-growing region surrounding the town.
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