Irish coffee is a cozy and spirited beverage that blends hot coffee, smooth Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and a rich layer of cream. It’s the perfect drink for chilly evenings, festive gatherings, or whenever you want to elevate your coffee break with a touch of indulgence. Known for its warming effect and balanced flavors, Irish coffee is both a comforting treat and a timeless after-dinner favorite.
The drink dates back to the 1940s in Ireland, where it was first served to weary travelers at Foynes Port, an air terminal near Limerick. Chef Joe Sheridan famously added Irish whiskey to coffee to warm up passengers on a cold night, and the result was an instant hit. Its popularity spread internationally, especially after being introduced in San Francisco at the Buena Vista Café, which still serves its iconic version to this day.
The beauty of this coffee lies in its simplicity. The strong, freshly brewed coffee provides the foundation, while the whiskey adds warmth and depth. Brown sugar gives it a subtle sweetness that complements the bitter coffee, and the cream, lightly whipped but still pourable, floats on top, creating a smooth contrast in both texture and temperature.
The proper way to enjoy this special coffee is to sip it through the layer of cream without stirring. This way, each mouthful delivers the bold richness of the coffee and whiskey followed by the cool, silky cream. It’s a luxurious experience, despite requiring only a few ingredients.
Irish coffee is perfect for serving after a meal, during winter holidays, or as a cozy weekend treat. Whether made at home or ordered in a classic pub, this drink continues to be a beloved symbol of Irish hospitality, great aromatic taste, and flavor. And it’s easy to prepare homemade coffee with Irish cream at home.
Ingredients
- 3 oz freshly brewed hot coffee Use your favorite coffee for best taste.
- 1 1/2 oz Irish whiskey Jameson is a popular choice.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar Adjust to taste.
- 1 oz heavy cream Lightly whipped, not too thick.
Instructions
- Preheat a glass mug by filling it with hot water, then pour out the water.
- Add the brown sugar to the glass. Pour the hot coffee into the glass, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
- Stir in the Irish whiskey.
- Gently pour the lightly whipped cream over the back of a spoon onto the top of the coffee, creating a cream layer.
- Serve hot without stirring, allowing the coffee to be sipped through the cream.
I don’t get what all the fuss is about. This coffee just tasted like whiskey to me. Disappointing!
Wow, this is so good. I added a dash of nutmeg on top and it was divine! 😍
This is the best Irish Coffee recipe I’ve tried! So smooth and creamy. Perfect for a chilly evening.
Had no heavy cream so I used milk instead. Still turned out great, lol! Just a little less fancy I guess.
Why do people put cream on coffee anyway? Seems silly.
I don’t get it either. Coffee’s good on its own! Why mess it up with cream?
Cream adds a richness, man! It balances the bitter coffee. Try it before you knock it!
I tried this recipe, but my cream didn’t float. What’s wrong with me? 😩
I know how you feel! I once tried to make it and the cream sank too. It’s gotta be just right, I guess.
Don’t worry! It happens to the best of us. Maybe your cream was too thick? Just whip it less next time!
I tried making this but it turned out weird… my cream just sank. What did I do wrong?
How do you not stir it? That just seems wrong…
Delicious!
Really? I tried it and it was too strong for me. Maybe I’m not a coffee person.
I love it too! Perfect for chilly nights.
Nice drink. I like coffee and whiskey! Good mix.
Is it really necessary to preheat the glass? Seems like a lot of fuss for coffee.
Um, can you use any coffee? I only have decaf at home. Will it still taste good?
I skipped the sugar and it was still awesome! Gonna make this for St. Patrick’s Day.
Yum! Just made this for my friends and they loved it! 👌❤️
My great grandma used to make this! Brings back memories. Thank you for sharing! ❤️
I thought this was gonna be way too sweet! Added less sugar and it was just right.
I was worried about the sweetness too! Glad to see I’m not the only one who adjusted it. Definitely a keeper recipe!
This is the perfect way to start a Sunday morning! Love it!
Irish coffee? I thought that was just coffee with a splash of whiskey. Guess I was wrong!
I don’t like whiskey, can I use rum instead? Asking for a friend.
I dunno, my whiskey was stronger than the coffee. Didn’t taste right to me. 🙁
So easy to make, and I love how it warms you up! 😍🥃☕️
Coffee, whiskey, and heavy cream? Sounds unhealthy, but I can’t resist it!
This Irish coffee is just perfect! The whiskey gives it such a nice kick. Totally my go-to now!
Just a drink with coffee and whiskey? Seems too simple. Not convinced yet.
This is the best Irish coffee I’ve ever made! The cream on top is perfection.
Irish coffee should have butter instead of cream!!! Just sayin’ 🤷♂️
Yum! I used Baileys instead of whiskey because I had it on hand. Still tastes awesome!