Classic Irish Coffee Recipe

Irish coffee is one of those drinks that doesn’t just wake you up—it welcomes you in. It’s cozy, comforting, and carries just the right edge of indulgence. Coffee, cream, a splash of Irish whiskey—it’s like your morning pick-me-up met your nightcap and they decided to team up.

It’s the kind of drink that makes slow mornings feel like a treat and chilly evenings feel a little warmer. That deep, rich coffee layered with silky cream and the mellow bite of whiskey? Yeah, it’s a whole vibe. Add a little sugar to round it out, and you’ve got a perfect balance—bold, smooth, and just sweet enough.

And the story? Straight-up iconic. Chef Joe Sheridan whipped up the first Irish coffee back in 1943 at the Foynes Flying Boat terminal in Ireland, serving it to weary travelers off a cold flight. When they asked if it was Brazilian coffee, legend says he replied, “No, that’s Irish coffee.” And just like that, a classic was born. You can even check out the full scene at the Flying Boat Museum in Foynes if you’re ever in the neighborhood.

Whether you’re posted up by the fire, winding down from a long day, or adding a little flair to your brunch table—Irish coffee knows how to elevate the moment.

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The Perfect Irish Coffee for Any Occasion

This classic Irish coffee is a harmonious mix of robust coffee and smooth Irish whiskey, topped with a layer of rich cream. The sweetness of the sugar balances the bitterness of the coffee, making it a well-rounded and satisfying drink that warms you from the inside out.

Perfect as an after dinner treat.

Ingredients

• 1 Cup freshly brewed hot coffee
• 1 1/2 ounces Irish whiskey
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
• Heavy cream, lightly whipped (for topping)
• Coffee beans, chocolate shavings or powdered chocolate (for garnish, optional)

Zero-Proof Irish Whiskey: Replace the Irish whiskey with a non-alcoholic whiskey for a non-alcoholic version.

Instructions

1. Brew the Coffee: Prepare a cup of strong, hot coffee using your preferred method.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a pre-warmed glass, combine the hot coffee with the Irish whiskey and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Top with Cream: Carefully float the lightly whipped cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon, creating a beautiful layer. Alternatively use whipped cream from can.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with coffee beans, chocolate shavings or powdered chocolate if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 1 serving
• Calories: 538kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 74g

To pin for later:

Fancy some other warm cocktails like the Irish Coffee? Why not try a toasted coconut hot chocolate, a salted caramel and rum hot chocolate, or a clementine mulled whisky?

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Yield: 1

Classic Irish Coffee

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Warm up with the rich, cozy flavors of a classic Irish Coffee! Made with smooth Irish whiskey, hot coffee, sugar and a dollop of lightly whipped cream.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 Cup freshly brewed hot coffee
• 45 ml Irish whiskey
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
• Heavy cream, lightly whipped (for topping)
• Coffee beans, chocolate shavings or powdered chocolate (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Brew the Coffee: Prepare a cup of strong, hot coffee using your preferred method.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a pre-warmed glass, combine the hot coffee with the Irish whiskey and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Top with Cream: Carefully float the lightly whipped cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon, creating a beautiful layer. Alternatively use whipped cream from can.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with coffee beans, chocolate shavings or powdered chocolate if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Zero-Proof Irish Whiskey: Replace the Irish whiskey with a non-alcoholic whiskey for a non-alcoholic version.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

1

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 538Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 903mgCarbohydrates: 74gFiber: 11gSugar: 39gProtein: 15g

This nutrition information was automatically calculated by Nutritionix, but may not be 100% accurate.