Brandy Coffee With Amaretto And Creme De Cafe

Pro tips

• Warm your glass or mug with hot water before pouring to keep the drink hot longer.
• Stir sugar into hot coffee first to dissolve completely, then add spirits to avoid grittiness.
• Use freshly brewed hot coffee, not reheated or lukewarm coffee, for best flavor and mouthfeel.
• Pour liqueurs slowly over the back of a bar spoon for a layered effect if desired.

Substitutions

• Crème de café → Kahlúa or other coffee liqueur (similar sweetness and coffee flavor)
• Amaretto → almond extract (1/4 tsp in hot coffee, reduces sweetness slightly)
• Brandy → cognac or bourbon (cognac is smoother; bourbon adds spice)

Equipment

heatproof glass or mug · bar spoon (optional, for layering)

Can I make this drink without brandy?

Yes. Omit the brandy or replace it with cognac, bourbon, or increase the crème de café to 3/4 oz for a non-brandy version.

What type of coffee works best?

Use freshly brewed hot coffee (any roast). Stronger coffee balances the sweetness of the liqueurs better than weak coffee.

Can I make this ahead?

No. Pour and serve immediately after mixing. The drink is meant to be consumed hot.

Is this drink very sweet?

Yes. Both amaretto and crème de café are sweet liqueurs. Reduce sugar to 1/2 tbsp if you prefer less sweetness.

What glassware should I use?

Serve in a heatproof glass, mug, or Irish coffee glass to safely hold hot liquid.