Irish coffee is a boozy hot coffee drink layered with whiskey, sugar, and whipped cream that's best served immediately while the coffee is hot and the cream is cold. The contrast between warm and cold components makes it a classic after-dinner cocktail.
Check what you already have. We'll leave it off your shopping list.
CookOS may earn a commission from Instacart orders.
Prices vary by store
*Service fees apply. Instacart® and the Instacart logo are registered trademarks of Maplebear Inc. d/b/a Instacart.
Into a stemmed glass or cup rimmed with sugar, pour Irish Whisky.
Fill to within 1/2 inch of top with coffee.
Cover surface to brim with chilled whipped cream.
cocktail jigger or shot glass (to measure whiskey) · bar spoon or long-handled spoon (for layering cream and stirring)
Use a smooth blended Irish whiskey like Jameson or Bushmills. Avoid high-proof or heavily peated whiskeys that overpower the coffee.
Pour the whipped cream slowly over the back of a bar spoon held just above the coffee surface. The cream floats on the hot liquid if poured gently.
No—assemble it immediately before serving. The coffee must be hot and the cream cold for the proper texture and temperature contrast.
The classic ratio is 1.5 oz whiskey to 4–6 oz hot black coffee, adjusted to taste preference.
Yes, instant coffee works in a pinch, but freshly brewed strong black coffee delivers better flavor and aroma.
