Irish Coffee

Pro tips

• Warm the glass with hot water before adding coffee—this prevents thermal shock and keeps the drink hotter longer.
• Pour whiskey and sugar into the warm glass first, stir until sugar dissolves, then top with hot coffee. This order ensures even sweetness distribution.
• Chill the whipping cream beforehand and whip to soft peaks (not stiff)—it should float and pour slightly rather than sit as a dense cap.
• Use 1 oz whiskey as a baseline; adjust to taste preference. The drink should taste like coffee with a whiskey note, not whiskey with coffee.

Substitutions

• Irish whiskey → Scotch whisky or bourbon (changes flavor profile but maintains structure)
• Brown sugar → white sugar or honey (white sugar is neutral; honey adds caramel notes)
• Whipped cream → Irish cream liqueur like Baileys (richer, no whipping required)

Storage & make-ahead

Irish coffee is best consumed immediately after preparation. Pre-made coffee can be stored in a thermos for up to 2 hours; add fresh whipped cream just before serving.

Equipment

whipped cream dispenser or whisk for whipping cream

What type of Irish whiskey works best for Irish coffee?

Use a smooth, blended Irish whiskey like Jameson or Bushmills. Avoid heavily peated whiskeys which overpower the coffee.

Why does the whipped cream sit on top instead of mixing in?

Cold cream floats atop hot coffee due to density difference. Drink through the cream layer for temperature contrast—a defining part of the experience.

Can I make Irish coffee without alcohol?

Yes, replace the whiskey with an equal measure of coffee liqueur, Irish cream liqueur, or omit it entirely for black coffee with sugar and cream.

How strong should the coffee be?

Use freshly brewed strong coffee (not espresso). Medium-dark roasts work best to stand up to the whiskey and sweetness.

Should the whipped cream be sweetened?

Traditionally lightly sweetened or unsweetened whipped cream is used. Avoid overly sweet cream which competes with the sugar already in the drink.