Go Back
–+ servings
A classic Irish Coffee in a clear handled mug with hot coffee, whiskey, and a thick cream topping.

Classic Irish Coffee

No ratings yet
A warm Irish Coffee made with strong hot coffee, Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and softly whipped cream.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 drinks
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Irish
Calories: 255
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
 
 

Coffee Base
  • 2 cups strong hot coffee freshly brewed
  • 1/4 cup Irish whiskey
  • 2 tbsp light brown sugar packed
Cream Topping
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream cold
  • 1 tsp powdered sugar optional
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg optional garnish

Equipment

  • Two heatproof glass mugs
  • Small saucepan
  • Hand mixer or whisk
  • Spoon
  • Coffee maker

Method
 

Whip the cream:
  1. Whip the cold cream with the powdered sugar, if using, until it reaches soft peaks. Keep it chilled while you make the coffee.
Build the coffee:
  1. Warm two heatproof glass mugs with hot water, then discard the water.
  2. Divide the brown sugar between the mugs and pour in the hot coffee. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Add the Irish whiskey and stir once more.
Float the cream:
  1. Hold a spoon just above the coffee surface, rounded side up. Slowly pour or spoon the cream over the back of the spoon so it floats on top.
  2. Finish with a light dusting of nutmeg if desired and serve without stirring.

Nutrition

Calories: 255kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 1gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 10mgSugar: 18g

Notes

  • Softly whipped cream floats more cleanly than stiff whipped cream.
  • Do not stir after adding the cream; sip the hot coffee through the cool topping.
  • Warm the mugs first so the coffee stays hot while you assemble the drink.