It’s St Patrick’s Day and we thought we’d help you celebrate with a classic recipe for the iconic cocktail, Irish Coffee.  It’s easy to make and only requires four common ingredients.  It combines a smooth Irish whisky (a Scotch whisky will also do, but just don’t tell anyone!) with rich black coffee that's sweetened and topped with cream.

Despite some common shortcuts, authentic Irish Coffee is not as simple as spiking coffee with a shot of whisky. Instead, this is a well-planned and carefully constructed coffee drink that should be mixed with the care of any latte or cappuccino. That said, it is very quick and easy to make.

Choose a great Irish whisky combined with your favourite Spiller & Tait coffee and follow our recipe to discover why this classic is considered one of the best cocktails of all time. Perfect for a chilly evening, as well as making an excellent after-dinner drink to share with everyone you know when we are allowed to gather again.

Ingredients (1 serving):

1 to 2 teaspoons ​brown sugar (to taste)

110 ml of Spiller & Tait coffee (strong, rich, hot)

40 ml of ​Irish whisky (we like Jameson, but any whiskey you have to hand will work well)

30 ml of double cream (lightly whipped)

Method:

1. Place the brown sugar into a pre-warmed coffee glass, mug, or other heatproof glass.
   
   
2. Add the black coffee, ideally cafetière, filter, or Americano from espresso, then the Irish whisky.

3. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

4. Float the lightly whipped double cream on top by slowly pouring it over the back of a spoon.

5. Do not stir. Instead, drink the Irish Coffee through the cream and enjoy!

Top Tips:

Start with a great cup of coffee. 
You’re already there if you are using Spiller & Tait coffee.  Medium to dark-roasted coffees are best either made in cafetière, filter or as an Americano.

Don't forget to preheat your glass.
It keeps the drink warm and helps mix the ingredients. While the coffee is brewing, pour hot water into the glass, then discard it before starting to create the drink.

Use freshly whipped cream.
Avoid pressurised cans of cream, or whipped topping, as these will ruin the Irish Coffee flavour. Instead, begin with a double cream and vigorously whip it with a whisk or fork until it is light and fluffy.

For something different. 
Either replace the sugar with maple syrup, or substitute the whisky with an Irish Cream (like Bailey’s) for an extra creamy drink. 

Let us know how you get on with your Irish Coffee in the comments below.