The Fancy Irish Coffee

The standard Irish Coffee is more than enough in regards to being a solid drink and on a cold and wet day – it might just be required.

However, the Irish Coffee has become such a ubiquitous cocktail being offered at every bar from the lowliest of college bars to the classiest hotel bar. When creating cocktails for Irish Bars I found myself and my clients wanting something more than the typical Irish Coffee so I created a fancy version.

This is Irish Coffee is for the serious Irish Pub or an ambitious host. Perhaps your St. Patrick’s Day gathering is need of a statement? This might just be the cocktail for you.

Building the Fancy Irish Coffee

1. Irish Stout Syrup – You need one pint of Irish Stout (such as Guinness) and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Bring the Guinness to a low boil and simmer until the liquid has been reduced by 1/3. Remove from the heat and stir in the sugar until it’s dissolved. Allow to cool and store in an air-tight container.

2. Irish Whipped Cream – Start with 1 cup of whipping cream and 1.5 ounces of Irish Cream Liqueur. Whip until it comes together and gains volume but don’t over-whip.

Have a pot of fresh, hot coffee at the ready. In a stemmed coffee glass or mug add 1.5 ounces of Irish Whiskey, 1 ounce of Irish Stout Syrup, hot coffee, and top with a couple of tablespoons of Irish Whipped Cream. If you are still feeling ambitious shave some dark chocolate atop the cream. You have now made a Fancy Irish Coffee!

Enjoy!