HOW TO MAKE AN
IRISH COFFEE AT HOME
Learn how to make an authentic Irish Coffee at home.
An Irish “Creme” Coffee is a timeless cocktail that combines rich coffee, smooth Irish whiskey, and lightly whipped cream for a warming and indulgent drink. Whether you’re enjoying a cold evening or celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, this hot Irish Coffee recipe is sure to be a toasty treat.
TRADITIONAL IRISH COFFEE RECIPE
IRISH COFFEE INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee (medium to dark roast)
- 1 ½ oz Irish whiskey such as Jameson, Baileys, etc
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (or sugar of choice)
- Heavy cream (for creamy topping; lightly whipped)
- Ground nutmeg or chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
RECIPE
BREW THE COFFEE
Prepare a fresh cup of hot coffee using your preferred brewing method.
SWEETEN THE COFFEE
Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the coffee and stir until fully dissolved.
ADD THE WHISKEY
Pour 1 ½ oz of Irish whiskey* into the sweetened coffee and stir gently.
PREPARE THE CREAM
Lightly whip the heavy cream until thick but still pourable.
ASSEMBLE THE IRISH COFFEE
Slowly pour the whipped cream over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the coffee.
GARNISH & SERVE
Sprinkle with nutmeg or chocolate shavings for an extra touch. Enjoy your Irish Coffee!
HOW TO MAKE CREAM FOR IRISH COFFEE
- Use cold heavy cream for a richer, creamy Irish Coffee.
- Lightly whip the cream using a whisk or milk frother until it thickens slightly but remains pourable.
- Pour the cream gently over the back of a spoon so it floats on top instead of mixing with the coffee.
WHY SPIKE IT WITH IRISH-MADE SPIRITS?
Using authentic Irish whiskey (like Jameson, etc.) gives your Irish Coffee a bold, smooth kick — featuring classic notes of vanilla and caramel that perfectly complement the coffee’s richness and give it a consistent flavor. On the other hand, other Irish spirits like Baileys Irish Cream, will add a creamy, slightly sweet twist that eliminates the need for additional sugar and enhances the drink’s indulgent texture. Any “Irish-made” booze will bring a unique flavor profile, so choose based on your preference for a stronger or creamier drink.
MAKE AN ICED IRISH COFFEE
Not interested in a hot cocktail? Enjoy your Irish Coffee over ice:
PREPARE THE COFFEE
Brew a strong cup of coffee and let it cool slightly.
SWEETEN THE COFFEE
Stir in brown sugar or your preferred sweetener while the coffee is still warm.
CHILL THE COFFEE
Pour the coffee over a glass filled with ice.
ADD THE WHISKEY
Pour 1 ½ oz of Irish whiskey* into the sweetened coffee and stir gently.
PREPARE THE COLD CREAM
Lightly whip heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative) until thick but still pourable.
TOP & SERVE
Gently float the whipped cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or chocolate shavings and enjoy!
IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FROZEN AND AN ICED IRISH COFFEE?
Yes! An iced Irish Coffee is made by chilling brewed coffee and serving it over ice with whiskey and cream. A frozen Irish Coffee, on the other hand, is blended with ice (and sometimes ice cream) to create a creamy, slushy texture. The frozen version is more dessert-like, while the iced version keeps the bold coffee flavor intact.
MAKE A NON ALCOHOLIC IRISH COFFEE
For a non-alcoholic version of our Irish Coffee, try this:
PREPARE THE COFFEE
Brew a strong cup of coffee and let it cool slightly.
SWEETEN THE COFFEE
Stir in brown sugar or your preferred sweetener while the coffee is still warm.
ENHANCE THE FLAVOR
Add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to mimic the warmth of whiskey.
PREPARE THE CREAM
Lightly whip heavy cream (or a dairy-free option) until thick but still pourable.
ASSEMBLE & SERVE
Follow the standard steps above, omitting the alcohol.
MORE IRISH COFFEE VARIATIONS
FROZEN IRISH COFFEE
CHOCOLATE IRISH COFFEE
In step one of the recipe, add a packet of hot chocolate mix to your coffee for a rich, chocolatey twist on Irish Coffee.
DAIRY FREE IRISH COFFEE
IRISH COFFEE CAKE
This would be a perfect sweet treat to pair with your Irish Coffee!
IRISH COFFEE FAQS
Is Irish Coffee Gluten-Free? Yes. Coffee and whiskey are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I Make It Dairy-Free? Yes. Use coconut cream, oat milk, or almond milk instead of heavy cream. Lightly whip coconut cream or oat milk until thick but still pourable.
What Alcohol is Traditionally Used in a Boozy Irish Coffee? Traditional Irish Coffee is made with Irish whiskey, such as Jameson or Bushmills. However, you can substitute whiskey with Baileys Irish Cream, bourbon, or spiced rum for a unique twist.
Where was Irish Coffee Invented? Irish Coffee was first created in the 1940s at the small airport in Foynes, Ireland by Chef Joe Sheridan to keep stranded passengers warm before being popularized in Dublin’s bars and cafes. Then it spread like wildfire to the rest of the world!