Brewing your own Alcoholic Coffee Drinks
Being able to make your own delicious cocktails from the comfort of your own home is an exciting and enjoyable experience. Alcoholic coffee drinks are a popular choice and can be easy to make with the right ingredients and equipment. Whether you are looking for a creative way to enjoy an evening or in need of an extra lift to get you through the day, having the know-how to make your own alcoholic coffee drinks can be a great skill to have.
Ingredients and Equipment
When making your own alcoholic coffee drinks, you will need to purchase any particular ingredients and items of equipment you do not have. For example, coffee liqueur, coffee beans and coffee grinder, sugar, coffee filter and alcohol such as cognac or rum. Not to mention the coffee machine, coffee cups and a shaker. It is a good idea to check the ingredients you need online so you can be sure you are prepared and have everything you need.
Making the Coffee
The first step in making your own alcoholic coffee drinks is to ensure you have a good quality of ground coffee. If you do not have an electric coffee grinder, it is best to buy pre-ground coffee as it is more controlled and consistent when making your drinks. Once this is done, measure out your chosen amount of ground coffee for the drink and place into the filter. Place the filter in the coffee machine and fill the machine with fresh, cold water. Turn the machine on and let it brew.
The Cool Climate
Once the coffee is brewed, pour it into cups suitable for alcoholic drinks, as these are typically smaller than regular cups. At this stage, you can add any extra ingredients such as sugar and liqueur. Without fail, it is necessary to use a shaker when combining your drinks ingredients in order to achieve the right consistency. For ultimate thirst quenching, colder temperatures are best, so after shaking the drink and pouring it into your cup, add cold, fresh ice cubes to cool the drink even more.
A Roaring Flame
One of the most iconic ways to top off an alcoholic coffee drink is with a flame. This consists of adding a shot of either cognac or rum to the drink and if you so wish, flaming it over the cup as you pour it into a container. When it comes to flaming your alcoholic coffee drinks, be sure you know your limits. As well as being dangerous, excessive use of high-proof alcohol can damage your drink.
Flavoured Latte
If you fancy something a bit sweeter, why not try adding a flavour to your latte? A great way to do this is to use flavoured syrup such as Toasted Marshmallow or White Chocolate Tiramisu. Simply add a few drops of syrup to your cup before pouring in your prepared latte. You can also mix and match different flavours before pouring it into your cup.
Chilled Espresso Martini
Looking to make something a bit special? Who doesn’t love an espresso martini? To kick it up a notch and get those taste buds tingling, why not try chilling your espresso martini. Start by adding your espresso coffee to a shaker with vodka and coffee liqueur, a teaspoon of sugar and ice cubes. Shake until the liquid is cold and then strain into a chilled martini glass.
Cappuccino Cocktails
Cappuccinos are a timelessly popular coffee drink and you can make great alcoholic cappuccinos at home. For this recipe, you will need coffee, sugar and one or two shots of coffee liqueur or coffee brandy. First, prepare the coffee as with a regular cappuccino, then add a teaspoon of sugar and pour in the liqueur or brandy. Mix the ingredients together and enjoy your unique cappuccino cocktail.
Crunchy Syrup Infusions
Creating some interesting effects on your coffee is an easy way to make it even more enjoyable. All you need is some flavoured syrup such as caramel, white chocolate or tiramisu. Once added to your coffee and allowed to sit, the syrup will slowly sink to the bottom of your cup, creating a delicious and crunchy taste sensation.
Extra Foam Toppings
If you are a fan of creamy, milky coffee drinks, why not add an extra creamery topping or foam swirl to your coffee cocktail? This is a great way to add an extra special touch and you can use any kind of foamy whip or topping. Simply add it over the top and enjoy a delicious velvety finish.
Colourful Coffee Art masterpieces
Adding color and texture to your coffee drinks can be fun and exciting. You can use ingredients such as edible flowers, cocoa powder or even food dye to create a colourful display. For example, simply add some blue food colouring to a dark roasted coffee and you will have an amazing blue latte to admire and sip.
Enhancing your Alcoholic Coffee Drinks with Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices can add unique and interesting flavours to your alcoholic coffee drinks. For instance, adding some fresh ginger or a dash of cardamom to your latte can give it a subtly sweet and spicy taste. Another great way to change up the flavour of your drink is to substitute some of the alcohol for a flavoured liqueur such as chai or orange.
Spiked Coffees
If you feel your drink is lacking a strong kick, you may wish to add an extra shot or two of your favourite alcohol such as vodka or rum. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, give your own personal spiked coffee a go. Start by making your coffee as normal and adding a shot of whiskey. You can then infuse it by adding some orange zest or your preferred spices or herbs.
Elevating Your Coffee with Cream and Fruit
This is a great and simple way to add some extra flavour to your coffee drink. You can start by spooning in some heavy cream or half and half and stirring until it is fully mixed into your drink. To give a refreshing twist, why not add some diced fruit such as oranges, limes or strawberries? Not only will it taste delicious, but this will give the drink some extra colour and can look great when served.
Savory Combinations
Despite the common perception that coffee and alcohol are sweet, there are many savory combinations that can be equally delicious. For example, why not try adding some red pepper flakes or chili powder for a spicy kick? This can be balanced out with a teaspoon of sugar and a dash of cognac, resulting in a strong, aromatic drink.
Decaffeinated Versions
If you are looking for a healthier alternative to regular coffee cocktails, why not give decaffeinated drinks a try? This is easier than ever with a wide range of decaf coffee options available. From decaf coffee liqueur to decaf coffee beans, you can still have all the flavour without getting that caffeine buzz.
Low-Alcohol Alternatives
Even if you are not keen on added alcohol, you can still make delicious coffee cocktails with a variety of low-alcohol options. Consider adding frozen coffee cubes or applesauce for a milder taste. Alternatively, a small amount of moonshine or Kahlúa both add a unique and delicious flavour.
Conclusion
Making your own alcoholic coffee drinks can be a great way to relax and get creative in the kitchen. With the right ingredients and equipment, you can mix up a variety of unique drinks for either special occasions or just for fun. There is no limit to the inventive combinations you can come up with and no matter what you do, you are sure to have a delicious drink to savor.
