The easiest after-dinner cocktail to delight your guests – the Carajillo coffee cocktail
When it comes to deciding on your after-dinner drink, are you team spirit or coffee?
If like me and you love both, I have found the perfect drink for you.
The classic, two-ingredient Carajillo coffee cocktail not only combines coffee (or more precisely espresso) and the slightly sweet and spicy Liqueur 43. It could not be easier to make either.
Now the idea to spike your coffee with something alcoholic, usually whisky, rum, or in the case of Italy, grappa, is nothing new. But once you have tasted the Carajillo, you will realize you’ve reached another level.
The cocktail was first created in Spain several centuries ago, but is most popular in Mexico, where it is frequently served as digestif, or as a substitute for dessert.
What makes this cocktail so irresistible is the perfect flavour combination of the slightly bitter notes from the espresso and a spicy sweetness from the Liqueur 43.
What is Liqueur 43
Liqueur 43, or Liqueur Quaranta y tres as it is called in Spain, is a Spanish liqueur made of 43 different ingredients. The final blend remains a secret but on the brands website you can find an indication of the ingredients.
The final complex flavour of the Liqueur 43 is based on four distinct flavour profiles including aromas of citrus fruits, the flavour of mature fruits and notes of vanilla, floral notes of lemon and orange blossoms, along with herbs and spices adding a botanical note.
Apparently, the liqueur was first made by the Zamora family in 1946 based on an ancient recipe which is said to be some 2000 years old. Today, it is one of the most popular liqueurs in Spain and across Latin America.
Don’t miss out on what is likely to become the cocktail of the year: How to prepare a Carajillo cocktail
Mixing up a Carajillo cocktail could not be easier.
That said, as with every popular drink, there is not just one way to prepare this coffee cocktail.
The most significant difference is whether the coffee/espresso is use hot or cold.
For the classic Mexican version of the Carajillo, it is the latter. Which makes the cocktail perfect for the warmer season.
Serves 1
60 ml Liqueur 43
60 ml espresso, chilled
Fill a lowball glass halfway with ice cubes. Add the Liqueur 43 then slowly pour the espresso on top. This will create the two-coloured layer.
Stir to combine before drinking.
Do you have a favourite coffee cocktail? Let me know in the comments below.
Carrots and Tigers 