Café Brulot (New Orleans Coffee Flambé)
A fiery New Orleans classic that blends bold coffee, rich cognac, and citrusy spice in a dramatic flambé. Perfect for cozy nights or festive tables, the Café Brulot warms both hands and spirit.
A Toast to New Orleans Tradition
Born in the French Quarter, Café Brulot (“burnt coffee”) turns an after-dinner coffee into theater. Cognac meets black coffee, citrus, and spice—flambéed tableside for a show worthy of the city’s flair.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Black Coffee – the strong, aromatic base.
- Cognac – adds depth and warmth.
- Triple Sec – bright orange sweetness.
- Cinnamon Stick & Clove – cozy spice duo.
- Lemon & Orange Peel – citrus oils for aroma.
- Sugar – balances bitterness.
Equipment
Heat-proof mugs, saucepan, long match, strainer.
Why You’ll Love It 🔥
Each sip layers bold roast, orange zest, and spiced brandy heat—a fireside indulgence that feels equal parts cocktail and ritual.
Variations & Substitutions
- Swap brandy or bourbon for cognac.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla.
- For lighter sweetness, use honey instead of sugar.
Helpful Tips
- Always flambé on a clear surface away from drafts.
- Pre-warm your cups to keep the drink hot longer.
- Garnish with a fresh orange twist for extra fragrance.
Café Brulot Recipe
Type of Glass
Mug
Ingredients
- 1 cup
- 1/4 cup
- 1 oz.
- 1
- 3-4 Clove
- 1 cut into julienne (thin strips)
- 1 cut into julienne (thin strips) Orange Peel
- 2 tsp.
Directions
- Brew a cup of strong, high-quality coffee and keep it warm.
- In a saucepan, combine the cognac, triple sec, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, lemon peel, and orange peel.
- Warm the mixture gently over low heat, avoiding boiling. Carefully ignite it with a long match or lighter to flambé, letting the flames subside naturally to infuse the flavors.
- When the flames have died down, pour in the hot coffee to combine and extinguish any remaining flame. Stir gently.
- Strain out the spices and peels, then pour the Café Brulot into heatproof cups.
- Optionally, dust lightly with nutmeg before serving.
Raise a toast to tradition—Café Brulot proves that coffee and cognac make magic when set aflame.
