Spanish Coffee (Rum, Kahlua & Creamy Warmth)
Spanish Coffee combines rich dark rum, sweet Kahlua, and smooth whipped cream for a decadent hot cocktail that warms any occasion. Perfect for cozy nights or dessert moments with a hint of citrus flair.
A Warm Classic in a Glass
This Spanish Coffee recipe blends coffee, rum, and liqueurs into a creamy, spirit-forward indulgence. With every sip, you’ll taste the harmony of caramel, coffee, and subtle orange zest.
Background
Inspired by the Spanish tradition of pairing coffee with spirits, this drink became iconic in the U.S. thanks to Oregon’s Huber’s Café, where bartenders flambé the rum tableside for a dramatic presentation.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Dark Rum – the warming base with rich caramel notes.
- Kahlua – coffee sweetness that deepens flavor.
- Triple Sec – a citrus sparkle to brighten the mix.
- Fresh Coffee – the robust backbone of the drink.
- Sugar & Lemon – create a sweet-tart rim.
- Whipped Cream – cools and softens each sip.
Equipment
Irish coffee glass, lighter or matches (for flambé), bar spoon, small saucepan.
Why You’ll Love It
Theatre & Comfort in One Cup
Few drinks balance drama and coziness like Spanish Coffee. The gentle flame caramelizes the sugar rim, while the whipped cream melts into velvety layers of coffee and rum.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap Kahlua for any coffee liqueur like Tia Maria or Mr. Black.
- Try orange curaçao instead of Triple Sec for a deeper citrus note.
- For a lighter take, use decaf coffee and skip flambéing.
Helpful Tips
- Warm the glass before building to prevent cracking.
- Keep the flambé flame short – 5 seconds is enough.
- Garnish with cinnamon or orange zest for aroma.
Spanish Coffee Recipe
Type of Glass
Irish Coffee Cup
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz.
- 3/4 oz.
- 1/4 oz.
- 8 oz.
- 1 Wedge Lemon
Directions
- Rim a heat-resistant Irish coffee cup with a lemon wedge, then dip the rim into sugar to create a sweet crust.
- In a small saucepan, gently warm the dark rum. For extra flair, you may flambé it carefully using a long lighter—keep clear of cabinets or other flammable surfaces.
- Pour the warmed rum into the prepared glass, then add the Kahlua and ¼ oz Triple Sec.
- Pour in the hot brewed coffee and stir gently to combine.
- Top with whipped cream and garnish with cocoa powder or cinnamon, if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Spanish Coffee delivers café charm and fireside comfort in every mug. One sip, and you’ll see why it’s a cold-weather favorite.
