Welcome to the world of Carajillo, a beloved Spanish cocktail that marries the boldness of espresso with the warmth of liquor. This drink has its roots in colonial Cuba, where Spanish soldiers would spike their coffee with rum for liquid courage, or 'coraje' in Spanish, which evolved into 'carajillo'.
Our recipe uses a robust espresso and your choice of brandy or rum. The key is to use freshly brewed, high-quality espresso - preferably a dark roast with chocolatey notes to complement the liquor. The drink is typically served in a small glass, allowing the layers to remain separate for a striking visual effect. The combination creates a perfect balance of bitter coffee and sweet, smooth alcohol, making it an ideal digestif.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Discover why Carajillo will become your new favorite after-dinner drink:
- Bold Flavor Fusion: The perfect blend of rich espresso and smooth liquor creates a unique taste experience.
- Quick and Easy: With just two main ingredients, it's simple to prepare yet impressive to serve.
- Versatile: Can be enjoyed hot or over ice, making it suitable for any season.
- Digestif Benefits: The combination of coffee and alcohol aids digestion, making it perfect after a heavy meal.
- Customizable: Experiment with different types of liquor to find your perfect match.
Classic Spanish Carajillo
Equipment
- Espresso machine or moka pot
- Small glass
- Spoon
- Ice cube tray (for iced version)
Ingredients
- 1 shot (1 oz / 30 ml) freshly brewed espresso
- 1 oz (30 ml) brandy or dark rum
- Ice cubes (optional, for iced version)
- Orange peel or coffee beans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brew a shot of espresso using your preferred method.
- In a small glass, pour the brandy or rum.
- Slowly pour the hot espresso over the back of a spoon onto the liquor to create layers.
- If desired, add ice cubes for an iced version.
- Optionally, garnish with an orange peel or a few coffee beans.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
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