Irish Cream Iced Coffee (Hot or Cold St. Patrick’s Drink)
Do you crave a drink that’s both refreshing and a little indulgent? The Irish Cream Iced Coffee (Hot or Cold St. Patrick’s Drink) is a delightful fusion of rich coffee flavors, creamy Irish whiskey liqueur, and a hint of bold brew. Dreamy layers of sweetness and creaminess make each sip feel like a treat. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm afternoon or stirring it into your morning routine, it’s the kind of drink that will give you a moment to savor the pleasures of life.
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Having first tasted this concoction on a spirited St. Patrick’s Day, I was taken by how a simple twist on the classic iced coffee could elevate the experience. The combination of chilled coffee with a splash of Guinness (or Irish whiskey, if you prefer) redefines what iced coffee can be. Add in a touch of Bailey’s Irish Cream liqueur for richness and a dollop of whipped cream, and you’ve got a drink that’s bound to impress your friends and family. I can’t wait for you to give this easy recipe a whirl!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Whip this up in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Irresistible Flavor: The harmonious blend of coffee, cream, and a dash of Guinness creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Topped with fluffy whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder, it’s a visual treat too!
- Flexible Serving: Ideal as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up or a fun evening cocktail; it’s versatile for countless occasions.
- Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily substitute the Guinness for Irish whiskey if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 ounces chilled coffee or espresso: For a robust flavor, use freshly brewed coffee that’s been chilled; espresso adds an intense coffee kick.
- 2.5 ounces Guinness draught or Irish whiskey: Guinness brings a unique, malty flavor, while whiskey offers a smoother, classic Irish profile. Choose your favorite!
- 0.5 ounce simple syrup: This sweet nectar balances the bitterness of coffee. You can make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat.
- 2 ounces Bailey’s Irish Cream liqueur: Rich and creamy, this liqueur is the heart of the drink.
- Whipped cream (optional): Optional but delightful; it adds a cloud-like finish to your drink.
- Cocoa powder or cinnamon to garnish: Sprinkling some on top adds a touch of elegance and a flavor contrast that’s irresistible.
How to Make Irish Cream Iced Coffee (Hot or Cold St. Patrick’s Drink)
Mix the base: In a sturdy glass, combine the 4 ounces chilled coffee or espresso, 2.5 ounces Guinness, and 0.5 ounce simple syrup. Stir gently to mix the ingredients well. The color will deepen as the flavors blend, taking on a delightful coffee hue.
Add the Irish Cream: Carefully pour 2 ounces of Bailey’s Irish Cream liqueur over the top. Watch as it gracefully settles in, creating a beautiful layered effect and filling your kitchen with a warm aroma that’s oh-so inviting.
Finish with a topping: If you’re feeling indulgent, top your drink with a generous dollop of whipped cream. This extra touch makes it feel like a special treat rather than just an afternoon caffeine boost.
Garnish beautifully: Finally, dust the whipped cream with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon to add an appealing presentation and a little extra flavor. It’ll look so good you’ll almost hate to drink it (but don’t resist!).
Storing & Reheating
For the best flavor, Irish Cream Iced Coffee is best enjoyed fresh. If you happen to have leftovers, store any unused coffee or prepared drink in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the whipped cream isn’t suitable for storage, so it’s best added right before serving. If you’d like to prepare ahead of time, consider brewing your coffee and chilling it to enjoy later.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid using hot coffee as it may curdle the Bailey’s Irish Cream; ensure it’s chilled.
- If your coffee seems too strong, feel free to adjust the simple syrup to suit your sweetness preference.
- For a kick of flavor, try adding a dash of vanilla extract to your coffee before mixing.
- Experiment with different garnishes like shaved chocolate or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a decadent finish. You can even skip the alcohol for a family-friendly version!
The perfect balance between a coffee fix and a creamy treat, this Irish Cream Iced Coffee delights any time of day. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s absolutely brimming with rich flavor.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this drink without alcohol?
Absolutely! You can skip the Guinness or whiskey and just use more coffee. For a non-alcoholic version, consider adding a splash of vanilla essence or a flavored syrup for sweetness.
How can I customize the sweetness of this drink?
Adjust the 0.5 ounce simple syrup to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter drink, simply add a bit more syrup, or try using flavored syrups to enhance the taste further.
What coffee is best to use for this recipe?
I recommend using strong brewed coffee or espresso for a rich, bold flavor. Cold brew is also an excellent option for a smooth and less acidic taste.
How do I store leftover Irish Cream Iced Coffee?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store any made drink without whipped cream in the fridge for up to 2 days. Remember to give it a stir before you drink it again, as ingredients may separate.
Now, armed with this fantastic recipe, you can craft your very own Irish Cream Iced Coffee (Hot or Cold St. Patrick’s Drink) and enjoy a delightful beverage that transports you straight to a cozy cafe. Experiment, enjoy, and let every sip wrap you in comfort. Cheers!
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📖 Recipe Card
Irish Cream Iced Coffee (Hot or Cold St. Patrick’s Drink)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Experience the delightful blend of chilled coffee and Irish cream liqueur in this easy Irish Cream Iced Coffee. Perfect for a festive occasion, its creamy texture and delicious flavor make it a favorite among coffee lovers everywhere.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces chilled coffee or espresso
- 2.5 ounces guinness draught substitute irish whiskey if you prefer
- 0.5 ounce simple syrup
- 2 ounces bailey's irish cream liqueur
- whipped cream optional
- cocoa powder or cinnamon to garnish
Instructions
- In a glass filled with ice, combine the cold coffee, Guinness, and simple syrup.
- Carefully pour the Irish cream liqueur over the top of the mixture.
- Optionally top with whipped cream and sprinkle cocoa powder or cinnamon.
- Serve immediately with a straw for mixing.
Notes
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of simple syrup used.
For a stronger flavor, substitute the Guinness with a whiskey or adjust to taste.
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the coffee ahead of time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
