Irish Coffee is a classic post-war cocktail created for weary transatlantic travelers in the 1940s, credited to bartender Joe Sheridan at Foynes and later popularized through Shannon and San Francisco; its enduring appeal lies in the simple harmony of hot coffee, a modest measure of Irish whiskey, and a floating cap of cream. A truly authentic version emphasizes balance: hot, robust coffee, just enough brown sugar to mellow the spirit, and lightly whipped cream poured to float so each sip cools at the lip. One practical tip is to always warm the Irish coffee mug so the cream stays aloft—handy whether you're in Buffalo or shopping at our store.
Ingredients
| 1 ½ oz | Irish whiskey |
| 4 oz | hot strong brewed coffee |
| 1 tsp | packed brown sugar |
| 1 oz | lightly whipped heavy cream, slightly aerated |
Instructions
- Warm an Irish coffee mug with hot water, discard the water and preheat the mug
- Add the brown sugar to the warm mug and pour in the Irish whiskey
- Fill the mug with hot brewed coffee, leaving room at the top, and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved
- Lightly whip the cream until it just thickens and pour it gently over the back of a spoon so it floats on the surface
- Serve without stirring so each sip comes through hot coffee then cooled by the cream
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Pick up everything you need at Buffalo House Liquor & Wines in Tonawanda, NY — same-day delivery across Buffalo, Kenmore, Williamsville, and surrounding areas, or grab them in-store.
Irish Whiskey
Whiskey Alternatives
Want more cocktail inspiration? Browse our full cocktail recipes collection, or pair this drink with our latest spirits guides. For questions about any bottle, call us at (716) 770-1230.
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