Mexican Coffee Cocktail

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Your next cup of java will be a spicy one when you make the Mexican Coffee cocktail.

Let’s set a cozy little scene, shall we?

The cottage is snug and warm, with the fireplace ablaze, filling the domicile with a loving heat that covers you like a blanket against the wind and rain outside. The chaise longue you’ve hopped on is like a pillowy cloud, and with a good book ready to be cracked open, all you need now is a hot—and possibly spiked—beverage to tickle your tummy.

The Irish Coffee is one of the more popular options for an evening such as this one, and you’d do well to have a few. But let’s explore a spicier choice, shall we? Tonight’s recipe is an unforgettable alternative, the Mexican Coffee. A toasty and tasty blend of tequila, freshly brewed java and coffee liqueur topped with whipped cream, every sip is guaranteed to melt away any chills that might’ve crept up your spine, and break any ice that started forming.

An invention of Vic Bergeron of Trader Vic’s fame, back when he had the Mexican-themed restaurant Señor Pico, the Mexican Coffee was inspired by the Buena Vista Irish Coffee that became popular in San Francisco. In place of whiskey, Bergeron used tequila instead, giving his version its signature Southwestern flair. The Mexican Coffee’s reputation traveled fast, and to this day, it’s a popular drink at Mexican restaurants everywhere.

What Is The Best Alcohol To Use In A Mexican Coffee Cocktail?

The base spirit you’ll be using when mixing up the Mexican Coffee is tequila. When I tried this at home, I went with a clear and unaged blanco spirit, which brought a nice earthiness along with a peppery finish that complemented the dark and bitter joe. For the Coffee Liqueur, we recommend this homemade recipe found right here at Twist & Toast.

FAQs & Tips

WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH ARE USED?

Take your nicest heat-resistant glass mug and warm it by filling it with hot water. Spill that out, pour your Mexican Coffee in and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, sprinkled with cinnamon.

CAN YOU STORE THE MEXICAN COFFEE?

If you’d like to try this recipe in a chilled fashion, mix and stir everything together and store covered in your fridge until you’re ready to drink. Pour over ice and add the garnish.

HOW MANY CALORIES ARE IN A MEXICAN COFFEE?

Each cup of Mexican Coffee will have about 237 calories, so keep an eye on that count as you enjoy more servings of this beverage.

WHAT IS THE BEST COFFEE TO USE IN A MEXICAN COFFEE?

There are so many styles, blends and roasts of coffee that you can choose from at your grocery store that it can be overwhelming. Use your favorite, because I know you have one. For this recipe, I went with a robust and strong Café Bustelo, which is closer to an espresso type of coffee.

Other Coffee Beverages Worth Trying

It might be a long, chilly night. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it. Hot, spiked beverages are one of life’s greatest, smallest pleasures. If the Mexican Coffee made you fall in love with its sweet and spicy charms upon the first sip, then you’ll want to try out some of these other coffee-infused tipples.

• Gin Espresso Martini – An herbaceous take on the trendy classic.
• Long Island Iced Coffee – This icy beverage has quite the kick, so brace yourself.
• Non-Alcoholic Espresso Martini – Cut out the booze for this morning mocktail.
• Colorado Bulldog – This coffee cocktail is a fizzy and refreshing concoction.