Introduction
Spanish Coffee is not just a drink; it's a performance that brings a touch of theatrical flair to your cocktail repertoire. Originating from Portland, Oregon, this cocktail is a captivating blend of flaming rum, rich coffee, and a decadent topping of whipped cream and nutmeg. It's the perfect way to impress guests or add a bit of excitement to your evening.
Despite its name, Spanish Coffee is a distinctly American creation, credited to Huber's Café in Portland. The cocktail's fiery preparation and bold flavors have made it a beloved staple in bars across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The combination of alcohol and caffeine offers a delightful pick-me-up, while the presentation is sure to leave a lasting impression.
A fun fact about Spanish Coffee is that it incorporates a flaming element, which not only caramelizes the sugar rim but also enhances the drink's aroma and flavor. This makes it a unique cocktail experience, both visually and taste-wise, that stands out in any cocktail lineup.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Spanish Coffee, gather these ingredients for a fiery and flavorful experience:
- 1 Sugar: The sugar creates a sweet, caramelized rim when heated.
- 1 Lime Wedge: Use the lime wedge to moisten the rim of the glass before applying sugar.
- 0.75 oz 151-Proof Rum: 151-proof rum is ideal for its ability to ignite easily, adding drama to the presentation.
- 0.5 oz Triple Sec: Triple Sec adds a hint of citrusy sweetness to balance the drink.
- 1.5 oz Kahlúa: Kahlúa brings a rich coffee liqueur base that complements the brewed coffee.
- 3 oz Hot Freshly Brewed Coffee: Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor and aroma.
- 1 Lightly Whipped Cream: Lightly whipped cream adds a creamy, luxurious finish.
- 1 Freshly Grated Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg provides a warm, aromatic garnish.
Instructions
Crafting a Spanish Coffee is as much about the show as it is about the drink. Follow these steps for a perfect performance:
- Moisten the rim of the wineglass with lime wedge and rim with sugar.
- Fill the glass with rum and Triple Sec, and light with a match.
- Holding the glass at an angle, heat the sugar using the flame until it begins to bubble and caramelize.
- Add Kahlúa and coffee, and finish with whipped cream and freshly grated nutmeg to serve.
Tips
- Use a tempered wineglass to withstand the high heat from the flaming rum.
- Ensure the whipped cream is lightly whipped to maintain a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Be cautious when lighting the rum. Ensure the area is clear of flammable materials and have a fire extinguisher nearby just in case.
- Experiment with different coffee blends to find your preferred flavor profile.
- For a non-alcoholic version, skip the rum and Triple Sec, and enjoy a delicious coffee treat with just Kahlúa and cream.
Conclusion
Spanish Coffee is more than just a drink—it's an experience. The combination of flaming rum, rich coffee, and creamy topping makes it a standout cocktail that's sure to impress. Whether you're hosting a party or simply want to enjoy a special treat, this cocktail delivers both in taste and presentation.
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Spanish Coffee recipe adapted from The Bar Book: Elements of Cocktail Technique by Jeffrey Morgenthaler.
