Introduction
Café Brulôt is a cocktail that embodies the spirit and flair of New Orleans. Known for its dramatic presentation, this flaming coffee concoction is a staple at Brennan's, a legendary restaurant in the French Quarter. With a blend of brandy, orange curaçao, and robust French-roast coffee, Café Brulôt offers a sensory experience that delights both the eyes and the palate.
The origins of Café Brulôt date back to the late 19th century, when it was crafted as a post-dinner digestif to ward off the chill of winter evenings. Its name, meaning 'burnt coffee,' hints at the fiery preparation process that makes it so unique. Traditionally served in demitasse cups, this cocktail is as much about the spectacle as it is about the taste.
Interestingly, Café Brulôt was once considered a symbol of sophistication and was often enjoyed by the elite in New Orleans society. Today, it remains a popular choice for those looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a bit of theatrical mixology. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious novice, Café Brulôt is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Café Brulôt, you'll need a selection of quality ingredients. Here's what you'll need to get started:
- 8 oz Brandy: Choose a smooth, high-quality brandy to complement the coffee's robust flavor.
- 4 oz Orange Curaçao: Orange curaçao adds a sweet, citrusy note that balances the richness of the brandy.
- 12 Cloves: Cloves provide a warm, spicy aroma essential to the cocktail's character.
- 2 Orange Peel: Use fresh orange peel for a vibrant citrus fragrance.
- 6 tsp Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar helps to caramelize the flavors during the flaming process.
- 2 Cinnamon Stick: Cinnamon sticks add a subtle spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 33.8 oz French-Roast Coffee: Opt for a dark French-roast coffee to stand up to the strong flavors of the liquor.
- 1.5 oz Overproof Rum: Overproof rum is used to ignite the cocktail, adding a touch of drama to the presentation.
Instructions
Crafting Café Brulôt requires a bit of finesse and flair. Follow these steps to ensure a perfect execution:
- Mix brandy, curaçao, 6 cloves, 1 orange peel, and sugar in a bowl. Add cinnamon sticks and let stand.
- Prepare coffee and keep it hot. Stud the second orange peel with remaining cloves.
- Pour mixture into Café Brulôt bowl or chafing dish. Warm mixture and ignite with ladle.
- Pour flaming brandy over clove-studded orange peel. Add coffee to extinguish flame.
- Serve in demitasse cups.
Tips
- Ensure your coffee is hot and freshly brewed to maintain the cocktail's warmth and depth of flavor.
- Use a long-handled ladle to safely ignite the brandy mixture and control the flames.
- Be cautious with the flaming process—always keep a fire extinguisher nearby and never leave the flames unattended.
- For an extra aromatic touch, use a microplane to zest some fresh orange over the cocktail before serving.
- Experiment with different coffee blends to find your preferred balance of flavors.
Conclusion
Café Brulôt is more than just a cocktail—it's a celebration of flavor and tradition. With its rich history and captivating presentation, it offers a unique way to end a meal or delight guests at your next gathering. The combination of brandy, orange curaçao, and coffee, ignited for dramatic effect, creates an unforgettable experience.
Ready to explore the world of cocktails further? Download the BarBot app to discover a wide array of recipes, log your tasting notes, and share your creations with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're mastering the art of Café Brulôt or venturing into new mixological territories, BarBot is your ultimate companion in the journey of cocktail discovery. Cheers to new adventures!
Café Brulôt recipe adapted from The Craft of the Cocktail by Dale DeGroff.
