Carajillo
Licor 43 over ice with fresh espresso poured on top. Spain and Mexico's favourite after-dinner drink.
Built in glass · Rocks glass · Easy · about 2 minutes · about 18% ABV
Ingredients
- 50 ml Licor 43
- 30 ml Espresso
- Coffee beans (garnish)
Method
- Ice the glass
- Pour 50 ml Licor 43 into the glass
- Top with 30 ml espresso
- Garnish
Tip
Shake it with ice for a frothy version.
About the Carajillo
The Carajillo is a traditional Spanish coffee with a dash of spirit. One story says it comes from Spanish troops in Cuba, who mixed coffee and rum for "corajillo", or courage. In Mexico it is now made with Licor 43 over ice.
The coffee family. Coffee and spirits have long been paired across Europe, from the Spanish carajillo to the Italian caffè corretto. Irish Coffee was created at Foynes in Ireland in the early 1940s, and the Espresso Martini in London in the 1980s. These drinks belong to the after-dinner tradition.
Carajillo FAQ
What's in a Carajillo?
50 ml licor 43, 30 ml espresso, garnished with coffee beans.
How strong is a Carajillo?
About 18% ABV once mixed with ice, which is 1.2 Australian standard drinks per serve. That is stronger than a glass of wine.
Should I shake or stir a Carajillo?
Neither. Build it straight in the glass over ice, then give it one gentle stir.
What glass do you serve a Carajillo in?
A rocks glass, about 300 ml. Serve it over ice. No rocks glass? Use any short, heavy tumbler.
