How to Make a Carajillo: Authentic Spanish Cocktail Recipe
So, You Want to Try a Carajillo? Let Me Put You On…
Picture this: You’ve just had a boujee dinner, and you're feeling fancy, but you need something to really wrap it all up. Dessert? Nah. You’re classier than that. You need a drink that says, “Yeah, I’ve got my life together—at least until tomorrow morning.” Enter the Carajillo, a Spanish cocktail that's got the right amount of kick with espresso and your favorite liquor.
It’s like coffee, but for grown-ups who know how to handle their liquor... or at least pretend to. You get the bold hit of espresso—because adulting is exhausting—with the smooth warmth of booze. It’s basically your new go-to for a cozy night in or when you’re trying to impress someone after lunch. Trust me, you’ll feel like a sophisticated beast with this one in your hand.
In this wildly unnecessary but completely necessary guide, I’m gonna teach you how to make a Carajillo that'll have people thinking you’ve got culinary skills you definitely don’t.
Carajillo 101: What Is It?
Alright, let me break it down for you. A Carajillo is this classic Spanish drink that’s honestly so simple, even I can make it without burning something. It’s hot espresso mixed with liquor—usually brandy, rum, or this magical stuff called Licor 43, which tastes like vanilla and citrus had a baby. This thing is bold, it’s flavorful, and it’s the kind of cocktail that makes you feel classy without actually having to put in effort. Like, you sip it after a fancy meal and suddenly you’re like, “Yeah, I could own a yacht.”
Ingredients You’ll Need:
1 shot of espresso (about 1 oz)
1.5 oz of Licor 43 (or brandy/rum, depending on your preference)
Ice cubes (optional)
Sugar (optional for sweetness)
A twist of lemon or cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)
How to Make a Carajillo
Brew the Espresso: Start by brewing a fresh shot of espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use strong black coffee as a substitute, but for the best results, espresso is ideal.
Choose Your Liquor: Select your liquor. The most common choice is Licor 43, but brandy or rum can also work. The liquor brings a smooth, warming sweetness to balance the rich bitterness of the coffee.
Mix It Together: Pour the liquor into a heat-resistant glass or cup. If you prefer your Carajillo cold, add a few ice cubes. Then, pour the freshly brewed espresso over the liquor.
Add Sweetness (Optional): If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can stir in a little sugar or add a dash of simple syrup.
Garnish and Serve: Finish your Carajillo with a twist of lemon or a cinnamon stick to enhance the flavors and presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You Need a Carajillo in Your Life
Okay, real talk—this drink isn’t just a cocktail; it’s a whole vibe. You’re not just sipping espresso with liquor, you’re elevating your entire existence for a hot minute. Perfect for when you want to be fancy, but not, like, “buy a yacht” fancy. The Carajillo’s got you covered if you’re a coffee addict looking to sneak in a little extra to your routine. I’m talking about a drink that says, “I’m an adult, but I still know how to have fun.”
When’s the Perfect Time for a Carajillo?
After you’ve crushed it at a fancy dinner with friends or family and you want to flex your cocktail knowledge.
When it’s cold outside, you’re wrapped in a blanket, and you need something to warm up your soul—aka, a cozy drink on a chilly evening.
You just demolished a big, hearty lunch, and now you need a bold, sweet little somethin’ to top it off.
This recipe is so easy, it’s practically foolproof. Plus, it’ll make you look like a pro in front of your guests—or just give you that much-needed self-care moment you’ve been pretending you don’t need.
Pin This Bad Boy
Like the sound of this authentic Spanish cocktail? Then you better pin it, save it, tattoo it—whatever you gotta do to keep it in your life. Whether you’re team Licor 43, brandy, or rum, you can totally customize this bad boy to match your vibe. Go ahead, treat yourself.
"Lata Carajillo oro express con baso con hielos" by guillermo moreno is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
