As a barista, you have a unique opportunity to combine your knowledge of coffee with your bartending skills to create exciting and delicious mixed drinks. Here are some essential mixed drinks that incorporate coffee or coffee-related ingredients:
1. Espresso Martini
This classic cocktail combines the bold flavor of espresso with vodka and coffee liqueur. Shake together 1 ½ oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, and 1 oz freshly brewed espresso with ice. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with coffee beans.
2. Irish Coffee
A warm and comforting drink, Irish Coffee blends coffee with Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and topped with whipped cream. Start by dissolving 2 teaspoons of brown sugar in 4 oz of hot brewed coffee. Add 1 ½ oz of Irish whiskey and stir. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and optionally sprinkle with cocoa powder.
3. Mocha Martini
This indulgent cocktail combines the flavors of chocolate and coffee. Shake together 1 ½ oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz chocolate liqueur, and 1 oz freshly brewed espresso with ice. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with chocolate shavings.
4. Coffee Old Fashioned
A twist on the classic Old Fashioned, this version incorporates coffee flavors. Muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of aromatic bitters in a glass. Add 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey and stir. Pour in 1 oz of freshly brewed coffee and add ice. Stir again and garnish with an orange twist.
5. Coffee Colada
A tropical-inspired drink that combines the flavors of coffee and coconut. Blend together 1 ½ oz rum, 2 oz coconut cream, 2 oz pineapple juice, 1 oz freshly brewed coffee, and ice until smooth. Pour into a glass and garnish with a pineapple wedge.
6. Café Manhattan
A coffee-infused twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. Stir together 2 oz rye whiskey, 1 oz sweet vermouth, and ½ oz coffee liqueur with ice. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a cherry.
7. Espresso White Russian
A coffee-infused version of the popular White Russian cocktail. Fill a glass with ice and add 1 ½ oz vodka, ¾ oz coffee liqueur, and 1 oz freshly brewed espresso. Stir gently and top with a splash of cream or milk.
8. Caramel Macchiato Martini
This martini captures the flavors of a popular coffeehouse drink. Rim a martini glass with caramel sauce. Shake together 1 ½ oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz caramel syrup, and 2 oz freshly brewed espresso with ice. Strain into the prepared glass and optionally drizzle with additional caramel sauce.
Remember to enjoy these drinks responsibly and adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Cheers to your creativity as a barista and mixologist!
