What is an Irish Coffee?

In this blog we take a closer look at this iconic drink that is loved all over the world. We will discuss what exactly Irish Coffee is, how to prepare it yourself, and which coffee is best suited for this delicious treat. Whether you're a coffee lover, whiskey lover, or simply looking for a warm and heart-warming drink, we have all the information you need to help you enjoy the perfect Irish Coffee experience. Let us take you on a journey through the history and taste of this classic drink!

What is Irish Coffee?

The Irish Coffee is famous worldwide as the ultimate coffee cocktail, loved for its warm, rich taste and heart-warming ingredients. This delicious drink consists of a base of fresh, hot coffee, enriched with a dash of Irish whiskey and finished with a generous dollop of whipped cream.

The origins of Irish Coffee date back to the harsh winter of 1940, when Joe Sheridan, an Irish bartender and chef, was working at an airport in Limmerick County, Ireland. During these cold days, he came up with a welcome drink for passengers landing at the airport, with the aim of quickly warming up and welcoming them. He combined strong coffee with a generous amount of sugar, added a dash of Irish whiskey for an extra warming effect, and topped it all off with a generous layer of fresh whipped cream. The result was a sensational drink that soon became known as Irish Coffee.

Since then, Irish Coffee has held a special place in the hearts of coffee lovers around the world, not only because of its delicious taste, but also because of the rich history and artisanal craftsmanship that comes with it. It remains a beloved drink that is perfect for social gatherings, festive occasions, or simply as a warm treat on a cold day.

How to make an Irish Coffee

Although there are many variations on the Irish Coffee recipe, the original recipe is surprisingly simple and requires only a few ingredients. To prepare this delicious hot drink, mix 25 ml of whisky, 80 ml of black coffee and a full tablespoon of sugar in a coffee cup. Then carefully pour 30 ml of full cream on top of the mixture, without stirring, so that the cream remains on the coffee. The result is a tempting combination of rich coffee, smooth whiskey and creamy cream, perfect for enjoying on any occasion. This classic recipe allows you to effortlessly enjoy an authentic Irish Coffee experience at home.

Which coffee for an Irish Coffee

For an authentic Irish Coffee, the choice of coffee beans is crucial. It is advisable to choose high-quality freshly ground coffee beans from medium to dark roast, as these offer a rich, full flavor that goes well with the other ingredients of the Irish Coffee. Espresso beans or high-intensity coffee beans are ideal for this drink, as they have a strong flavor and aroma that stand out beautifully in combination with the whiskey and cream. By choosing the right coffee beans you ensure that every sip of your Irish Coffee is a delicious and unforgettable experience.

View our options for strong coffee beans here

Other options for Irish Coffee

At Coffeehenk you can easily prepare an Irish Coffee, for example the Gimoka Irish Coffee for Dolce Gusto, which is very suitable for an Irish Coffee.

There are also instant options, such as the Hearts Cappuccino Irish Cream. This provides a delicious crema layer on top of the coffee.

Caprimo Irish Cappuccino, very suitable for an Irish Coffee.

You can also easily prepare an Irish Coffee with a pod machine with the Domino Irish Cream, which also provides a soft crema layer on top of the coffee.
All you have to add is the whiskey and you can enjoy an Irish Coffee.

The Irish Coffee is not just a hot drink, but a delicious and characteristic mix of rich coffee, strong whiskey and creamy cream. With its simple but effective recipe and the possibility of varying it with different types of coffee beans, it is a drink that easily adapts to different taste preferences. The rich history behind Irish Coffee, from its origins in an Irish airport to its worldwide popularity, adds an extra dimension to the experience. Whether you're looking for a warming treat on a cold day, a unique cocktail to impress friends, or just a moment of pure enjoyment, the Irish Coffee is a drink you should definitely try. With its distinctive taste and cozy appearance, it is a drink that is suitable for any occasion and an asset to every coffee lover.