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Warm Vanilla Caramel Irish Coffee - Cozy, Sweet, and Comforting

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Freshly brewed hot coffee (medium or dark roast)
  • Irish whiskey (Jameson, Tullamore D.E.W., or your favorite)
  • Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Pure vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
  • Brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • Heavy cream (for topping)
  • Sea salt (a pinch, optional, for salted caramel)
  • Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional garnish)

Method
 

  1. Warm your mug. Fill your mug with hot water for a minute, then dump it out. A warm mug keeps the drink hot longer and helps the cream sit nicely on top.
  2. Make the whipped cream. In a small bowl, lightly whisk heavy cream until it thickens slightly but is still pourable. You want a soft, billowy texture, not stiff peaks.
  3. Flavor the base. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the warm mug. If you like it sweeter, add 1 teaspoon of brown sugar. Stir to combine.
  4. Add the whiskey. Pour in 1.5 ounces of Irish whiskey. Stir to blend the caramel, vanilla, and whiskey into a smooth base. For a salt-kissed finish, add a tiny pinch of sea salt.
  5. Top with hot coffee. Fill the mug with 6 to 8 ounces of freshly brewed hot coffee. Stir gently until everything is fully dissolved and the drink looks uniform and glossy.
  6. Float the cream. Slowly pour the lightly whipped cream over the back of a spoon so it settles on top in a silky layer. This creates the classic Irish coffee look and a lovely contrast of hot and cool.
  7. Garnish and serve. Dust with a little cinnamon or nutmeg. Drizzle a thin ribbon of caramel over the cream if you’re feeling festive. Sip through the cream for the best experience.