Dublin Iced Coffee Recipe

A sophisticated collision of worlds where robust cold brew coffee mingles with Irish whiskey and coffee liqueur, crowned with velvety whipped cream and a whisper of chocolate bitterness.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
An overhead shot of a tall glass tumbler showcasing distinct layers of deep mahogany coffee and whiskey blend, topped with pristine white whipped cream that's just beginning to melt into the dark liquid below. Amber-tinted bar lighting catches the glass edges, creating a warm glow against the dark cocktail. A light dusting of cocoa powder creates a delicate pattern across the cream's surface, while a single coffee bean rests on top as garnish. Droplets of condensation form on the glass's exterior, suggesting the refreshing chill within. The scene is completed with a folded napkin and perhaps a small spoon nearby, all arranged on a polished wooden bar surface that reflects subtle hints of light.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">45ml Irish whiskey (Jameson or Tullamore D.E.W.)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or Mr. Black)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">120ml cold brew coffee</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml simple syrup</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml fresh whipped cream</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Pinch of cocoa powder for garnish</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Coffee bean for garnish (optional)</li> </ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Cocktail mixing glass</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Bar spoon</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger for measuring</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Tall glass tumbler</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Small whisk or hand mixer</li> </ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Begin by preparing your cold brew coffee in advance (ideally 12-24 hours before) or use a high-quality store-bought version. The smoothness of cold brew is essential for this cocktail as it lacks the acidity and bitterness of hot-brewed coffee that's been cooled. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> In a small bowl, whip 60ml of fresh cream until it reaches soft peaks – you want it thick enough to float but not stiff like whipped cream for desserts. The perfect texture should slowly pour but hold its shape atop the cocktail. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Fill your tall glass tumbler with ice cubes, preferably larger cubes that will melt more slowly and maintain the cocktail's strength. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Pour the Irish whiskey, coffee liqueur, cold brew coffee, and simple syrup into a mixing glass with ice. Stir gently for about 15-20 seconds to properly chill and combine the ingredients while maintaining the coffee's clarity. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Strain the mixture into your ice-filled tumbler. Leave about 1.5cm of space at the top for the cream layer. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> To create the perfect layered effect, hold a bar spoon (curved side up) just above the surface of the cocktail and slowly pour the whipped cream over the back of the spoon. This technique helps the cream float atop the coffee rather than sinking. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Dust the cream lightly with cocoa powder using a small sieve for even application, and place a single coffee bean in the center as an aromatic garnish if desired. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Serve immediately with a straw and a small spoon. The ideal way to enjoy this cocktail is to sip through the cream, allowing it to gradually incorporate with the coffee mixture beneath. </li> </ol>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 cocktail
🔥 Calories: 230 calories
🥑 Fat: 5 g
🧈 Saturated Fat: 3 g
🍞 Carbohydrates: 18 g
🍭 Sugar: 16 g
🍗 Protein: 1 g
🫀 Cholesterol: 15 mg
🧂 Sodium: 40 mg

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

What's the best Irish whiskey to use in a coffee cocktail?

A smooth Irish whiskey like Jameson, Tullamore D.E.W., or Bushmills works best. These whiskies have a gentle, approachable character that complements coffee without overwhelming it. For a richer profile, try Redbreast 12 or Green Spot for more complexity and depth.

Can I prepare cold brew coffee specifically for cocktails?

Absolutely! For cocktail-specific cold brew, use a higher coffee-to-water ratio (1:4 rather than 1:7) to create a concentrated brew that stands up to dilution. Consider using medium-dark roast beans with chocolate or nutty notes that complement whiskey beautifully.

How do I achieve the perfect layered cream effect in coffee cocktails?

The key is properly whipped cream (soft peaks, not stiff) and proper pouring technique. Hold a bar spoon curved-side up just above the cocktail surface and slowly pour the cream over the back of the spoon. This diffuses the weight of the cream, helping it float rather than sink.

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