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This creamy cocktail combines the rich flavors of freshly brewed coffee with the smooth sweetness of Bailey's, enhanced by a touch of vanilla vodka and mellowed with half-and-half. The use of coffee ice cubes keeps the drink perfectly chilled without watering it down, making it ideal for a relaxed evening or a special treat.
I first made this on a chilly weekend afternoon, and it quickly became a favorite for unwinding. The coffee ice cubes were a game changer, keeping every sip full-bodied and rich.
Ingredients
- Two cups brewed coffee: choose a strong, full-bodied roast for maximum flavor
- Two ounces Bailey's Irish Cream: provides creamy sweetness and a hint of whiskey
- Two ounces vanilla vodka: adds a subtle vanilla warmth and extra kick
- Six ounces half-and-half: balances the alcohol and coffee with creamy texture
Instructions
- Coffee Ice Cubes:
- Prepare two cups of black coffee without sugar and allow it to cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge. Pour the cooled coffee into ice cube trays. Make sure to fill each compartment evenly for uniform cubes. Place the trays in the freezer and let the coffee freeze solid over three to four hours or overnight if possible.
- Assemble the Drink:
- Retrieve the coffee ice cubes and distribute them evenly between two short cocktail glasses. This chilling method keeps the drink cold while maintaining the coffee's rich flavor as the ice slowly melts. Pour one ounce of Bailey's Irish Cream and one ounce of vanilla vodka into each glass. These two spirits blend seamlessly with the coffee for a creamy and smooth taste profile.
- Add the Half-and-Half:
- Measure and pour three ounces of half-and-half into each glass, watching as it mingles with the spirits and coffee ice cubes. The half-and-half softens the sharpness of the alcohol and coffee, producing a velvety, balanced finish. Gently stir the drink just enough to combine but not so much that the creamy layer disappears.
- Serve Immediately:
- Enjoy this cocktail fresh to appreciate the cool, creamy mix alongside the lingering coffee flavor. It's perfect for an after-dinner treat or an afternoon pick-me-up with friends.
The coffee ice cubes are my favorite part because they transform a typical creamy cocktail into something with a bold coffee punch that stays consistent from first sip to last. This drink reminds me of cozy evenings spent sharing stories over simple luxuries.
Storage tips
Coffee ice cubes can be made a day in advance and stored in a sealed container in the freezer to avoid absorbing other odors. The assembled cocktail is best enjoyed immediately as the creamy layer slowly melds with the coffee ice cubes.
Ingredient substitutions
Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half for a richer mouthfeel. Swap vanilla vodka with regular vodka and add a splash of vanilla extract if you want more intensity. You can also try flavored coffee to play with the base note.
Serving suggestions
Serve with a small plate of chocolate truffles or biscotti to complement the creamy, coffee flavors. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.
This creamy coffee cocktail is perfect for cozy gatherings and enjoying a smooth, chilled treat. Experiment by adjusting ratios to find your personal balance.
FAQs about Recipes
- → How long should the coffee cubes freeze?
Freeze the coffee in ice cube trays for about three to four hours until completely solid for best results.
- → Can I use a different type of liquor instead of vanilla vodka?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla vodka with other flavored vodkas or spirits of your choice to customize the flavor.
- → What is the purpose of using coffee ice cubes?
Coffee ice cubes chill the drink without diluting its rich coffee flavor as they melt.
- → Is half-and-half essential for this drink?
Half-and-half adds a smooth, creamy texture balancing out the strong coffee and spirits, but milk or cream can be substituted.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
You can freeze the coffee cubes ahead of time, but it’s best to mix the drink just before serving to maintain texture and flavor balance.