The Dead Rabbit Irish Coffee takes the classic Irish Coffee and elevates it with a rich, complex flavor. This cocktail adds a hint of Irish whiskey, along with the unique twist of dark brown sugar and a touch of cinnamon, giving it a heartier, more flavorful finish. Inspired by the famed New York City bar The Dead Rabbit, this drink is perfect for cold nights and gatherings with friends, blending whiskey, coffee, and cream in the most delicious way.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz Irish whiskey (preferably a smooth, robust variety like Jameson or Bushmills)
- 1 oz brown sugar syrup (dark brown sugar and water)
- 6 oz freshly brewed strong coffee (medium or dark roast works well)
- 1/4 oz Irish whiskey (for floating)
- Freshly whipped cream (for topping)
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Brown Sugar Syrup:
Combine equal parts dark brown sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool slightly before using. (You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for future use.) - Mix the Coffee and Whiskey:
In a pre-warmed coffee mug, combine the Irish whiskey and brown sugar syrup. Stir well to dissolve the syrup. - Add Coffee:
Pour in the freshly brewed coffee, stirring to combine everything well. - Float the Whiskey:
Gently float the additional 1/4 oz Irish whiskey on top of the coffee. You can do this by pouring the whiskey over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect. - Top with Cream:
Lightly whip the cream until it’s thick but still pourable. Spoon it over the back of a spoon so that it floats on top of the coffee. - Garnish:
Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top of the whipped cream for an added touch of warmth and spice. - Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy the layers of flavor with each sip, starting from the rich coffee, through the smooth cream, and ending with the subtle kick of whiskey.
Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Variations
- Dead Rabbit Iced Coffee: For a chilled version, serve the ingredients over ice, skip the whiskey float, and top with whipped cream.
- Spiced Dead Rabbit Coffee: Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the brown sugar syrup for an extra depth of flavor.
- Baileys Irish Coffee: Add a splash of Baileys Irish Cream instead of the whipped cream for a creamy twist.
FAQs
What makes the Dead Rabbit Irish Coffee different from a regular Irish Coffee?
The Dead Rabbit version uses a dark brown sugar syrup for a richer sweetness and floats the whiskey on top, creating a layered effect that enhances the drinking experience.
Can I make this in advance?
It’s best to prepare the components individually ahead of time and assemble the cocktail fresh when serving. The whipped cream and whiskey float should be added just before drinking.
What type of whiskey is best for this cocktail?
A good-quality Irish whiskey, like Jameson or Bushmills, works well. Choose one with a smooth finish that won’t overpower the other flavors.
The Dead Rabbit Irish Coffee
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Category: cocktail
Description
The Dead Rabbit Irish Coffee takes the classic Irish Coffee and elevates it with a rich, complex flavor. This cocktail adds a hint of Irish whiskey, along with the unique twist of dark brown sugar and a touch of cinnamon, giving it a heartier, more flavorful finish. Inspired by the famed New York City bar The Dead Rabbit, this drink is perfect for cold nights and gatherings with friends, blending whiskey, coffee, and cream in the most delicious way.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz Irish whiskey (preferably a smooth, robust variety like Jameson or Bushmills)
- 1 oz brown sugar syrup (dark brown sugar and water)
- 6 oz freshly brewed strong coffee (medium or dark roast works well)
- 1/4 oz Irish whiskey (for floating)
- Freshly whipped cream (for topping)
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brown Sugar Syrup:
Combine equal parts dark brown sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool slightly before using. (You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for future use.) - Mix the Coffee and Whiskey:
In a pre-warmed coffee mug, combine the Irish whiskey and brown sugar syrup. Stir well to dissolve the syrup. - Add Coffee:
Pour in the freshly brewed coffee, stirring to combine everything well. - Float the Whiskey:
Gently float the additional 1/4 oz Irish whiskey on top of the coffee. You can do this by pouring the whiskey over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect. - Top with Cream:
Lightly whip the cream until it’s thick but still pourable. Spoon it over the back of a spoon so that it floats on top of the coffee. - Garnish:
Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top of the whipped cream for an added touch of warmth and spice.
Notes
- Dead Rabbit Iced Coffee: For a chilled version, serve the ingredients over ice, skip the whiskey float, and top with whipped cream.
- Spiced Dead Rabbit Coffee: Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the brown sugar syrup for an extra depth of flavor.
- Baileys Irish Coffee: Add a splash of Baileys Irish Cream instead of the whipped cream for a creamy twist.