Carajillo Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to This Classic Coffee Cocktail

A Carajillo is more than just a coffee cocktail—it’s a blend of rich flavors, cultural heritage, and a smooth balance of caffeine and alcohol. Whether you prefer the Spanish hot version or the Mexican iced Carajillo, this drink is a must-try for coffee lovers.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• The origins and history of Carajillo
• Step-by-step instructions for making it at home
• The best ingredients and pairings
• Unique variations and serving tips

Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to Carajillo!

What is a Carajillo Recipe?

A Carajillo is a coffee-based cocktail made with espresso and Licor 43, a Spanish liqueur with sweet vanilla and citrus notes. While its roots trace back to Spain, it has gained massive popularity in Mexico, where it’s often shaken and served over ice.

This cocktail is a perfect balance of bold coffee and smooth, aromatic liqueur, making it a popular after-dinner drink or a delightful treat any time of the day.

The Origins and History of Carajillo

The Carajillo recipe has a long history, dating back to Spanish colonial times. Soldiers in Cuba and Spain mixed coffee with spirits for courage (coraje in Spanish), which may have led to the name Carajillo.

Spanish vs. Mexican Carajillo – Key Differences

• Spanish Carajillo: Served hot, often with brandy or rum instead of Licor 43.
• Mexican Carajillo: Served iced and shaken, exclusively with Licor 43, creating a frothy, smooth texture.

Each version has its unique charm, but the Mexican Carajillo Recipe has become a modern favorite worldwide.

Why You Should Try a Carajillo Recipe

The Unique Flavor Profile

• Bold espresso flavor with sweet vanilla-citrus notes from Licor 43.
• Smooth, slightly creamy texture when shaken with ice.
• Perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.

Health Benefits of Coffee and Liqueurs

• Coffee: Rich in antioxidants and provides a natural energy boost.
• Licor 43: Contains natural botanicals, vanilla, and citrus, adding warmth and complexity.

Essential Ingredients for a Traditional Carajillo

The Best Coffee Beans for Carajillo Recipe

• Use dark-roast espresso for a bold, rich taste.
• Cold brew works well for a milder, less acidic version.

Choosing the Right Licor 43 or Other Liqueurs

• Licor 43 is the traditional choice, offering a sweet, spiced, and citrusy profile.
• Alternatives: Kahlúa, Grand Marnier, or vanilla-infused whiskey.

Alternative Ingredients for Unique Twists

• Add a splash of rum, tequila, or brandy for extra complexity.
• Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an aromatic twist.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Carajillo Recipe

1. Spanish-Style Carajillo (Hot Version)

This version is the traditional way of making Carajillo in Spain. It is often served as a digestif after a meal, warming the senses with its deep coffee and liqueur combination.

Instructions:

1. Brew the Espresso
   • Prepare a fresh shot of espresso using a coffee machine, French press, or stovetop moka pot.
   • If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use strong black coffee as an alternative.
2. Prepare the Serving Glass
   • Use a heatproof glass or a small rocks glass.
   • Pre-warm the glass by rinsing it with hot water to keep the drink warm for longer.
3. Add the Licor 43
   • Pour 1.5 oz of Licor 43 into the glass.
   • Some variations use other liqueurs like brandy, rum, or whiskey, but Licor 43 is the most popular option.
4. Combine and Stir
   • Slowly pour the hot espresso over the Licor 43.
   • Stir gently to blend the flavors while maintaining the layered effect.
5. Garnish and Serve(Optional but recommended)
   • To enhance the aroma, add a twist of orange peel or a light sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
   • Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

2. Mexican-Style Carajillo (Iced & Shaken Version)

The Mexican Carajillo is the most popular version today, thanks to its smooth, frothy texture and refreshing quality. This version is commonly served in high-end Mexican restaurants and bars as a sophisticated yet easy-to-make coffee cocktail.

Instructions:

1. Brew the Espresso
   • Prepare a fresh shot of espresso or 2 oz of strong coffee.
   • Let it cool slightly to avoid excessive dilution when shaken with ice.
2. Prepare a Cocktail Shaker
   • Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
   • The ice helps chill the drink while also creating a smooth, frothy texture.
3. Add the Ingredients
   • Pour 1.5 oz of Licor 43 into the shaker over the ice.
   • Add the freshly brewed espresso on top.
4. Shake Vigorously
   • Secure the lid and shake for at least 15 seconds.
   • This step is crucial—the vigorous shaking aerates the drink, creating a creamy, foamy layer on top.
5. Strain and Serve
   • Strain the shaken Carajillo into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
   • The foamy layer should settle on top, giving it a smooth, velvety finish.
6. Garnish for Extra Elegance(Optional but enhances presentation and aroma)
   • Place an orange peel over the rim of the glass.
   • Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicy touch.
   • For a modern twist, add a coffee bean or two on top of the froth.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Carajillo

To ensure a flawless Carajillo every time, follow these expert tips:

✔ Use High-Quality Espresso – The coffee should be bold, rich, and freshly brewed. Avoid weak or stale coffee, as it will dilute the flavors.

✔ Shake Well for the Iced Version – The key to the Mexican Carajillo’s signature frothy texture is shaking vigorously for at least 15 seconds.

✔ Adjust Sweetness & Strength – If you prefer a stronger drink, add an extra shot of espresso. For a sweeter taste, increase the Licor 43 ratio.

✔ Serve Immediately – The hot version should be enjoyed right away, while the iced version should be strained into fresh ice to prevent excessive dilution.

✔ Experiment with Flavors – Try adding a splash of rum or tequila for a boozy twist, or infuse it with cinnamon sticks for a warm, spiced aroma.

Popular Variations of Carajillo Recipe

Iced Carajillo

• The classic Mexican version, shaken with ice for a cold and smooth finish.

Spiced Carajillo

• Infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, or star anise for extra depth.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Carajillo

• Substitute Licor 43 with a plant-based vanilla liqueur.
• Use cold brew instead of espresso for a less acidic taste.

Carajillo Pairings: What to Serve It With

Best Desserts to Complement Carajillo

• Crème Brûlée – The caramelized sugar and creamy custard enhance the vanilla notes in Carajillo.
• Dark Chocolate – Balances the sweetness of Licor 43 with deep cocoa flavors.
• Chick-fil-A Cookies – A warm, chewy companion for your coffee cocktail.

Savory Pairings for a Bold Experience

• Spanish Tapas – Olives, Manchego cheese, and chorizo.
• Spiced Nuts – Complements the citrus and vanilla notes in Licor 43.

How Carajillo Compares to Other Coffee Cocktails

Carajillo vs. Espresso Martini

• Carajillo: Espresso + Licor 43 (simple, aromatic, and slightly sweet).
• Espresso Martini: Espresso + Vodka + Coffee Liqueur (stronger and sweeter).

Carajillo vs. Irish Coffee

• Carajillo: Uses Licor 43, creating a smoother, vanilla-citrus taste.
• Irish Coffee: Made with whiskey and cream, giving it a richer, boozy profile.

The Best Occasions for Enjoying a Carajillo

Social Gatherings

• A Carajillo Recipe is a great conversation starter at parties and dinner events.

After-Dinner Digestif

• Perfect for winding down after a meal, especially with desserts.

Holiday and Seasonal Enjoyment

• Add warm spices for a cozy winter drink.
• Serve iced Carajillo for a refreshing summer cocktail.

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Best Carajillo

Enhancing the Aroma and Flavor

• Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best aroma.
• Warm the Licor 43 slightly to release its aromatic notes.

Adjusting the Sweetness and Strength

• For a sweeter Carajillo recipe, increase the Licor 43 ratio.
• To make it stronger, use a double shot of espresso.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Cocktail

• Serve in a short rocks glass with an orange peel garnish.
• Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg for an elegant touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Carajillo

Even though Carajillo recipe is a simple cocktail, a few common mistakes can ruin its perfect balance:

1. Using Low-Quality Coffee

• Poor-quality coffee or weak espresso diminishes the richness of the drink.
• Always use freshly brewed espresso or high-quality cold brew.

2. Not Shaking the Iced Version Properly

• A Mexican-style Carajillo needs to be shaken vigorously to create its signature frothy texture.
• Skipping this step results in a flat and unbalanced drink.

3. Overpouring Licor 43

• Too much Licor 43 can overpower the espresso, making the drink too sweet.
• The perfect ratio is 1:1 or 2:1 (espresso to Licor 43).

4. Serving at the Wrong Temperature

• Hot Carajillo: Serve immediately after mixing.
• Iced Carajillo: Use fresh ice and shake thoroughly.

5. Ignoring the Presentation

Garnish with an orange peel or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added aroma.

Use a short rocks glass for an elegant presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Carajillo Recipe

What is Carajillo made of?

A Carajillo recipe is a simple yet flavorful coffee cocktail made with just two main ingredients:

• Espresso or strong coffee – Provides a bold and rich coffee base.
• Licor 43 – A Spanish liqueur known for its vanilla, citrus, and spice notes.

Some variations may include ice, sugar, cinnamon, or a splash of other spirits like rum or brandy for added complexity.

What is the difference between Mexican and Spanish Carajillo?

The key differences between Mexican and Spanish Carajillo are:

• Mexican Carajillo
  • Served cold and shaken with ice.
  • Always made with Licor 43, creating a smooth, frothy texture.
  • Popular in Mexico City’s cocktail bars and fine dining restaurants.
• Spanish Carajillo
  • Served hot and often prepared by simply mixing coffee with spirits.
  • Can be made with various liqueurs such as rum, brandy, or whisky.
  • Enjoyed as a traditional after-meal digestif.

Both versions offer a delightful balance of bold coffee and warm liqueur, but the Mexican Carajillo has gained international popularity due to its refreshing and velvety texture.

How to make Carajillo?

Making a Carajillo recipe is quick and easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Spanish-Style (Hot Carajillo)

1. Brew a shot of espresso or strong coffee.
2. Pour Licor 43 into a heatproof glass.
3. Add the hot espresso and stir gently.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Mexican-Style (Iced Carajillo – Shaken)

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Pour in Licor 43 and freshly brewed espresso.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until frothy.
4. Strain into a glass with fresh ice.
5. Enjoy the smooth, chilled, and foamy texture!

For added flavor, some people garnish their Carajillo with an orange peel, cinnamon, or nutmeg.

What’s the difference between Carajillo and Espresso Martini?

While both Carajillo and Espresso Martini are coffee-based cocktails, they differ in ingredients and preparation:

Feature	Carajillo	Espresso Martini
Base Ingredients	Espresso + Licor 43	Espresso + Vodka + Coffee Liqueur
Alcohol Type	Licor 43 (vanilla-citrus liqueur)	Vodka & Coffee Liqueur (Kahlúa)
Texture	Smooth & aromatic, can be hot or cold	Frothy, rich, and creamy
Sweetness Level	Naturally sweet from Licor 43	Sweeter due to sugar syrup & coffee liqueur
Serving Style	Served in a rocks glass (hot or cold)	Served in a martini glass (always cold)

If you prefer a stronger, vodka-based cocktail, an Espresso Martini is the way to go. But if you enjoy a smoother, naturally sweet coffee drink, a Carajillo is the perfect choice!

Final Thoughts

A Carajillo Recipe is a bold yet smooth coffee cocktail that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you prefer the hot Spanish-style version or the frothy, iced Mexican Carajillo, this drink is perfect for any occasion.

Try pairing it with Crème Brûlée or Chick-fil-A Cookies for the ultimate indulgence!

Have you tried a Carajillo Recipe? Let us know your favorite way to enjoy it! 🍸☕