Wrap Up In The Warmth Of National Irish Coffee Day And Enjoy The Comfort

Next National Irish Coffee Day Saturday, 25 January 2025

National Irish Coffee Day is observed every year on January 25 to celebrate the beloved cocktail made with Irish whiskey, coffee, sugar and topped with whipped cream.

The cozy beverage has become a winter staple for cocktail enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike, whether they are sipping it as a brunch drink, or a nightcap.

Irish coffee is a delectable fusion of warmth, and caffeine, making it a perfect drink to get back to our normal lives after the festivities.

Origin of Irish Coffee

The birth of Irish coffee dates back to the 1940s at Foynes Airbase in Ireland, nearby Shannon Airport. A chef there, Joe Sheridan, started making this drink for travelers to get them to warm up and unwind after long and cold flights.

He made hot coffee, added Irish whiskey and topped it with whipped cream making this into a comforting and smooth treat eventually. Someone asked if it was Brazilian coffee, to which he responded “No, it is Irish coffee” and the name stuck ever since.

An American travel writer, Stanton Delaplane, tried the drink at Shannon Airport in the early 1950s and worked with the Buena Vista Café in San Francisco to recreate the recipe. After many failed attempts, they got it right and since then Irish coffee became a popular drink across the globe. It also becomes an iconic and famous cocktail in Buena Vista.

How to Make Classic Irish Coffee

Ingredients:

Freshly brewed hot coffee
1–2 teaspoons of sugar (brown sugar works well for added richness, optional)
1 ½ ounces of Irish whiskey
Heavy cream (lightly whipped)

Instructions:

Brew a cup of fresh hot coffee and pour it into a warm glass or mug.
Stir in the sugar until fully dissolved.
Add the Irish whiskey and give it a quick stir.
Carefully pour the lightly whipped cream over the back of a spoon so it floats on top. Enjoy without stirring!

Celebrate National Irish Coffee Day

National Irish Coffee Day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a cozy Irish classic with a twist.

Start by experimenting with new recipes, add flavored syrups, swap in espresso for a bolder taste, or try dairy-free whipped cream for a lighter option. Hosting a tasting party with friends can add to the fun, letting everyone sample different Irish whiskeys and coffee blends to find their favorite.

For an authentic experience, visit a local Irish pub or café to savor their version of Irish coffee and soak up the lively atmosphere. To add a cultural touch, explore Irish music, folklore, or classic Irish films, bringing a deeper connection to the celebration.