📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Whisky
Alcohol 20%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 5g
Prep time 3 minutes
Dreaming of the perfect Coffee Manhattan? This cocktail blends the rich, bold flavor of coffee with the classic sophistication of a Manhattan. In this article, we’ll explore its history, taste, interesting facts, and how to make it. Ready to dive in? ⬇️
History
The Coffee Manhattan was created as a twist on the traditional Manhattan cocktail, incorporating coffee for an extra layer of depth. It became popular in speakeasies during the Prohibition era. Today, it’s a beloved choice for those who enjoy coffee and whiskey.
- The name “Coffee Manhattan” comes from its blend of coffee and the classic Manhattan cocktail.
- It was first popularized in New York City.
- Its rise in popularity coincided with the coffee culture boom in the early 2000s.
The taste of a Coffee Manhattan?
The Coffee Manhattan tastes like a rich, smooth blend of coffee and whiskey, with a hint of sweetness from the vermouth. It’s both bold and balanced, making it a delightful drink for coffee lovers.
I personally love drinking Coffee Manhattans because they’re incredibly rich and flavorful.
Interesting facts about Coffee Manhattan
- It combines the best of both worlds: coffee and whiskey.
- It’s often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink.
- Some variations use cold brew coffee for a smoother taste.
Ingredients 📃
- Bourbon: 2 oz (60 ml)
- Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Cold Brew Coffee: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Angostura Bitters: 2 dashes
- Orange Peel: For garnish
- Ice: As needed
A Coffee Manhattan is best served in a **coupe glass** because it allows the aromas to be concentrated, enhancing the drinking experience. An alternative could be a **rocks glass** for a more casual presentation.
Recipe. How to make Coffee Manhattan 🍹
- Fill a mixing glass with *ice*.
- Add *2 oz (60 ml) Bourbon*, *1 oz (30 ml) Sweet Vermouth*, *1 oz (30 ml) Cold Brew Coffee*, and *2 dashes Angostura Bitters*.
- Stir well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled *coupe glass*.
- Garnish with an *orange peel*.
Coffee Manhattans can be high in sugar and calories. For a healthier version, use natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup and opt for low-calorie mixers.
Food Pairings
Certain foods complement the flavors of a Coffee Manhattan perfectly.
Dark Chocolate
The rich, bittersweet taste of dark chocolate enhances the coffee and whiskey notes in the cocktail.
Cheese Platter
A variety of cheeses, especially sharp ones, pair well with the robust flavors of the Coffee Manhattan.
Grilled Meats
The smoky, savory flavors of grilled meats balance the sweetness and depth of the cocktail.
I really enjoy the taste of Coffee Manhattans—the rich coffee and smooth whiskey make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- *Use freshly brewed* cold brew coffee for the best flavor.
- *Balance the sweetness* with the right amount of vermouth.
- *Garnish thoughtfully* to add an extra layer of aroma.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Coffee Manhattan, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Coffee Manhattan
- Bourbon: Can be replaced with rye whiskey for a spicier flavor.
- Cold Brew Coffee: Can be swapped with espresso for a stronger coffee taste.
- Sweet Vermouth: Can be substituted with dry vermouth for a less sweet profile.
Coffee Manhattan Variations
Irish Coffee Manhattan
- Ingredients: Irish whiskey, cold brew coffee, sweet vermouth, bitters.
- Recipe: Follow the same steps as a Coffee Manhattan, using Irish whiskey instead of bourbon.
Mocha Manhattan
- Ingredients: Bourbon, cold brew coffee, chocolate liqueur, bitters.
- Recipe: Replace sweet vermouth with chocolate liqueur in the Coffee Manhattan recipe.
Spiced Coffee Manhattan
- Ingredients: Bourbon, spiced coffee, sweet vermouth, bitters.
- Recipe: Use spiced coffee instead of cold brew coffee in the Coffee Manhattan recipe.
For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the bourbon and vermouth with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative and use the same amounts of coffee and bitters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use decaf coffee?
Absolutely! Decaf coffee works just as well if you want to avoid caffeine.
What’s the best type of whiskey for this cocktail?
Bourbon is a popular choice, but rye whiskey can add a spicier kick.
Can I make this cocktail in advance?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you must, chill it in the fridge and stir before serving.
What can I use to sweeten the cocktail naturally?
Try honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener.
Is there a way to make it less strong?
You can reduce the amount of whiskey and add more coffee for a milder drink.
Can I garnish with something other than orange peel?
Yes, a cherry or a twist of lemon can also make a great garnish.
