The Carajillo is a bold yet elegant coffee cocktail that blends the intensity of espresso with the smooth, vanilla-kissed warmth of Licor 43—a Spanish liqueur beloved in Mexico for its rich, dreamy flavor. Served hot or over ice, it’s as versatile as it is irresistible, perfect as a nightcap or a midday indulgence. With optional touches like cinnamon, tequila, or rum, the Carajillo invites personal flair while remaining effortlessly simple.
Step 1: Start by adding sweetened condensed milk to your brewed coffee—about 1 tablespoon per serving. No need to be exact; we’re not baking a cake here.
Step 2: Froth the mixture together. You can use a handheld frother or just give it a good whisk with some flair. You want it creamy with a light foam on top—like a café con leche that decided to dress up.
Step 3: Pour your Licor 43 into a large glass full of ice. Be generous. You're not here for a weak pour.
Step 4: Now, gently pour your frothy coffee-milk mixture over the ice and liquor. It’ll layer beautifully if you take your time.
Step 5: Give it a little swirl to mix the flavors. Think of it like waking up all the ingredients and telling them it’s showtime.
Step 6: Finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. It's a small move with big energy.
And just like that—bam—you’ve got yourself a Carajillo that’ll make you rethink every coffee cocktail you’ve ever had.
Tori from DIA Coffees is about to walk you through a Carajillo recipe that slaps. She’s using DIA’s Mucho Macho blend—a bold coffee that doesn’t just wake you up, it lifts you up.
This version is creamy, frothy, and just sweet enough to make you forget there’s alcohol in it (careful now). It’s perfect for impressing your friends, winding down after a long day, or just giving yourself a little ¡vámonos! boost when needed.