Cocktail Art
French Coffee
The French Coffee is a warm, comforting drink that combines the deep, oaky notes of brandy with the sweet, nutty aroma of amaretto liqueur, all balanced by hot coffee. It has a rich, slightly bitter flavor profile with a sweet finish. Perfect for cold evenings or as a warming after-dinner digestif, this simple built drink is traditionally served in a copper mug and topped with whipped cream.
- GlassCopper mug
- MethodBuild
- Time5 min
- Strength≈ 9% ABV
How to make a French Coffee
Build it in a copper mug. About 5 minutes.
- Pour the brandy and amaretto liqueur into a copper mug.
- Top up with the hot coffee.
- Gently stir the mixture with a bar spoon.
- Garnish the drink with whipped cream and grated almonds.
Bartender’s tips
- Use Cognac as an excellent substitute for brandy to elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Warm the copper mug with hot water before preparing the drink to keep it hot longer.
- Lightly whip the cream so it floats gracefully on top of the coffee instead of sinking.
You may also like
If you enjoy the warm, nutty flavors of French Coffee, you might also want to try these similar drinks: Boules, Almond Brother, God Father, and Alexander.
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★ 4.6 · 584 ratingsFrench Coffee questions
Which spirit is best for a French Coffee?
Brandy is the standard choice, but using Cognac adds a refined, complex depth to the drink.
How strong is a French Coffee?
This recipe has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of about 9%, making it a gentle, warming beverage.
Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?
Yes, you can substitute the brandy and amaretto with non-alcoholic spirits or almond-flavored syrup.