Irish Coffee with Whipped Cream (Hot or Iced Version)
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm drink that combines the richness of coffee with the smooth embrace of whiskey. When you pour a cup of Irish Coffee with Whipped Cream, you’re not just treating your taste buds; you’re indulging in a delightful experience. The aromatic notes of freshly brewed coffee mingle beautifully with the sweet undertones of maple syrup and the comforting warmth of Irish whiskey, creating a drink that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
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This recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for those lazy Sunday mornings or cozy evenings spent by the fireplace. You’ll find yourself sipping this drink slowly, savoring every drop, whether you choose the hot version to warm your hands or the iced one to cool off during warmer months. Trust me when I say that this is a drink you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for any occasion—celebratory brunches, intimate gatherings, or just a special treat for yourself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 10 minutes, it’s super easy to whip up.
- Irresistible Flavor: A delightful mix of coffee and whiskey, sweetened with maple syrup for a touch of indulgence.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Topped with a cloud of whipped cream, it’s sure to impress your guests.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or as a fun after-dinner drink.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for those looking for a dairy-free version by using vegan whipped cream.

Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ ounces Irish whiskey: This is the spirit that gives a classic Irish Coffee its distinctive character. I recommend Jameson for its smooth flavor.
- 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup: This natural sweetener adds a warm, earthy touch that pairs perfectly with the coffee. Adjust the amount to your sweetness preference!
- 6 ounces hot freshly brewed coffee: Aim for a good quality roast—your favorite coffee will enhance the overall taste of the drink.
- Whipped cream: A generous dollop on top is what makes this drink truly special. Ensure it’s lightly whipped for the best float!
How to Make Irish Coffee with Whipped Cream (Hot or Iced Version)
Mix Whiskey and Maple Syrup: Begin by pouring 1 ½ ounces of Irish whiskey and 1 teaspoon of maple syrup into a heat-safe mug. To kick off the process, add a splash of the hot freshly brewed coffee and stir until the syrup is fully dissolved.
Add Your Coffee: Now, pour the rest of the 6 ounces of hot coffee into the mug. It’s important to taste at this stage—if you like it sweeter, feel free to stir in a bit more maple syrup.
Top with Whipped Cream: The final touch is what transforms this drink! Gently top your warm coffee with whipped cream. If your whipped cream has soft peaks, spooning it over the drink can help it float perfectly. Serve immediately while it’s still warm—this is when it’s at its best!

Storing & Reheating
Irish Coffee is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you’re making a batch, store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheating can be done in the microwave for about 30 seconds, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. It’s best to whip up a fresh batch when you can.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoiding Irish Coffee Blunders: Ensure your coffee is hot enough when mixing; otherwise, it might dilute the whiskey’s flavor.
- Quality Matters: Use freshly brewed coffee from your favorite roast scale to lift the drink’s profile!
- Customize Your Cream: If you’re dairy-free, consider coconut cream or a plant-based whipped topping for an equally delightful experience.
- Sweetness Is Personal: Adjust the maple syrup to your taste—start small and taste as you go!
There’s something magical about creating this Irish Coffee that feels both luxurious and approachable. Whether you serve it hot or select the iced version for summer enjoyment, each sip is a sweet embrace of flavor. It’s always fun to experiment with various flavors and toppings. Why not add a little cocoa powder or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of your whipped cream for an extra kick?
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this Irish Coffee ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can brew your coffee in advance and mix it with whiskey and maple syrup just before serving. Avoid adding whipped cream until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
No worries! You can substitute with sugar, brown sugar, or honey. Just remember to adjust the amount based on how sweet you like your drink.
How can I make an iced version?
Simply brew your coffee, let it cool, and pour it over ice instead of serving it warm. Follow the same steps for whiskey and syrup, and top with whipped cream for a refreshing twist.
Can I replace the whiskey with something else?
If whiskey isn’t your thing, you could try a coffee liqueur, like Kahlúa, for a sweeter, dessert-like drink. Just remember that it will change the flavor profile significantly!
Introduce this delightful blend of warmth and sweetness into your routine, and let every sip remind you that life’s simple pleasures are often the most delicious. Enjoy this special drink, whether you’re cozied up at home or sharing a moment with friends.
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📖 Recipe Card

Irish Coffee with Whipped Cream (Hot or Iced Version)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Hot or Iced
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Enjoy the delightful taste of Irish Coffee with Whipped Cream, made with smooth whiskey and sweet maple syrup. This simple drink is perfect for warming up on chilly evenings or for a refreshing iced treat.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces irish whiskey (that’s 3 tablespoons/i used jameson)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup, to taste
- 6 ounces hot freshly brewed coffee (that’s ¾ cup/use your favorite roast)
- whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
- Pour the whiskey and 1 teaspoon maple syrup into a heat-safe mug.
- Add a splash of the coffee and stir until the maple syrup dissolves.
- Pour in the remaining coffee, taste, and stir in more maple syrup for added sweetness if desired.
- Top with whipped cream, pouring it slowly over a spoon to help it float on the coffee. Serve warm!
Notes
For a stronger flavor, use your favorite Irish whiskey.
Adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your sweetness preference.
Serve immediately for the best experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
