Hazelnut Irish Coffee Cocktail Recipe

When I’m craving something warm, smooth, and just a bit sweet, I always end up making my Hazelnut Irish Coffee Cocktail. It’s basically the classic Irish coffee, but with a nutty spin that feels just right for a cozy night in—or honestly, even for St. Patrick’s Day if you’re feeling festive.

This drink brings together hot coffee, Irish whiskey, hazelnut liqueur, and a little cream. It’s simple but feels like a treat, and there’s nothing fussy about it.

I love that I can whip this up at home with just a handful of ingredients and some basic tools. You don’t need to be a pro bartender to get it right, either.

The flavors come out rich, but not too heavy. Hazelnut brings a gentle sweetness that just works with the bold coffee and mellow whiskey.

If you’re curious about what to expect, I’ve included tasting notes and step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re making it for a holiday or just want to try something new after dinner, this cocktail’s a solid pick.

Hazelnut Irish Coffee Cocktail Recipe

I like this cocktail because it mixes the nutty sweetness of hazelnut with the smoothness of Irish whiskey and coffee. With the right tools and a bit of care, it’s super easy to make at home.

Equipment

• Coffee maker or espresso machine – I brew a strong base with this.
• Cocktail shaker – Helps the liqueurs mix evenly.
• Milk frother or whisk – I whip the cream until it’s thick but still pourable.
• Heatproof glass or mug – I prefer a clear glass so I can see those lovely layers.
• Measuring jigger – Keeps my pours on point.
• Bar spoon – I use it to float the cream gently on top.
• Nutmeg grater – Fresh nutmeg as garnish just smells amazing.

Having the right tools makes it easier to pull off a good-looking drink. Even something simple like a frother or a shaker changes the texture and look.

Ingredients

• 1 cup hot brewed coffee or espresso
• 1 oz Jameson Irish whiskey (or any Irish whiskey you like)
• 1 oz Frangelico hazelnut liqueur
• 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream (or another Irish cream)
• ½ oz coffee liqueur (optional, if you want more coffee flavor)
• 1 tsp sugar (white or brown, up to you)
• Fresh whipped cream (lightly whipped, not stiff)
• Freshly grated nutmeg or crushed hazelnut for garnish

I’ll usually go for hot espresso if I want a bolder kick, but regular coffee works fine. The combo of whiskey, hazelnut liqueur, and Baileys gives this drink its signature smooth, nutty sweetness.

Instructions

• Brew your hot coffee or espresso and pour it into a heatproof glass.
• Stir in the sugar until it dissolves.
• Add Irish whiskey, Frangelico, and Baileys.
• If you’re adding coffee liqueur, toss it in now.
• Stir everything gently with a bar spoon.
• Whip the cream lightly with a frother or whisk—just until soft peaks form.
• Pour the cream slowly over the back of a spoon so it floats on top.
• Garnish with grated nutmeg or a bit of crushed hazelnut.

I always take my time pouring the cream, letting it float on top for that classic layered look. It makes the first sip extra creamy.

Notes

I usually stick with Jameson because it’s smooth, but honestly, any decent Irish whiskey will do. Frangelico brings in that warm hazelnut flavor, which is just so good with coffee.

Sometimes I’ll add a splash more Baileys or a pinch of brown sugar if I’m in the mood for something sweeter. If I want the coffee to stand out, I’ll add a bit of coffee liqueur.

Keep the whipped cream soft—if it’s too stiff, it just plops instead of floating. Not ideal.

Once in a while, I’ll shave some chocolate or sprinkle toasted hazelnuts on top. Nutmeg gives a gentle spice that balances everything out.

Tasting Notes

When I take the first sip, I get this warm mix of coffee and whiskey, mellowed out by sweet hazelnut. That nutty flavor just melts right into the bold coffee, and honestly, it feels like a comforting nutty coffee cocktail.

The cream on top gives a silky layer that softens the strong coffee base. Somehow, it turns the drink into a creamy cocktail but never feels too heavy.

I love how every sip mixes the richness of cream with the warmth from the coffee and whiskey underneath. There’s something about that combo that just works.

As an after-dinner drink, it feels relaxing and satisfying. The hazelnut adds a gentle sweetness, so I never find myself reaching for extra sugar.

It reminds me of a twist on classic Irish coffee, only the flavor comes across softer and a bit rounder.

I think this coffee cocktail fits perfectly when I want something cozy, but still a little bit special. It’s smooth enough to sip slowly, and the flavors stay balanced all the way through.