Maple Bourbon Coffee Cocktail Recipe

I’m always up for trying new drinks, especially when they take familiar flavors and shake things up a bit. This Maple Bourbon Coffee Cocktail recipe is a super simple way to make a bourbon cocktail that feels a little fancy, and honestly, it’s a dream if you love dessert cocktails.

You get that rich bourbon flavor, a hit of sweet maple syrup, and the boldness of coffee all at once. It’s smooth, cozy, and sort of feels like a warm hug in a glass.

Whenever I want to wow friends or just treat myself to something nice at home, I end up making this cocktail. It’s easy but tastes like something you’d order at a craft cocktail bar.

If you love coffee and want a sweet, slightly boozy twist, you should probably give this a try.

Maple Bourbon Coffee Cocktail Recipe

What I really like about this drink is how the deep coffee flavor, maple syrup’s sweetness, and bourbon’s warmth all come together. You don’t need anything fancy—just a few basics and you’re set.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker: I use this to mix and chill everything fast.
• Coffee maker or espresso machine: For brewing up strong coffee or espresso.
• Jigger or measuring spoon: To get the bourbon, maple syrup, and coffee liqueur just right.
• Martini glass: I usually pour into a chilled martini glass—it just looks good.
• Strainer: Helps when pouring from the shaker, especially if there’s ice.
• Grater: For a little nutmeg on top at the end.
• Spoon: Handy if you’d rather stir than shake.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon: I tend to pick a bourbon that’s not overly sweet.
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (something like Kahlúa or Tia Maria)
• 1 oz maple syrup: Go for pure maple syrup if you can swing it.
• 2 oz strong coffee or cold brew coffee: Fresh-brewed or cold brew, just let it cool down first.
• Ice cubes: Needed for shaking and chilling.
• Freshly grated nutmeg: Totally optional, but great for garnish.
• Coffee beans: Toss a couple on top if you’re feeling fancy.

Instructions

• Toss some ice cubes into your cocktail shaker.
• Pour in the bourbon, coffee liqueur, maple syrup, and coffee (or espresso/cold brew).
• Shake it all up for about 10-15 seconds until it’s nice and cold.
• Strain into a chilled martini glass.
• If you want, sprinkle a little grated nutmeg on top and add a couple of coffee beans.
• Serve immediately—this one’s best cold.

Notes

Sometimes I’ll use fresh espresso if I’m in the mood for a stronger kick. Cold brew is great too, especially if you want a smoother finish.

The maple syrup is sweet enough, so there’s no need for sugar. Coffee liqueur just adds more richness. Every now and then, I’ll swap out the bourbon for whiskey—why not?

Serving it in a martini glass just makes it feel a bit more special. I usually chill the glass in the fridge first, if I remember. A dash of nutmeg on top smells amazing. If you prefer things less sweet, just cut back on the maple syrup a little.

Tasting Notes

When I take my first sip, there’s this warm, inviting aroma that hits me right away. The scent of fresh coffee mixes with these sweet, almost sticky notes of maple syrup.

There’s a little hint of oak from the bourbon, too. It makes the whole thing smell pretty cozy—kind of comforting, honestly.

The taste starts off smooth and mellow. I like how the maple syrup brings in a gentle sweetness, but it doesn’t go overboard or get too sugary.

The bourbon adds this soft warmth and a mild smoky note. It blends in really well with the coffee, almost like they’re meant to be together.

As I keep sipping, I start to notice some nutty and caramel touches sneaking in. The finish is clean, and there’s this lingering coffee aroma with just a faint maple aftertaste that sticks around.

The drink isn’t heavy—definitely not bitter, either. It walks this nice line between the strong coffee flavor and those softer, sweeter notes from the maple and bourbon.

If I throw in a splash of milk or cream, there’s a creamy mouthfeel that’s honestly pretty satisfying.

Each sip feels comforting and simple, just easy to enjoy. The flavors stay gentle, and nothing really tries to steal the spotlight.