How to prepare a carajillo: ingredients, recipe and tips

Have you heard about carajillo? This classic drink combines the best of coffee with a touch of liquor. Learning how to prepare a carajillo is easy. Here we tell you all about its origin, its ingredients and the step-by-step instructions so you can enjoy it at home.

What is a carajillo and how is it prepared ?

Carajillo is a traditional drink that combines two much-loved ingredients that are also used in Irish coffee : coffee and liqueur. The origin of this combination has its roots in both Spanish and Latin American culture. There are many stories about the reasons that led to the creation of this drink.

Some say it originated during the Cuban Revolution, when soldiers mixed coffee with brandy to give themselves "courage" before battle. In Spain, it is said that it was the transporters of Barcelona, ​​who, not having time to drink coffee and liquor separately, mixed them together saying: “Que ara quillo”, meaning “I'm leaving now”.

Nowadays, there are different versions of carajillo. For example, it can be prepared with:

How to prepare a carajillo with 4 basic ingredients

The carajillo is a flexible drink that allows for variations according to your preferences. However, the classic version requires very few ingredients:

  1. Espresso: The first thing you need to consider when learning how to make a carajillo is the quality of the espresso. It should be a short, strong and aromatic espresso. Although you can also opt for other types of coffee , espresso concentrates the flavor ideally. If you have a machine at home, use it to get an intense coffee. If not, a French press coffee can also work.
  2. Liqueur : This is where you can put your spin on it. Different liqueurs bring different nuances, so you can experiment until you find the one you like best. If you prefer a sweeter option, choose a coffee liqueur. If you're looking for a more robust touch, choose rum or whiskey.
  3. Sugar (optional): While not all carajillos have sugar, a touch of sweetness can balance the intensity of the liquor and coffee. Some prefer to mix the sugar with the liquor before adding the coffee, while others add it directly to the drink.
  4. Ice (optional): The classic carajillo is served hot, but you can also enjoy an iced version. In this case, simply add ice to the glass for a refreshing carajillo. This option is ideal for iced coffee lovers.

Step by step to know how to prepare a carajillo

Once you have the ingredients ready, start with the practical part. Below, we give you a simple step-by-step guide to help you clear up any doubts about how to prepare a carajillo .

Heat the liquor

The key to a good carajillo is to warm up the liquor before mixing it with the coffee. Pour about 30 ml (or 1 oz) of your chosen liquor into a heat-resistant glass and warm it up a bit. How do you do this? There are several options.

Put it in a pot and heat it on the stove. Note that it doesn't need to boil, it just needs to be hot. You can also heat it for 30 seconds in the microwave. Some people prefer to add a little sugar and flambé it to achieve a special smokiness and caramelization.

Prepare the espresso

While the liqueur is brewing, prepare a shot of espresso. Ideally, you should use a short espresso, about 30ml, that has body and character to balance the strength of the liqueur. Make sure the Americano is freshly brewed and piping hot.

Pour the coffee over the liquor

Now it's time for the mixing. If you want the carajillo to look more interesting, slowly pour the coffee over the liqueur to create a layered effect. This technique is especially attractive in a clear glass. If you prefer a homogeneous taste, mix both ingredients together with a spoon.

Add sugar to taste

This step is not mandatory when learning how to prepare a carajillo. But, if you like to add sweetness to your coffee, this is the time to do it. Take some sugar to your liking and mix it in so that it dissolves while the carajillo is hot.

Now that you know how to prepare a carajillo, serve and enjoy.

That's it! By now your drink will be perfect to enjoy. Of course, it may take a little practice to achieve the nuances of your preference. You can vary a few details until you find the best version.

Recommended pairings for carajillo

Carajillo is a versatile drink, so enjoy it alone or with a side dish. If you like to experiment and mix flavors, here are some options:

  • Chocolate desserts: The deep flavor of coffee and liqueur pairs perfectly with chocolate-based desserts. A brownie or chocolate mousse are delicious options to enjoy with a carajillo.
  • Strong cheeses: If you prefer something salty, carajillo goes very well with intense cheeses such as Roquefort or Camembert. The intensity of the coffee and the liqueur will balance the powerful flavours of these cheeses.
  • Traditional sweets : Cookies, almond biscuits or nougat are classic options that also work well with carajillo, adding a note of sweetness and texture.
  • Nuts and dried fruit : another ideal accompaniment to carajillo is walnuts, almonds or hazelnuts. These add a crunchy touch and complement the flavours of the drink.

How to prepare a carajillo in other versions

If you're not satisfied with just knowing how to prepare a carajillo and want to try different versions, there are many alternatives. Some innovative recipes include adding chocolate, which can be bitter or sweet. If you want to go further, it's also a good idea to try white chocolate. On the other hand, you can also add a little orange zest. This will give it a citrus and aromatic touch, balancing the intensity of the liquor and the coffee.

Others prefer to add spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, or even star anise, which intensify the aromas and transform the carajillo into a deeper and more complex experience for the palate. All these variations open up the possibility of enjoying the carajillo at different times of the year and offer a more original alternative that preserves the soul of the classic.

Next time you're craving a different coffee, try this guide on how to make a carajillo . You don't need to be an expert; you'll learn little by little. All you need to do is choose your favorite coffee and liqueur and spend a few minutes making it at home.