Carajillo Cocktail Recipe: Coffee & Licor 43 in One Irresistible Sip

Introduction

My first Carajillo experience wasn’t at a bar or a fancy brunch—it was in the cozy living room of a friend who had just returned from Mexico City. She pulled out a bottle of something golden, sweet-smelling, and unfamiliar: Licor 43. “Trust me,” she said, pouring it over a shot of espresso in a glass with big clinking ice cubes. “It’s like dessert, but grown up.” I took one sip and was immediately in love. It was rich, aromatic, creamy, sweet, and bitter all at once—coffee liqueur magic without being over-the-top.

That night, we sat cross-legged on the couch, sipping Carajillos and talking long past when we’d planned to head home. There was something about that drink that made the moment linger—a warm hug of vanilla and spice layered with the clarity and boldness of coffee. Since then, the Carajillo has become a go-to for me whenever I want to slow down after dinner, offer something unique to guests, or turn an ordinary afternoon into something a little special.

It’s the kind of drink that feels indulgent but effortless, bold but balanced. And while it might sound like something you’d only find on the menu of a cool Mexican cocktail bar, it’s actually so easy to make at home with just two ingredients and a little ice.

The Perfect Drink for Post-Dinner Chilling, Midday Pick-Me-Ups & Coffee-Lover Moments

If you love coffee and you love cocktails, the Carajillo is basically your dream in a glass. It’s the drink you didn’t know you needed—a perfect marriage of espresso’s intensity with the warm, aromatic sweetness of Licor 43. It’s great for winding down after dinner, as a coffee-based dessert substitute, or even as a “treat yourself” weekend drink when you don’t want a full dessert but still want something comforting.

I’ve made it on cold afternoons when I needed a little lift, and on sunny days when a hot cup of coffee felt like too much. I’ve served it at dinner parties as a smooth, show-stopping finale, and even once for a late-morning brunch when we all agreed that it was five o’clock somewhere. Every time, it got that “ooh, what is this?” reaction—and by the second sip, it had won everyone over.

It’s also a really beautiful option for people who like layered flavors. There’s sweetness and depth from the liqueur, bitterness and brightness from the coffee, and that gorgeous little moment when it hits the ice and everything chills and mingles. It feels luxurious, but takes two minutes to make.

Picture Gallery:

Why Licor 43 & Espresso Are a Match Made in Cocktail Heaven

The Carajillo only has two ingredients, but don’t be fooled—it’s complex, bold, and deeply satisfying thanks to the natural harmony between these two stars.

Licor 43: A Spanish liqueur made with 43 herbs, fruits, and spices (hence the name), it’s known for its vanilla-forward, citrusy, warm flavor profile. It’s sweet but not syrupy, and it has this beautiful golden hue that instantly makes a drink feel special. It brings warmth, spice, and depth to the cocktail.

Espresso or Strong Coffee: This brings the bold, bitter, energizing contrast. The heat of the espresso helps blend everything together if you’re serving it warm, while chilled espresso gives a crisp, refreshing edge. You want something strong, smooth, and freshly brewed—espresso shots are perfect, but really good French press or strong cold brew can work too.

Optional Ice: Serving it over ice creates that magical chill + flavor layering that makes this drink so fun. The ice melts just enough to mellow everything while still keeping it punchy.

When these two ingredients come together, you get a drink that’s sweet and bitter, warm and cold, smooth and bold—all at once. It’s kind of magical.

How to Make a Carajillo (Hot or Cold, Classic or Fancy)

Classic Iced Carajillo Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Licor 43
• 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (or strong hot coffee)
• Ice
• Optional garnish: orange peel or coffee beans

Instructions:

1. Fill a short glass with ice.
2. Pour Licor 43 over the ice.
3. Slowly pour in the hot espresso (or chilled if you prefer an all-cold drink).
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish if you like, or serve as-is.

Hot Carajillo Option:

• Simply combine hot espresso and Licor 43 in a heat-safe mug (no ice).
• Stir and serve immediately for a cozy, warm version.

Pro Tips:

• If using hot espresso over ice, pour slowly to keep some separation (or stir to blend).
• Use a good-quality espresso or strong coffee—flavor matters in such a simple recipe.
• Chill the espresso before pouring for a perfectly cold version that doesn’t dilute as quickly.

FAQ Section:

What does Licor 43 taste like?
It’s smooth, sweet, and rich with notes of vanilla, orange peel, cinnamon, and subtle herbs. Think of it as a golden, aromatic dessert in liquid form.

Can I use cold brew instead of espresso?
Absolutely. Just make sure it’s bold and unsweetened—too weak and it’ll get lost in the sweetness of the Licor 43.

Is this drink strong?
It’s spirit-forward, but balanced by sweetness and flavor. It feels smooth and comforting, not boozy or harsh.

Can I make it into a dessert?
Yes! Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an affogato-style dessert cocktail. You’ll thank me later.

Is this drink only served in Mexico or Spain?
While it’s super popular in Mexico and originated in Spain, it’s catching on worldwide—and for good reason. It’s too delicious to stay local.

Variations:

• Carajillo Tonic: Add a splash of tonic water for a bright, bubbly twist.
• Iced Carajillo Latte: Add a little milk or cream for a silky, coffeehouse feel.
• Spiced Carajillo: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra warmth.
• Chocolate Carajillo: Mix in a splash of chocolate liqueur for a mocha vibe.
• Carajillo Affogato: Pour it over vanilla or coffee ice cream for an after-dinner stunner.

When to Serve It:

After Dinner
It’s the ultimate digestif. Skip the dessert and opt for this sweet, caffeinated treat.

Brunch Parties
Tired of mimosas and Bloody Marys? This is your delicious, unexpected alternative.

Cozy Nights In
Perfect for sipping slowly on the couch with a book or your favorite show.

Dinner Parties
Offer it in place of dessert or coffee—it’ll steal the spotlight.

Weekend Chill Time
Serve it during your slow mornings or as a midday break. It’s like a reward in a glass.

Occasions to Serve It:

• Celebratory dinners and special date nights
• Holiday gatherings (especially great after a big meal)
• Coffee-lover events or espresso tastings
• When you want a pick-me-up and a wind-down at the same time
• Anytime you want to make coffee a little more exciting

Conclusion:

The Carajillo is proof that sometimes the best things in life are the simplest. Just two ingredients—Licor 43 and espresso—and suddenly you’ve got a cocktail that’s bold, smooth, sweet, and unforgettable. It’s comforting and energizing, elegant and easy, all in one beautiful glass.

Whether you serve it over ice on a warm day or sip it hot by the fire, it fits the moment. It’s the drink that finishes a great meal, elevates a regular evening, or turns a simple coffee break into something a little luxurious.

So the next time you’re craving something sweet, bold, and beautifully different, shake (or stir) up a Carajillo. Sip slow. Enjoy fully. And maybe share the secret with someone you like.