The now-essential ingredient of sweetened condensed milk was first incorporated into this potent summer cooler in the mid-twentieth century, when the commissaries of American military bases in Thailand were selling the thick, concentrated treat. Locals quickly embraced it, adding the stuff to both iced coffee and tea, making them luxuriously sweet. Maxime Iattoni
From strong coffee with brandy and spices to soothing mint tea, these are our favorite morning pick-me-ups, afternoon refreshers, and after-dinner treats.
The now-essential ingredient of sweetened condensed milk was first incorporated into this potent summer cooler in the mid-twentieth century, when the commissaries of American military bases in Thailand were selling the thick, concentrated treat. Locals quickly embraced it, adding the stuff to both iced coffee and tea, making them luxuriously sweet.
Irish Coffee
Native Dubliner Cathal Armstrong, chef of Restaurant Eve in Alexandria, Virginia, recommends using Red Breast or Paddy Irish whiskey in this pick-me-up that’s a classic, simple combination of coffee, whiskey, brown sugar, and soft-peaked whipped cream. Get the recipe for Irish Coffee »
Kira’s Coffee Liqueur
This recipe for homemade coffee liqueur was developed by longtime Café Grumpy employee Kira Birney, who makes the drink each year around the holidays to share with friends and family. Owner Caroline Bell recommends drizzling the liqueur over vanilla ice cream or using in a White Russian. Time will temper the intense sweetness, so be sure to allow to sit for a month or more.
Swedish Egg Coffee
Even lesser-quality coffee becomes something special when made with the unusual addition of a beaten egg.
Chai Iced Tea
This full-flavored chai has plenty of kick, thanks to the addition of black pepper, ginger, and cinnamon, and plenty of other warming spices.
Flat White
Australians and New Zealanders are fond of pouring espresso over light, velvety milk foam, a drink they’ve prosaically dubbed the flat white. In its balanced perfection, it possesses the strength of a macchiato and the creaminess of a latte.
Café Maria Theresia
This Viennese kaffeehaus specialty, named in honor of a Hapsburg ruler, raises espresso to fragrant heights with the addition of orange in not one but two ways. The coffee gets a jigger of orange liqueur, while a fragrant finish of grated orange zest crowns the thick whipped cream topping.
Granita di Caffe
In the hot, dry summers in Sicily, an icy slush of strong espresso and simple syrup is the perfect refresher. It’s often served as a parfait layered with rich, lightly sweetened whipped cream.
Back Porch Tea
Fresh-brewed iced tea gets a boost from gin and fresh fruit in this not-too-sweet cocktail.
