International Coffee Day is the perfect time to brew up some excitement about coffee and coffee cocktails! Today, we’re going to celebrate this holiday by adding spirits to the mix and adding cocktails into your coffee experience. We’ll chat about the history of International Coffee Day, explore how to celebrate it in style, and offer you a delicious list of 10 coffee cocktails. Plus, we’ll provide essential tips for crafting the best coffee cocktails. So, grab your coffee or coffee liqueur and let’s get started!

What Is International Coffee Day?

International Coffee Day is a global homage to the beloved beverage that has a special place in the hearts of millions. It’s a great day to appreciate the aroma, warmth, and taste of coffee.

When Is International Coffee Day?

International Coffee Day falls on the 1st of October each year. It’s the perfect day to wake up your inner barista and mix up some extraordinary coffee cocktails.

The History of International Coffee Day:

The history of International Coffee Day is as rich and diverse as the coffee beans we use to brew a cuppa. This global celebration of the beloved beverage has its roots in a collective effort to acknowledge the cultural, economic, and social significance of coffee across the world. We bet you didn’t know that International Coffee Day was about more than just sipping on a mug of joe!

Birth of the Idea:

The concept of an International Coffee Day began brewing in the early 2000s. Coffee lovers, industry professionals, and various coffee associations recognized the need for a day that would not only celebrate coffee but also raise awareness about the plight of coffee farmers and workers in coffee-producing countries. They aimed to promote fair trade practices and sustainable coffee production.

The Coffee Renaissance:

In 2015, the International Coffee Organization (ICO) brought this idea to fruition. The ICO, an intergovernmental organization representing coffee-producing and consuming countries, officially designated October 1st as International Coffee Day. This date was chosen to coincide with the traditional start of the coffee harvest season in many coffee-producing regions.

A Worldwide Celebration:

Over time, International Coffee Day quickly gained momentum and recognition worldwide. Coffee shops, companies, and coffee enthusiasts joined hands to celebrate this day with events, promotions, and special brews. It became a day to not only savor the taste of coffee but also to reflect on the challenges faced by those who make our daily caffeine fix possible.

A Platform for Change:

One of the primary goals of International Coffee Day is to shed light on the struggles of coffee farmers, who often face issues like fluctuating coffee prices, climate change, and economic hardships. The day serves as a platform to discuss and address these challenges, encouraging consumers to support fair trade and sustainable coffee practices.

Beyond Borders:

International Coffee Day transcends geographical boundaries. It unites coffee lovers from every corner of the world, emphasizing the universal appeal of this beverage. Whether you’re sipping a traditional Turkish coffee in Istanbul, a café au lait in Paris, or a cold brew in New York City, on this day, coffee becomes a common language that connects people across cultures.

The Future of International Coffee Day:

As International Coffee Day continues to evolve, it remains a day of celebration, education, and advocacy. It not only honors the coffee bean but also the countless hands that cultivate, harvest, and roast it. It reminds us of the global community that enjoys this beverage and the responsibility we share in ensuring its sustainability!

How to Celebrate International Coffee Day:

This International Coffee Day, let your love for coffee shine through in your unique way. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just starting your coffee journey, there are endless ways to celebrate this globally cherished beverage and the people behind it. Here are a few ideas for you:

• Visit a Local Coffee Shop:

Kick off your International Coffee Day celebration by visiting your favorite local coffee shop or exploring a new one. Support your community’s coffee artisans and savor a freshly brewed cup of coffee made with love.

• Learn About Coffee Cultures:

Take a virtual trip around the world by learning about coffee cultures from different countries. Explore the rituals and traditions associated with coffee in places like Ethiopia, Italy, or Japan. Expand your coffee horizons!

• Support Fair Trade Coffee:

International Coffee Day is an excellent opportunity to support fair trade coffee practices. Choose coffee brands that are committed to ethical sourcing and fair compensation for coffee farmers. Your cup of coffee can make a positive impact globally.

• Explore Coffee Cocktails:

Take inspiration from our upcoming list of coffee cocktails and mix up your own coffee-infused drinks. From Espresso Martinis to Irish Coffees, there’s a world of coffee cocktails waiting to be explored.

• Give Back to Coffee Communities:

Support organizations that work to improve the lives of coffee farmers and their communities. Your donation can make a meaningful difference in providing access to education, healthcare, and better living conditions for those who contribute to your daily caffeine fix.

Coffee Cocktails to Enjoy on International Coffee Day:

Now for the fun part! If you’ve been on the hunt for some delicious coffee cocktails to try, we’ve got you covered. From some classics to some lesser-known coffee cocktails, you’ll want to try all of these on International Coffee Day – but remember to drink responsibly! Check out this list of eight coffee cocktails, mix them up, or come up with your own!

#1: The Espresso Martini

This classic favorite features espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur, shaken to perfection.

1. Brew a shot of espresso (1 oz) using your preferred method. It’s crucial to use freshly brewed and hot espresso for the best flavor.
2. Place a martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill it.
3. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 1 ½ oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, the hot espresso, and ½ oz simple syrup to the shaker.
4. Put the lid on the shaker and shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
5. Remove the chilled martini glass from the freezer. Place a fine-mesh strainer over the glass and carefully strain the shaken mixture into the glass. This will help ensure a smooth and silky texture without any ice crystals.
6. If desired, garnish your Espresso Martini with a few coffee beans.

#2: The Irish Coffee

The Irish Coffee is a warm blend of Irish whiskey, sugar, and coffee, topped with whipped cream.

1. Start by preheating your Irish coffee glass or mug. You can do this by filling it with hot water and allowing it to sit for a minute or two.
2. Brew a strong cup of coffee using your preferred method. It’s important to have hot coffee for this drink.
3. While the coffee is brewing, whip the heavy cream until it thickens but is still pourable. You want the cream to float on top of the coffee, so it should be slightly whipped but not stiff.
4. Pour 1 ½ oz Irish whiskey directly into the warm glass. This is where you can add simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter Irish coffee. Stir the whiskey (and simple syrup if used) gently to warm it.
5. Slowly pour 6 oz freshly brewed hot coffee into the glass over the back of a spoon to layer it on top of the whiskey. Leave about a half-inch of space at the top.
6. Gently float the slightly whipped cream on top of the coffee by pouring it over the back of a spoon. The cream should sit on top of the coffee without sinking.
7. Optionally, garnish your Irish coffee with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or a dash of ground cinnamon.

#3: The Mocha White Russian

This one is a creamy delight with vodka, coffee liqueur, and chocolate milk.

1. Start by chilling an old-fashioned glass or a rocks glass.
2. In a cocktail shaker, add 1 ½ oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, and ½ oz chocolate liqueur.
3. Pour in 2 oz cold brew coffee. Cold brew coffee is a key component in this drink as it imparts a smoother coffee flavor compared to hot brewed coffee.
4. Add ice cubes to the shaker and give it a good shake for about 15-20 seconds.
5. Use a fine-mesh strainer or a cocktail strainer to pour the mixture from the shaker (or mixing glass) into the chilled glass.
6. To create the signature layered look of the White Russian, gently float 1 oz heavy cream on top of the drink. You can do this by slowly pouring the cream over the back of a spoon so that it sits on the surface of the cocktail.
7. If desired, garnish your Mocha White Russian with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder.

#4: The Spiced Coffee Old Fashioned

If you’re looking for spice and everything nice, this “bourbon meets cold brew coffee, with a hint of spice and orange zest” is for you.

1. In an Old Fashioned glass, add a large ice cube or a few regular ice cubes. The choice of ice cube depends on your preference; larger cubes melt slower and dilute the drink less.
2. Pour 2 ounces of Bourbon whiskey over the ice.
3. Add ½ ounce of simple syrup to the glass. Adjust the sweetness to your taste; you can add more or less syrup as desired.
4. Follow with 2 dashes of Angostura bitters and 1 dash of orange bitters.
5. Pour 1 ounce of cold brew coffee into the glass.
6. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
7. Express the oils from a piece of orange peel over the drink.
8. Add a cinnamon stick to the glass for an extra layer of spice and aroma. You can also give it a gentle stir with the cinnamon stick to infuse the flavors further.
9. Garnish with the twisted orange peel, allowing it to float on top of the drink.

#5: The Café Amaretto

This one is a sweet and nutty creation with amaretto, coffee, and a dash of cream.

1. Start by brewing a fresh cup of your favorite coffee. It’s essential to have hot, freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor.
2. To keep your Café Amaretto hot, it’s a good idea to warm your glass.
3. Using a shot glass or jigger, measure out 1 ½ ounces of Amaretto liqueur.
4. Pour the measured Amaretto liqueur into your warmed glass. Follow this by adding 8 oz hot brewed coffee. Stir gently to combine the two ingredients.
5. If desired, top your Café Amaretto with a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess of the whipped cream complements the nutty flavor of the Amaretto. For an extra touch, sprinkle some sliced almonds on top of the whipped cream.

#6: The Mexican Iced Coffee

As this one implies, the Mexican Iced Coffee is a fiery mix of tequila, coffee, and a touch of cinnamon.

1. Start by brewing a strong cup (8 oz) of coffee. You can use a drip coffee maker, French press, or pour-over method. Make sure it’s hot.
2. While the coffee is still hot, stir in 2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, and ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract.
3. For an authentic Mexican Iced Coffee experience, add 1 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa) and 1 oz tequila (optional) to the sweetened and spiced coffee. 
4. Allow the coffee mixture to cool to room temperature. You can speed up this process by placing it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
5. Fill a glass with ice cubes. Pour the cooled Mexican coffee mixture over the ice.
6. If you like, top your Mexican Iced Coffee with a dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick.

#7: The Caramel Macchiato Cocktail

More like dessert than a cocktail, this one is sweet and decadent, featuring caramel vodka and coffee.

1. Start by brewing a shot (1 – 1 ½ oz) of fresh espresso using your espresso machine. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
2. Take a martini or cocktail glass and drizzle caramel sauce inside the glass. Swirl it around to create a caramel drizzle pattern on the inner walls of the glass. Place the glass in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
3. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine 1 ½ oz coffee liqueur, 1 ½ oz vanilla vodka, 1 oz caramel syrup, your freshly brewed and cooled espresso, and 1 oz half-and-half cream. The half-and-half adds a creamy and indulgent touch to the cocktail.
4. Close the shaker and shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
5. Remove the chilled glass from the refrigerator and strain the cocktail mixture into it. The caramel sauce on the glass will give it a lovely caramel flavor as you sip.
6. For an extra flair, you can garnish your Caramel Macchiato Cocktail with a dollop of whipped cream on top. Drizzle a little more caramel sauce over the whipped cream if desired.

#8: The Coffee and Cognac

For a more sophisticated pairing, this cognac and coffee cocktail steps up its game.

1. Start by brewing a fresh cup of your favorite coffee. You can use a French press, pour-over, or any preferred coffee brewing method. Ensure it’s hot and aromatic.
2. Choose a heat-resistant glass or coffee mug suitable for hot beverages. Preheat the glass.
3. In the preheated glass, add 1 ½ oz Cognac and ½ oz simple syrup. Stir gently to mix them together.
4. Pour the freshly brewed hot coffee (4 oz) into the glass with the Cognac and simple syrup mixture. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
5. Top your coffee and Cognac cocktail with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
6. If you want to take your cocktail to the next level, grate a small amount of fresh nutmeg over the whipped cream. Nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the Cognac and coffee beautifully.

Use Our Distillery Directory to Find Delicious, Local Spirits for Your International Coffee Day Coffee Cocktails

As International Coffee Day approaches, it’s time to elevate your coffee game with these delightful coffee cocktails. Explore the flavors of coffee and spirits, and if you’re eager to discover local distilleries near you, be sure to check out our by-state directory. We hope you have a fantastic day celebrating coffee!

Visit our by-state distillery directory today and uncover local spirits and liqueurs that will take your coffee cocktails to the next level →