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    Recipe for Kaffe Karlsson

    Kaffe Karlsson – a classic Swedish coffee drink with Baileys and Cointreau

    • 2 glasses
    • 4 ingredients
    • 6 steps
    Kaffe Karlsson – a classic Swedish coffee drink with Baileys and Cointreau

    Classic hot coffee drink with Baileys & Cointreau

    Kaffe Karlsson is a classic Swedish coffee drink often served to finish off a dinner or on chilly evenings when you want something both warming and smooth. The combination of coffee, Cointreau and Baileys gives a balanced flavour where orange notes meet creamy sweetness, without overpowering the character of the coffee.

    What is Kaffe Karlsson?

    Kaffe Karlsson is a Swedish classic among hot coffee drinks and has long been a popular alternative to Irish coffee. Instead of whiskey, Cointreau and Baileys are used here, giving a milder, rounder and more dessert-like profile.

    Method

    1. Whip the cream lightly until it's thick but still pourable.
    2. Preheat the glasses with hot water and pour it out.
    3. Pour the Cointreau and Baileys into the glasses.
    4. Top up with hot coffee and stir gently.
    5. Top with the lightly whipped cream by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
    6. Serve immediately without stirring.

    Tips!

    The cream should sit as a soft layer on top of the coffee. The drink should be sipped through the cream for the best taste experience.

    Want to vary the drink? You can:

    • adjust the amount of Cointreau for a more pronounced orange note
    • use milk instead of cream for a lighter version
    • top with grated chocolate
    • serve alcohol-free by leaving out the liqueurs

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    Frequently asked questions about Kaffe Karlsson

    How strong is Kaffe Karlsson?

    The strength is medium, since Baileys and Cointreau are milder than, say, whiskey. The drink is often perceived as softer and rounder than a classic Irish coffee

    Can you make an alcohol-free Kaffe Karlsson?

    Yes, leave out the liqueurs and use orange syrup or orange zest together with coffee and a little cream to mimic the flavour profile.

    Which coffee works best for Kaffe Karlsson?

    A full-bodied, ideally dark-roasted coffee gives the best balance against the cream and liqueurs.

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