Top 10 spirits and liqueurs to spike coffee

Coffee is great. Alone, with milk and, why not? with a bit of something stronger. But pouring just about anything with an alcoholic grade in a cup won't make your latte any better. It is important to choose a beverage that goes well with coffee. 

Here is my top 10 of best beverages to add to coffee...

10. Gin: The best way to enjoy gin in your coffee is making a "Dutch Coffee", which is 1 part gin, 5 parts black coffee and 1 teaspoon of sugar per cup. Top that with some whipped cream.

9. Rum: In Spanish they call "Carajillo" to a mix of black coffee and rum (or brandy), normally 2 parts coffee and one rum. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the mix, a bit of sugar and enjoy.

8. Vodka: Because of its neutral flavor, vodka goes well with many things and coffee is not an exception. Try a vanilla flavored vodka mixed in a frozen latte... just delicious.

7. Eggnog: Have a taste of Christmas with a twist, mix equal parts of coffee and eggnog, top with whipped cream and a touch of nutmeg. Serve warm.

6. Triple Sec: For those who enjoy something different, this orange liqueur is great with black coffee, some cream and sweetened with honey. 

5. Amaretto: Almonds and coffee are a wonderful couple. In this case, just a teaspoon works well with an espresso, but if you have a latte, add two or three tablespoons (or four).

4. Kahlúa: Coffee plus coffee liqueur is not redundant, it's yummy. It mixes perfectly with coffee and is enhanced by it in a great mix.

3. Frangelico: Hazelnuts are one of the most desired aromas in coffee. This sweet liqueur gives an amazing flavor, especially to a mocaccino (hot or cold).

2. Whiskey: The classic mix for the Irish Coffee is a people's favorite because its silky texture, great aroma and strong taste. Besides the famous drink with whiskey, coffee, cream and sugar; you can also just add a few drops of whiskey to an espresso and it'll be lovely.

1. Baileys: Creamy and soft, my personal favorite. Add it in equal parts to an espresso, a shot to a latte or generously to a frozen capuccino; it is just irresistible.

So, in general, the idea is to select a beverage that goes well with the natural characteristics and taste of coffee. Take into consideration that if you are using espresso, the alcohol can't over shade the coffee so don't use too much; with latte, go for balance; and with frozen capuccinos, remember to add a bit more cream, a spoon of powdered milk o some ice cream, because alcohol makes ice melt faster (and you don't want a watery drink).