Rich, smooth, and just the right amount of bold—this Coffee Manhattan is the perfect mix of whiskey warmth and deep coffee flavor. Whether you’re winding down after dinner or looking for a sophisticated twist on a classic cocktail, this one’s a winner. I’ve made this countless times, and trust me, once you get the balance right, it’s hard to go back to a regular Manhattan.
Coffee Manhattan
What You’ll Need
Servings: 1 cocktail
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon (or rye for a spicier kick)
- 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
- 1 oz (30 ml) cold brew coffee (or a shot of espresso for a stronger coffee hit)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice (for mixing)
- Orange peel (for garnish)
Equipment:
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon (or any long spoon for stirring)
- Strainer
- Coupe glass (or a rocks glass for a more relaxed feel)
How to Make It
- Fill a mixing glass with ice—this chills everything down beautifully.
- Pour in the bourbon, sweet vermouth, cold brew coffee, and bitters.
- Stir for about 30 seconds until the drink is well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Twist an orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in as a garnish.
That’s it! A smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced Coffee Manhattan.
Tips for the Best Coffee Manhattan
- Use fresh cold brew – The smoother, less acidic taste makes a big difference.
- Don’t skimp on the stir – Proper stirring chills the drink without watering it down too much.
- Adjust the sweetness – If you prefer a drier cocktail, try dry vermouth instead of sweet.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix everything except the ice and garnish a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, stir with ice and strain into your glass.
What to Serve With It
This cocktail pairs beautifully with rich, slightly bitter, or smoky flavors:
- Dark Chocolate – The bittersweet notes complement the coffee and whiskey.
- Aged Cheese – Sharp cheddar or gouda work wonderfully.
- Grilled Meats – The smoky char balances the drink’s warmth.
Variations to Try
Want to change things up? Here are some fun twists:
Irish Coffee Manhattan
- Swap bourbon for Irish whiskey for a smoother, slightly sweeter version.
Mocha Manhattan
- Replace sweet vermouth with chocolate liqueur for a rich, chocolatey spin.
Spiced Coffee Manhattan
- Use spiced coffee (think cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom) for a cozy, aromatic twist.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Swap the bourbon and vermouth for a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative and follow the same steps.
Common Questions
Can I use decaf coffee?
Absolutely! Decaf works just as well if you want to skip the caffeine.
What’s the best whiskey for this?
Bourbon gives a smooth, slightly sweet taste, while rye adds a bit of spice.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Yes! Just scale up the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher. Stir with ice before serving.
What’s another garnish option?
A Luxardo cherry or a lemon twist works beautifully.
This Coffee Manhattan has been my go-to for slow evenings and special occasions alike. It’s simple, sophisticated, and just the right amount of indulgent. Try it, tweak it to your taste, and enjoy every sip! 🍸
