Nothing says “closing time” like the smell of coffee brewing and the return of harsh lighting. Generally, this sudden return to reality yields a mixture of terror and discontent–terror from the people who see what they were about to go home with, and discontent from those who just want to finish their brews and shots in the cave-like atmosphere of the dive-bar.

I think it’s high-time that we stop associating coffee with negative things like hang-overs and “closing time” and include it in the festivities! Coffee doesn’t have to be the geeky, hall-monitor of the drink-world. Add some liquor to him, and I’m sure he’ll drop the clipboard and whistle. Try this one on for size, but please walk–don’t run–to the liquor cabinet:

Ingredients

  • 1/4 oz coffee liqueur
  • 1/4 oz orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier)
  • 1/2 oz Brandy
  • ~6 oz Coffee (more or less to taste)
  • Whipped Cream

Add liqueurs and brandy to coffee. Mix well, and top with whipped cream.

For a fancier look, serve this mixture in a Brandy Glass rimmed with sugar.

As always, enjoy responsibly. Cheers!

Find more great cocktails like this one at www.thatsthespirit.com