How To Make a Carajillo (Easy & Quick Recipe)

Ever tried a coffee cocktail that wakes you up and relaxes you at the same time?

Carajillo has been one of my favorite drinks for years. Even long before I started Coffee Voilà. I first discovered it at a restaurant, where I was intrigued by how a simple mix of espresso and liquor could create something so bold, smooth, and enjoyable.

At the time, I always stuck with the classic version. But once I started experimenting at home, I realized how many ways you could tweak this drink to match different moods.

From testing different liquors to serving it hot or iced, I found that making a Carajillo at home is easy and a great way to personalize the experience.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what a Carajillo is, its history, how to make it at home, and the best liquors to use. Whether you prefer it strong and traditional or smooth and sweet, you’ll find everything you need to craft the perfect Carajillo right in your own kitchen!

What is a Carajillo?

If you love coffee with a bit of a kick, a Carajillo might just be your new favorite drink. It’s a simple yet bold coffee cocktail that combines hot espresso with a shot of liquor. This creates a warming and slightly boozy experience.

The combination of coffee’s rich, roasted depth with the sweetness or spice of the liquor makes it both an energizing and relaxing drink at the same time.

What Can You Expect?

The taste of a Carajillo depends on the liquor used. But the base flavors always revolve around strong espresso with hints of warmth, spice, and sweetness.

A traditional Carajillo made with brandy has a dry, slightly oaky finish, while the Mexican version with Licor 43 is sweeter, with vanilla and citrus notes balancing the espresso’s natural bitterness. You can also use rum, whiskey, or amaretto to add a different flavoring.

Where It’s Popular?

Carajillo is a drink with deep cultural roots, and while it originated in Spain, it has become popular across different regions, each putting its spin on it:

• Spain – The traditional Carajillo is often made with brandy or rum, sometimes flamed for extra depth.
• Mexico – The go-to version here uses Licor 43, a Spanish liqueur with honey, citrus, and vanilla flavors, making it smoother and more aromatic.
• Latin America – Different countries have adapted the Carajillo, using local spirits like whiskey, aged rum, or even coffee liqueurs for a regional twist.

This drink is commonly enjoyed after meals as a digestif. However, in some places, it’s also a daytime drink because who says you can’t mix coffee and liquor before 5 PM?

The History of Carajillo

The history of the Carajillo is just as rich as its flavor. One legend traces it back to Spanish soldiers in Cuba, who mixed coffee with rum for “coraje” (courage) before the battle.

Eventually, “corajillo” became “carajillo.” Others say it started in Catalonia, where workers spiked their coffee with brandy to power through long days.

Either way, it became a staple in Spain and Latin America, evolving into regional favorites.

In Mexico, the Carajillo took on a sweeter, smoother twist with Licor 43, a vanilla-citrus liqueur, making it a go-to after-dinner drink.

Whether served hot or iced, it’s a timeless combination of strong espresso and bold spirits.

Popular Carajillo Variations

One of the best things about a Carajillo is its versatility. Depending on where you are or what you’re in the mood for, you can tweak the classic recipe to create a completely different experience. So here are some of my favorite options:

1 – Carajillo 43 (Mexican Style)

This is arguably the most popular version, especially in Mexico. Instead of brandy, this Carajillo features Licor 43, a Spanish liqueur with notes of vanilla, citrus, and spice.

As a result, you get a smoother, slightly sweet Carajillo that feels more balanced than the traditional version. Usually, it’s served over ice, making it an excellent option for warm weather.

2 – Spanish Carajillo (Traditional)

The original Carajillo, straight from Spain, keeps things simple and strong. It’s made with brandy or rum, giving it a drier, more intense flavor.

Some variations also involve lightly warming the alcohol before adding it to the espresso. This enhances the aroma and gives the drink a richer depth. If you love a bold coffee experience, this one’s for you.

3 – Carajillo on the Rocks

A refreshing take on the drink, this version is served over ice, making it a great option for summer or when you want something smoother and more diluted. The ice slightly mellows the intensity of the alcohol, making it easier to sip on a hot day.

4 – Creamy Carajillo

Think of this as the dessert version of a Carajillo. It incorporates frothed milk or whipped cream. Also, giving it a silky texture that balances the bold espresso and liquor. Some people even add a dusting of cocoa or cinnamon on top for an extra layer of indulgence.

5 – Spiced Carajillo

If you’re in the mood for something cozy, the spiced Carajillo is a must-try. Infusing the drink with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even star anise adds warmth and complexity, making it perfect for colder months. A little orange zest also works wonders in bringing out the flavors of the espresso and liquor.

Best Liquors For a Carajillo

Here are some of my favorite liquors to use when making a Carajillo, along with why they work so well.

Licor 43 – Sweet, Vanilla, and Citrus Notes (Mexican Favorite)

This Spanish liqueur is known for its smooth vanilla, citrus, and spice notes, making it the go-to choice for a slightly sweet and aromatic Carajillo.

It blends seamlessly with espresso, improving the natural caramel tones in the coffee without overpowering it. If you’re new to Carajillos, start with Licor 43.

Brandy – Traditional Spanish Choice with Deep, Warm Flavors

For a more classic and robust Carajillo, brandy is the way to go. Spanish brandies, like Torres 10, have a deep, warm flavor with notes of oak, dried fruit, and caramel.

The richness of brandy gives the drink a stronger backbone, making it ideal for those who prefer a drier, less sweet Carajillo. I love using Torres 10 because it has just the right balance of smoothness and intensity, creating a well-rounded sip every time.

Rum – Adds Caramel and Molasses Sweetness

Rum might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a Carajillo, but it’s an underrated option—especially if you enjoy a hint of caramelized sweetness.

Dark rums like Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva or Zacapa 23 bring out deep molasses, vanilla, and spice flavors that complement espresso beautifully.

I personally enjoy Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva because it has a velvety texture and rich toffee-like sweetness that pairs exceptionally well with a bold shot of espresso.

Whiskey – Bold and Smoky, Great for Whiskey Lovers

If you’re a whiskey drinker, swapping out Licor 43 or brandy for whiskey can create a bolder, smokier Carajillo. A good choice here is Jameson Black Barrel, which has a slightly sweet, oaky profile with caramel and spice undertones.

For something smokier, Laphroaig 10 brings a peaty, earthy kick that turns the Carajillo into a more complex, slow-sipping drink.

I personally enjoy Jameson Black Barrel because it keeps the balance between smooth and robust, allowing the espresso’s natural richness to shine.

Amaretto – Almond and Sweet Notes for a Unique Spin

If you like a nutty, dessert-like touch, Amaretto is a fantastic alternative. Disaronno, the most well-known Amaretto brand, brings in strong almond, vanilla, and marzipan-like flavors that create a smoother, sweeter Carajillo.

It’s a great choice for after-dinner drinks, especially if you enjoy pairing your coffee with something subtly sweet.

Tips for Making the Perfect Carajillo

After having tried different combos, here are some tips that I found helpful:

1 – Freshly Brewed Espresso

A bold and well-extracted espresso shot is the foundation of a Carajillo. Always use freshly brewed espresso made with high-quality beans to ensure rich crema and full-bodied flavor. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a Moka pot or AeroPress can work as great alternatives.

2 – Adjust Liquor

Not all Carajillos should taste the same. For this reason, adjusting the liquor amount can make a big difference. If you prefer a sweeter, smoother drink, use a little more Licor 43.

If you want something stronger, a splash of whiskey or brandy can enhance the boldness of the espresso. I recommend playing around with ratios to find your perfect balance.

3 – Heat-Resistant Glass

Since Carajillo is often served hot, using a heat-resistant glass is a must. A small tempered glass keeps your drink at the right temperature and showcases the beautiful layers of espresso and liquor. If you’re making an iced Carajillo, a sturdy rocks glass works best.

4 – Experiment with Different Liquors

While Licor 43 is the most popular choice, don’t be afraid to try other spirits. Brandy gives a classic Spanish feel, rum adds caramel-like sweetness, and amaretto brings a nutty twist. You can even mix two liquors together. For instance, whiskey and a splash of orange liqueur. This gives you a unique Carajillo experience.

Last Thoughts

Have you tried making a Carajillo at home? Do you have a favorite liquor pairing or a special twist on the recipe? Drop a comment below and share your tips and with that voilà!