Spanish coffee is a delightful and warming beverage that combines the rich flavors of coffee liqueur, rum, and hot coffee. This drink is perfect for cozy evenings or as a special after-dinner treat. The combination of the strong coffee and the sweetness of the whipped cream makes it a favorite among coffee lovers.
One of the key ingredients in this recipe is 151-proof rum, which is not commonly found in every household. This high-proof rum is essential for creating the flaming effect that makes Spanish coffee so unique. You may need to visit a well-stocked liquor store to find it. Additionally, coffee liqueur is another ingredient that might not be in your pantry, but it can be easily found in most supermarkets or liquor stores.

Ingredients For Spanish Coffee Recipe
Coffee liqueur: A sweet, coffee-flavored liqueur that adds depth and richness to the drink.
151-proof rum: A high-proof rum used to create the flaming effect in the drink.
Hot coffee: Freshly brewed coffee that forms the base of the drink.
Sugar: Used to rim the edge of the mug and add sweetness.
Whipped cream: A creamy topping that balances the strong flavors of the coffee and rum.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When rimming the edge of the coffee mug with sugar, make sure to moisten the rim slightly with a bit of water or lemon juice to help the sugar adhere better. This will create a more even and attractive sugar coating.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
coffee liqueur - Substitute with gluten-free coffee liqueur: Ensure the liqueur is labeled gluten-free to avoid any gluten contamination.
151-proof rum - Substitute with gluten-free rum: Most rums are naturally gluten-free, but always check the label to be certain.
hot coffee - Substitute with hot brewed coffee: Use any gluten-free coffee brand to ensure no cross-contamination.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener and is gluten-free, providing a slightly different flavor profile.
whipped cream - Substitute with coconut whipped cream: Coconut whipped cream is a dairy-free and gluten-free alternative that adds a unique flavor.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Beverage
How to Store or Freeze This Beverage
- Allow the Spanish coffee to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer the coffee liqueur and 151-proof rum mixture into an airtight container.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Freeze the mixture for up to 1 month.
- When ready to serve, thaw the frozen mixture in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat the mixture gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare fresh hot coffee and follow the original recipe instructions to assemble the Spanish coffee.
- Top with a fresh dollop of whipped cream before serving.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Pour the Spanish Coffee into a small saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching. Once it’s warmed to your liking, pour it back into your mug and top with a fresh dollop of whipped cream.
If you prefer using a microwave, transfer the Spanish Coffee to a microwave-safe mug. Heat it in 20-second intervals, stirring in between to maintain an even temperature. Once it’s hot, add a new dollop of whipped cream.
For a more controlled reheating, use a double boiler. Place the Spanish Coffee in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. Pour it back into your mug and finish with a fresh dollop of whipped cream.
If you have a milk frother with a heating function, pour the Spanish Coffee into the frother and heat it until it’s warm. This method can also add a bit of froth to your coffee, enhancing its texture. Top with a new dollop of whipped cream.
For those with an espresso machine that has a steam wand, you can use the steam wand to reheat the Spanish Coffee. Place the wand just below the surface of the coffee and steam until it’s hot. This method also adds a bit of froth. Finish with a fresh dollop of whipped cream.
Best Tools for Making This Drink
Coffee mug: A sturdy mug to hold the hot beverage and withstand the heat from the flaming rum.
Lighter or matches: Used to carefully ignite the 151-proof rum.
Spoon: For stirring in the sugar and mixing the ingredients.
Measuring shot glass: To accurately measure the coffee liqueur and 151-proof rum.
Saucer or small plate: To hold the sugar for rimming the edge of the coffee mug.
Whipped cream dispenser or can: To add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the drink.
Coffee maker: To brew the hot coffee needed for the recipe.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the coffee liqueur, 151-proof rum, and sugar in advance to streamline the process.
Use pre-made whipped cream: Save time by using store-bought whipped cream instead of making it from scratch.
Heat coffee in advance: Brew and keep the hot coffee ready in a thermos to quickly pour when needed.
Rim multiple mugs: Prepare several sugar-rimmed mugs at once if making multiple servings.
Use a long lighter: A long lighter makes it easier and safer to ignite the rum without hesitation.

Spanish Coffee Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 shot Coffee Liqueur
- 1 shot 151-proof Rum
- 1 cup Hot Coffee
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 dollop Whipped Cream
Instructions
- 1. Rim the edge of a coffee mug with sugar.
- 2. Add coffee liqueur and 151-proof rum to the mug.
- 3. Carefully light the rum on fire using a lighter or matches.
- 4. Let it burn for a few seconds, then extinguish the flame by pouring hot coffee into the mug.
- 5. Stir in sugar and top with a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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