What can I use if I don't have Licor 43 for the Carajillo recipe?

Licor 43 has a very unique flavor profile of citrus and vanilla. If you cannot find it, you can try a high-quality vanilla liqueur with a splash of orange zest, though the flavor won't be perfectly authentic.

Should a Carajillo be shaken or stirred?

While you can stir it (Carajillo puesto), shaking it (Carajillo shakeado) is the most popular method in Mexico as it creates a beautiful, creamy foam from the coffee oils.

Can I use decaf coffee in this Carajillo recipe?

Yes! If you are sensitive to caffeine but want the flavor of a Carajillo after dinner, decaf espresso works perfectly and will still produce a great foam.

Is a Carajillo the same as an Espresso Martini?

Not exactly. While both use espresso, an Espresso Martini typically uses vodka and coffee liqueur (like Kahlua), whereas a Carajillo uses Licor 43, which is much more vanilla and citrus-forward.

Carajillo recipe: 5 Steps to the Perfect Mexican Coffee Cocktail

Name: The Ultimate Mexican Carajillo
Prep time: PT-493503H4M52S
Cook time: PT-493503H4M52S
Total time: PT-493503H4M52S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1.5 oz Licor 43; 1.5 oz Freshly brewed espresso (hot) Large ice cubes Optional: Orange twist for garnish Optional: 3 Coffee beans for garnish

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 oz Licor 43
1.5 oz Freshly brewed espresso (hot)
Large ice cubes
Optional: Orange twist for garnish
Optional: 3 Coffee beans for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Brew a fresh shot of espresso using your preferred method (espresso machine, Moka pot, or AeroPress).
Step 2: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with large, solid ice cubes to ensure maximum chill without excess dilution.
Step 3: Pour 1.5 ounces of Licor 43 over the ice in the shaker.
Step 4: Add the 1.5 ounces of hot espresso to the shaker immediately.
Step 5: Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until a thick foam forms and the shaker is icy cold.
Step 6: Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice and strain the Carajillo mixture into the glass.
Step 7: Garnish with an orange twist or three coffee beans and serve immediately while frothy.

Notes

Always use fresh espresso for the best foam. Shaking hot coffee with ice is the secret to the 'espuma'.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT0M
Category: Drinks, Snacks & Holiday Treats
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 drink
Calories: 175 kcal
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg