The traditional Mexican-style Carajillo is a two-ingredient espresso cocktail that mixes Licor 43, a vanilla-forward, natural liqueur from Spain, with freshly brewed espresso.

The cocktail generally goes by the title Carajillo 43, based mostly on the featured liqueur. The model usually claims that it’s the most well-liked cocktail in Mexico, although the Margarita and Paloma would love a phrase. 

In Mexico Metropolis, in the course of the lingering, post-meal sobremesa, the Carajillo is a wildly widespread after-dinner drink. Within the early 2000s, the sweetened espresso cocktail earned a fame with younger Mexico Metropolis party-goers because the go-to nightlife drink. It’s nonetheless extensively bought in native bars and golf equipment, and, in recent times, the drink has popped up on extra cocktail menus throughout the U.S.

Why the Carajillo works

Easy, two-ingredient cocktails just like the Rusty Nail, Black Russian, and the Stinger, could be surprisingly complicated. Particularly when a layered, natural liqueur and a strong, freshly pulled espresso are concerned. 

Licor 43 is a wealthy, honey-sweet liqueur anchored by the concentrated taste of vanilla bean, and bursting with botanicals like orange zest, nutmeg, cinnamon, and wooden notes. The liqueur softens and balances the acidic bitterness within the espresso. And the baking spice aromatics, together with a slight menthol high quality, complement the espresso flavors fantastically.

You’ll want to use freshly pulled espresso and compile the drink whereas nonetheless heat. Shake vigorously till it’s correctly chilled, and as soon as strained, the drink will froth up within the glass with a creamy layer on prime.