Carajillo Mezcal Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Coffee and Mezcal

If you’re looking for a cocktail that combines the bold flavors of coffee with the smoky richness of mezcal, the Carajillo mezcal is a must-try. This popular drink, traditionally served with brandy or rum, takes on a new dimension when made with Del Maguey’s artisanal mezcal. Whether you’re serving it as a post-dinner drink or enjoying it as an after-work treat, the Carajillo mezcal brings together warmth and smokiness in every sip.

Ingredients for the Carajillo Mezcal

To prepare your own Carajillo mezcal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz Del Maguey Mezcal
• 1 oz freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
• Ice
• Coffee beans (for garnish, optional)

How to Make the Carajillo Mezcal Cocktail

Making a Carajillo mezcal cocktail is simple and quick. Here’s how you can craft the perfect drink:

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Carajillo Mezcal

1. Prepare the Coffee: Brew a shot of strong espresso or your favorite dark coffee. The quality of the coffee plays a key role in the overall taste of the Carajillo mezcal, so opt for freshly brewed espresso or a rich, flavorful coffee.
   
2. Chill the Glass: Begin by adding ice to a rocks glass to chill it.
   
3. Combine Mezcal and Coffee: In a shaker, combine Del Maguey mezcal and freshly brewed coffee. If you prefer your drink a little sweeter, you can add 1/2 oz of simple syrup to balance the flavors.
   
4. Shake: Add ice to the shaker and shake the ingredients well to chill the mixture.
   
5. Serve and Garnish: Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass over fresh ice. For a finishing touch, garnish with a few coffee beans for a nice aromatic accent.
   

Tips and Variations for the Carajillo Mezcal

The Carajillo mezcal can be easily customized to your liking. Here are a few tips and variations to make it your own:

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter Carajillo, feel free to add more simple syrup or a dash of vanilla syrup. For those who enjoy less sweetness, simply skip the syrup.
  
• Try a Cold Brew: If you prefer a smoother, less acidic coffee flavor, swap the espresso for cold brew coffee. The cold brew’s mellow profile pairs beautifully with the mezcal.
  
• Spice It Up: For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange liqueur. These additions enhance the drink’s complexity and add an unexpected twist.
  

Best Mezcal for the Carajillo Mezcal Cocktail

When crafting your Carajillo mezcal, the choice of mezcal makes all the difference. Del Maguey’s mezcals are known for their artisanal quality and unique flavors. Del Maguey Vida Puebla is an excellent choice for this cocktail. Its smooth smokiness and complex flavor profile complement the coffee beautifully, enhancing the drink’s bold character without overpowering it.

Discover other recipes like the Mezcal Negroni in our blog.