5 coffee cocktails to keep you awake

There’s nothing quite like the invigorating aroma of freshly brewed coffee to kickstart your day, but what if you could elevate that experience? Coffee cocktails are an exciting way to enjoy the robust flavours of coffee while giving yourself a satisfying energy boost. Whether you're looking to stay awake or simply savour the fusion of two of your favourite drinks, these cocktails offer something unique.

As coffee culture continues to thrive, coffee cocktails are becoming increasingly popular in both bars and homes across the UK. From espresso-based martinis to rich, creamy Irish coffee, there’s a cocktail to suit every palate. In this article, we’ll explore five energising coffee cocktails, discuss which coffee keeps you awake the longest, and highlight the best caffeine sources for staying alert.

5 Energising Coffee Cocktails

Espresso Martini

• Ingredients: vodka, coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, simple syrup.
• Description: The espresso martini is a timeless classic that combines the bold, rich flavours of espresso coffee cocktails with the smoothness of vodka. It’s the perfect pick-me-up after a long day, offering both flavour and energy in a single glass.

Irish Coffee

• Ingredients: hot brewed coffee, Irish whisky, brown sugar, whipped cream.
• Description: A warm, comforting drink that’s ideal for cold winter evenings. The Irish coffee balances the strong flavours of whisky with the smoothness of whipped cream, providing a relaxing yet invigorating experience.

Cold Brew Negroni

• Ingredients: cold brew coffee, gin, Campari, sweet vermouth.
• Description: A refreshing summer twist on the traditional Negroni, this cocktail adds the bold flavours of cold brew coffee to the bitter-sweet profile of the Negroni. Perfect for those who enjoy a complex cocktail with a caffeinated edge.

Coffee Old Fashioned

• Ingredients: bourbon, coffee liqueur, bitters, orange peel.
• Description: The coffee old-fashioned is a sophisticated take on the classic old-fashioned cocktail. The addition of coffee liqueur gives it a subtle caffeine boost, making it ideal for an evening tipple that also keeps you awake.

Mocha Mint Martini

• Ingredients: vodka, chocolate liqueur, crème de menthe, cold brew coffee.
• Description: A dessert-like cocktail that marries the indulgent flavours of chocolate, mint, and cold brew coffee. The mocha mint martini is both refreshing and energising, perfect for those with a sweet tooth who still want that caffeine kick.

Which Coffee Keeps You Awake the Most?

When it comes to staying awake, the type of coffee you choose can have a significant impact on your energy levels. Robusta beans, which contain nearly twice the caffeine of Arabica beans, are often favoured by those seeking a stronger, more intense caffeine kick. While Arabica beans are known for their smoother, more refined flavour and subtle sweetness, Robusta beans are bolder and more bitter. This makes Robusta an excellent choice for anyone needing a powerful boost to stay alert and awake, especially when consumed as part of a blend or on its own.

The way you brew your coffee also affects its strength and how effectively it keeps you awake. Espresso and cold brew are two brewing methods that concentrate the caffeine, resulting in a more potent cup of coffee. Espresso is brewed under high pressure, producing a rich, concentrated shot that delivers a quick and powerful jolt of energy. 

It's no wonder espresso forms the base of many energising cocktails, such as the espresso martini or coffee old fashioned, where its robust flavours pair perfectly with alcohol. On the other hand, cold brew, brewed slowly over hours, tends to have a higher caffeine concentration due to its longer extraction process, offering a smooth yet strong option that works beautifully in both cocktails and chilled drinks.

Coffee cocktails are an exciting and energising way to enjoy your favourite caffeinated beverage. Whether you prefer the bold flavours of an espresso martini or the comforting warmth of an Irish coffee, these drinks offer both taste and a caffeine boost. For those looking to stay awake, selecting the right type of coffee—whether it's a Robusta blend or a high-caffeine brand like Death Wish Coffee—is essential.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with these recipes at home and find the perfect cocktail that suits your taste buds and energy needs!

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