Spanish Espresso Cocktail Recipe

Flame, not espresso, opens the Spanish Espresso: overproof rum is ignited in a sugar-rimmed glass earlier than triple sec, Kahlúa, sizzling espresso, and a prime of whipped cream observe. This cocktail was invented at Huber’s Cafe — Portland, Oregon’s oldest bar and restauran t— the place its singular presentation has made it a favourite amongst patrons for many years.

Bartenders at Huber’s have been performing this fireplace ritual for the reason that Seventies. The table-side spinning of the glass with the convenience of muscle reminiscence and the boldness of repetition is among the historic bar’s claims to fame and continues to be a severe draw for curious drinkers.

Why the Spanish Espresso works

Regardless of the distinctive theatrics, this model of Huber’s Spanish Espresso is grounded in cocktail historical past. It bears a robust resemblance to each the Mexican Carajillo and the basic Irish Espresso.

The spark of fireplace is greater than theatrics; the blazing rum warms the glass and caramelizes the sugar rim, each giving heat and texture to the drink. Any overproof rum that did not go up in flames offers the boozy spine of the drink.

The triple sec and Kahlúa work in tandem to offer sweetness and a few stability to the Spanish Espresso. The triple sec offers citrus notes that pair effectively with the wealthy, roasty notes of the espresso and Kahlúa. 

The whipped cream and non-compulsory dusting of nutmeg paired with the caramelized sugar rim give the Spanish Espresso a dessert-like aptitude that makes it a superb after-dinner sip.