Move Over, Espresso Martini: Meet the Carajillo
If you have been to a trendy bar or a dinner party lately, you might have noticed the Espresso Martini has some competition. There is a new coffee cocktail in the spotlight, and it is rapidly becoming the drink of the year.
Meet the Carajillo (pronounced car-a-HEE-yo).
While the Espresso Martini will always be a classic, the Carajillo is winning hearts for two very good reasons: it is incredibly delicious, and it is shockingly easy to make at home. It captures that perfect balance of caffeine and cocktail culture, but with a warm, spiced flavor profile that feels entirely new.
A Mexico City Classic
Though its roots trace back to Spain, the modern version of the Carajillo became a phenomenon in the vibrant dining scene of Mexico City. There, it is the ultimate "sobremesa" drink—the cocktail you order after a meal to keep the conversation going.
Unlike the vodka-heavy bite of a martini, the Carajillo is rich, aromatic, and velvety. It is traditionally served "shakeado" (shaken) over ice, making it a refreshing sipper that works just as well at brunch as it does at a late-night lounge.
The Secret Ingredient: Licor 43
The magic of this cocktail comes down to one specific bottle: Licor 43.
If you haven't tried it yet, you are in for a treat. Licor 43 is a legendary Spanish liqueur crafted from 43 different herbs, fruits, and spices. It pours like liquid gold and boasts a flavor profile dominated by bright citrus, warm vanilla, and subtle spice.
Because Licor 43 is naturally sweet and complex, it eliminates the need for simple syrup or multiple spirits. It harmonizes perfectly with the bitterness of dark roast coffee.
The Classic: Carajillo
The original and still the champion. Two ingredients, endless satisfaction.
What You Need:
- 2 oz Fresh Espresso
- 2 oz Licor 43
- Large ice cube
The Technique: Pour the Licor 43 and espresso into a cocktail shaker, fill with ice, and shake vigorously for 20 seconds. Strain over a fresh large ice cube in a rocks glass. The result is a thick, luxurious crema that rivals the best cappuccino—no dairy required.
Pro Tip: If you prefer your drinks less sweet, adjust the ratio to 2 oz espresso and 1.5 oz Licor 43.
👉 Get the full Carajillo recipe
5 Ways to Make a Carajillo
Once you have mastered the classic, the Carajillo becomes a canvas for creativity. Here are four variations that each bring something special to the table.
1. Carajillo de Oaxaca — The Smoky One
For guests who love bold, complex flavors, this Oaxacan twist adds artisanal mezcal to the mix.
The Twist: Split the base between Licor 43 and mezcal. The smoky agave notes cut through the vanilla sweetness for a drink that is deep, earthy, and utterly sophisticated.
The Recipe: 2 oz espresso + 1.5 oz Licor 43 + 1.5 oz mezcal. Garnish with an orange twist.
👉 Get the Carajillo de Oaxaca recipe
2. Spiced Carajillo — The Cozy One
Perfect for fall and winter, this variation bridges the gap between a cocktail and traditional Mexican Café de Olla.
The Twist: A pinch of cinnamon transforms the drink into something warm, aromatic, and perfect for sweater weather. It captures the essence of the cinnamon-spiced coffee brewed in clay pots throughout Mexico.
The Recipe: 2 oz espresso + 2 oz Licor 43 + pinch of ground cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and orange twist.
👉 Get the Spiced Carajillo recipe
3. Bourbon Carajillo — The Boozy One
This one is for the whiskey lovers who find the classic Carajillo a touch too sweet.
The Twist: Splitting the base with bourbon adds warmth, depth, and a satisfying kick. A dash of aromatic bitters bridges the vanilla notes of Licor 43 with the caramel and oak character of American whiskey.
The Recipe: 1.5 oz espresso + 1 oz Licor 43 + 1 oz bourbon + 1 dash aromatic bitters. Garnish with an orange slice.
👉 Get the Bourbon Carajillo recipe
4. Creamy Carajillo — The Dessert One
For those who love White Russians and Mudslides but want something more sophisticated.
The Twist: A splash of heavy cream creates a velvety, dessert-like drink that is more approachable for people intimidated by black coffee cocktails. It is decadent without being cloying.
The Recipe: 2 oz espresso + 1.5 oz Licor 43 + 0.5 oz heavy cream. Garnish with coffee beans and grated nutmeg.
👉 Get the Creamy Carajillo recipe
Which Carajillo Is Right for You?
| If You Like... | Try This |
|---|---|
| Simple and classic | Carajillo |
| Smoky and complex | Carajillo de Oaxaca |
| Warm and spiced | Spiced Carajillo |
| Spirit-forward and boozy | Bourbon Carajillo |
| Creamy and dessert-like | Creamy Carajillo |
The Verdict
The Carajillo is more than just a trend; it is the evolution of the coffee cocktail. Whether you prefer it classic, smoky, spiced, boozy, or creamy, there is a version for every palate and every season.
So, next time you need a pick-me-up, leave the vodka in the freezer and reach for the Licor 43. Your taste buds will thank you.
More Coffee Cocktails to Explore
If you love the Carajillo family, check out these other coffee-forward favorites:
- Espresso Martini — The original coffee cocktail phenomenon
- Cold Brew Martini — Smooth cold brew meets vodka
- Irish Coffee — The warming whiskey classic
Written by the Jigger & Joy Team | January 2026