Nutty Irishman: Recipe Guide

Nutty IrishMan
Equipment
- Equipment Needed: Shaker, Jigger, Glass, Spoon
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 1 oz Irish Cream Liqueur like Baileys
- 1 oz Frangelico hazelnut liqueur
- 2 oz Coffee brewed and cooled
- 1 oz Heavy Cream or milk for a lighter option
- Ice for shaking
- Chocolate Shavings or Cocoa Powder for garnish
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and equipment. Brew a fresh cup of coffee and let it cool down slightly.
- Fill the Shaker: Add ice to a cocktail shaker, filling it halfway.
- Pour in the Liqueurs: Add the Irish cream liqueur and Frangelico to the shaker. These two liqueurs are what give the Nutty Irishman its creamy, nutty flavor.
- Add Coffee: Pour in the cooled coffee. The amount can be adjusted to taste; more coffee will make the drink less sweet.
- Shake: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake gently for about 15 seconds. You want the mixture to chill but not dilute too much.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled glass or a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Finish with Cream: Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the drink. This creates a beautiful layered effect.
- Garnish: Top with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra treat.
- Variations
- Nutty Irishman Float: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the drink for a dessert-style treat.
- Cold Brew Version: Swap out brewed coffee for cold brew coffee to enjoy it chilled without shaking.
- Nut-Free Alternative: If nut allergies are a concern, use a coffee liqueur instead of Frangelico.
If you’re looking for a delightful cocktail that combines the flavors of coffee, cream, and a hint of nutty sweetness, the Nutty Irishman is your drink. It’s a fantastic choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. Let me show you how I make this creamy concoction that’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to pair with desserts or stand alone as a treat.

Behind the History of the Nutty Irishman
The Nutty Irishman may not go as far back as classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, but it has still earned a place in the hearts of coffee and liqueur lovers. This drink popped up in bars around the 1980s, during a time when Irish cream was starting to gain real popularity worldwide, especially thanks to brands like Baileys.
The name comes from its two main ingredients: Irish cream and hazelnut liqueur. Together, they create a rich, sweet, and nutty combo that’s smooth and comforting. It’s the kind of drink people started enjoying as an after-dinner treat or even as a creamy brunch cocktail. Over time, bartenders began to give it a twist by adding fresh-brewed coffee or topping it off with whipped cream or chocolate shavings.
Even though it doesn’t have a long, mysterious past, the Nutty Irishman became one of those reliable feel-good drinks you see pop up on bar menus every holiday season. It’s also become a favorite at weddings, dinner parties, and casual nights when people want something a little sweet without going overboard.
It’s simple, it’s cozy, and it’s got that smooth Irish charm, no wonder it’s stuck around.
Notes on What to Expect
The Nutty Irishman is rich, creamy, and has a delightful nutty flavor, making it a perfect dessert cocktail. The combination of the coffee with the liqueurs creates a well-rounded taste that’s both comforting and indulgent. It pairs beautifully with desserts like brownies or chocolate cake but can also be enjoyed on its own.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 1 oz Irish Cream Liqueur (like Baileys)
- 1 oz Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur)
- 2 oz Coffee (brewed and cooled)
- 1 oz Heavy Cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- Ice (for shaking)
- Chocolate Shavings or Cocoa Powder (for garnish)
- Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making #nuttyirishman here
Meal Facts
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Time to Stand: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Ease of Cooking: Easy
- Servings: 1
- Calories: Approximately 290 calories per serving
- Cost of Ingredients: $5-$10 (depends on liqueur brands)
- Cuisine: Irish
- Course: Cocktail
- Equipment Needed: Shaker, Jigger, Glass, Spoon
Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making #nuttyirishman here
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and equipment. Brew a fresh cup of coffee and let it cool down slightly.
- Fill the Shaker: Add ice to a cocktail shaker, filling it halfway.
- Pour in the Liqueurs: Add the Irish cream liqueur and Frangelico to the shaker. These two liqueurs are what give the Nutty Irishman its creamy, nutty flavor.
- Add Coffee: Pour in the cooled coffee. The amount can be adjusted to taste; more coffee will make the drink less sweet.
- Shake: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake gently for about 15 seconds. You want the mixture to chill but not dilute too much.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled glass or a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Finish with Cream: Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the drink. This creates a beautiful layered effect.
- Garnish: Top with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra treat.
Variations
- Nutty Irishman Float: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the drink for a dessert-style treat.
- Cold Brew Version: Swap out brewed coffee for cold brew coffee to enjoy it chilled without shaking.
- Nut-Free Alternative: If nut allergies are a concern, use a coffee liqueur instead of Frangelico.
Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making #nuttyirishman here
Tips and Substitutions
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk to make it dairy-free.
- Sweetness Control: Adjust the amount of Irish cream liqueur for a sweeter or less sweet drink based on personal preference.
Nutritional Information
- Total Calories: Approximately 290 calories per serving (calories may vary based on specific brands and amounts used).
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 3g
Troubleshooting Tips
- Too Sweet? If the drink is too sweet, add more coffee to balance the flavors.
- Cream Sinking: If the cream sinks instead of floating, try pouring it more slowly over the back of the spoon.
Conclusion
The Nutty Irishman is a perfect blend of flavors, ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or celebrating with friends, this cocktail is sure to impress. From my own personal experience, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and enjoyable to sip. Enjoy crafting this delightful drink, and remember, experimenting with variations can lead to new favorites.