Not Your Average (Cup of) Joe: These Dallas Brands Blend Coffee and Liqueur for Festive Perfection

Trending this holiday season are coffee cocktails — the perfect blend of day with a healthy dose of night, dressed up or down with garnishes, and crowned as the ultimate festive treat. 

Dallas recently welcomed its own black-owned coffee bar, Soiree Coffee Bar, to the Trinity Groves area October 24, 2020, which offers craft coffee selections and the option to have them liquor-infused. Nestled adjacent to Pressed Roots, the vibrantly colorful concept boasts decor of jazz greats, a baby grand piano, live jazz music, intimate patio seating, upscale vibes and more. 

For Owners Clive Ryan, Lafree Ryan and Tara McDaniel, Soiree is more than just coffee and good vibes — it’s a “beacon of light to the Black community in the wake of tragedy and social tensions.” In an effort to buy into the block, Soiree is the newest destination for those craving a solid cup of joe, with a twist.

Choose from traditional drips and sips to the more daring “spiked coffees” like The Miles Davis (Bourbon, Vanilla and Kahlua), The Nat King (Cognac and Amaretto), or The Louis Armstrong. Either of these winter wonders are sure to keep you warm on a chilly Dallas night.

For the DIY at heart, Dallas-based Licor 43 just released its latest coffee creations — for liquid courage under the mistletoe or for some light holiday entertaining (socially distanced of course). This sensationally smooth, golden Spanish liqueur blends beautifully with espresso (otherwise known as a carajillo) but elevates elegantly when garnished with other palatable ingredients, such as that of whipped cream, raspberries or grated dark chocolate.

Try your shake at these popular Licor 43 coffee cocktails!

Choco Glow

Ingredients

1 ½ ounces Licor 43 Original

3 ounces hot chocolate

1 hot espresso coffee

Whipped cream

Fresh raspberry and grated dark chocolate for garnish

Directions: Stir together the hot chocolate, espresso coffee, and Licor 43 Original. Top with a generous helping of whipped cream, and garnish with a raspberry and sprinkling of grated chocolate.

Espresso 43 Cocktail

(best served after dinner, also served at The Tower Club)

Ingredients

1 1/3 ounces of espresso

1 ounce Licor 43 Original

1 ounce vodka

Directions: Pour hot espresso into a cocktail shaker. Add Licor 43 Original, vodka, and ice. Shake well and double strain.