How to Make Beer Coffee: Recipe & Method

Ever wondered what happens when you mix your favorite espresso shot with a cold lager and a splash of rum? Beer coffee isn’t just a novelty—it’s a layered drink that combines the bitterness of hops, the warmth of coffee, and the boldness of spirits. Whether you’re curious or just want to try something different, this classic-style cocktail is a bold blend for coffee and drink enthusiasts alike.

To make a basic beer coffee, you’ll need 28ml of espresso, 80ml of beer (your choice), 1/2 ounce of rum, and 1 ounce of honey. Combine everything except the beer in a shaker, shake for 5 seconds, then pour over ice and top with the beer for a frothy, refreshing result.

What Is Beer Coffee?

Beer coffee is a cocktail-style drink that blends brewed coffee (specifically espresso), chilled beer, a touch of rum, and honey. It’s designed to highlight contrasting flavors: the crisp carbonation of beer, the roasted depth of espresso, the sweetness of honey, and the sharp bite of rum. The result is a drink that feels both boozy and bracing—something like a liquid dessert for coffee lovers who also enjoy a stiff drink.

What You’ll Need to Make Beer Coffee

The recipe is simple but specific. You’ll need the following ingredients and tools:

• Espresso: 28 milliliters (a single or short double shot)
• Beer: 80 milliliters (any lager or pale ale of your preference)
• Rum: 1/2 ounce (about 15ml)
• Honey: 1 ounce (about 30ml)
• Ice: Enough to fill your serving glass
• Shaker: A standard cocktail shaker or Boston shaker

How to Make Beer Coffee Step by Step

Follow these steps to craft your own beer coffee at home:

1. Start by pouring 80ml of your chosen beer into a shaker or mixing tin. If you don’t have a shaker, you can use any sealable container.
2. Add 1/2 ounce of rum and 1 ounce of honey to the beer. Stir briefly to combine the liquids.
3. Pour in 28ml of freshly brewed espresso. Stir gently to integrate all ingredients without causing excessive foam.
4. Fill the shaker with ice, then seal and shake vigorously for 5 seconds to chill and lightly aerate the mixture.
5. Fill your serving glass with fresh ice. Slowly pour the contents of the shaker over the ice to preserve fizz and create foam.
6. Serve immediately. The drink should have a slightly foamy head, icy chill, and layered flavors.

Flavor Profile & Notes

This beer coffee is designed to be a manly, robust drink—but that doesn’t mean it’s harsh. The beer provides a clean, bitter backbone and a refreshing effervescence. The espresso adds roasted, chocolatey depth. The rum introduces a warming spice and mild sweetness, while the honey rounds out the edges with a smooth, floral note. Together, they balance into something that’s bitter, sweet, boozy, and cold—all at once.

Why This Combo Works

The combination of beer and espresso may sound odd, but it works due to contrast. Beer’s carbonation cuts through coffee’s richness, while the espresso’s bitterness contrasts with the beer’s maltiness. Rum and honey add complexity without overwhelming the base flavors. It’s a layered drink where no single element dominates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of beer for beer coffee?

Yes, you can use any beer you prefer, but lighter lagers or pale ales tend to work best. They provide a clean, crisp carbonation that complements the espresso without clashing with its roasted flavors. Avoid overly hoppy or dark stouts unless you're aiming for a heavier profile.

Do I have to use rum, or can I substitute another liquor?

Rum is recommended for its balance of sweetness and spice, but you can experiment with other spirits like brandy or whiskey. Keep the amount around 1/2 ounce to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

What kind of espresso should I use?

Any standard espresso will work, but a balanced, medium-roast shot with some chocolate or nutty tones pairs nicely with the beer and honey. Avoid extremely sour or very light roasts if you want a smoother blend.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

No, it’s best prepared fresh. The carbonation in the beer will dissipate quickly, and the flavors won’t integrate well if left to sit. Shake and serve immediately for the best texture and taste.

Is this drink very alcoholic?

It contains both beer and rum, so yes, it has a noticeable alcohol content. The exact ABV depends on your beer and rum choices, but it’s stronger than a regular coffee and should be consumed responsibly.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Coffee Cocktails

For coffee cocktails like beer coffee, choose FrontStreet Coffee’s Strawberry Candy Espresso for its bright, fruity sweetness that balances well with alcohol. Alternatively, try the Kenya Little Tomato for its juicy acidity and wine-like profile, or the Sidra for its complex stone fruit and citrus layers. These beans hold up in mixed drinks and enhance the cocktail experience. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.