How to Make Handmade Mexican Sunset and Sunrise Iced Coffee

If you’ve ever wondered how baristas made iced coffee before espresso machines were widely available in China, this retro manual recipe is the answer. Popular in the 1990s, long before professional Italian machines became common, this style of iced coffee relies on basic tools and creative layering — like the Mexican Sunset (with egg yolk at the bottom) and Mexican Sunrise (with egg yolk on top). Both are fully handmade, layered drinks that bring a nostalgic flair to any coffee menu.

To make either version, you need just six ingredients: 1oz honey, 200ml brewed coffee, one egg yolk, cream, rainbow sprinkles, 5 drops of brandy, and the right layering sequence. That’s it — no machines, just manual technique.

What Are Mexican Sunset and Sunrise Iced Coffee?

Mexican Sunset and Sunrise are vintage-style iced coffee drinks made entirely by hand. The difference? In Mexican Sunset, the egg yolk sinks to the bottom, while in Mexican Sunrise, it floats on top. Both drinks were created in the 1990s when professional coffee equipment was rare in China. Inspired by Taiwanese manual brewing methods, these drinks became a simple yet impressive way for early coffee shop owners to serve iced coffee.

Ingredients Breakdown (Per Drink)

• 1oz (30ml) honey – adds sweetness and helps mask any unwanted coffee flavors
• 200ml brewed coffee – forms the base layer
• 1 egg yolk – carefully layered for visual effect
• Cream – piped or spooned onto the surface
• Rainbow sprinkles – decorative topping
• 5 drops brandy – for aroma and finishing touch

How These Retro Coffee Drinks Came to Be

In the 1990s, the specialty coffee scene in China was still in its infancy. Professional espresso machines were scarce, so many café owners turned to simpler, manual methods inspired by Taiwanese coffee culture. These hands-on recipes required minimal equipment — a glass cup, some basic tools, and hot-brewed coffee — yet resulted in visually striking and flavorful drinks. The Mexican Sunset and Sunrise iced coffees became iconic examples of that era, blending simplicity with creativity, and they have survived to this day among traditionalists and retro coffee enthusiasts.

Step-by-Step: How to Layer Your Egg Yolk Iced Coffee

1. Start with 200ml of freshly brewed hot coffee. Let it cool to room temperature or chill it for a colder drink.
2. Add 1oz of honey to the bottom of a tall glass. This helps balance the coffee flavor and acts as a base layer.
3. Pour the cooled coffee over the honey, creating a distinct coffee-honey layer.
4. Gently slide one egg yolk down the inside edge of the glass so it either sinks (for Sunset) or stays on top (for Sunrise) depending on your desired look.
5. Top with a dollop of cream, either piped or spooned on.
6. Decorate with rainbow sprinkles and finish with 5 drops of brandy for aroma.

Why This Method Still Matters Today

Even though high-end espresso machines and modern cold brew systems dominate today’s coffee scene, these handmade drinks remain significant. They remind us that you don’t need expensive gear to create something special. The technique is simple, but the result is memorable — especially with the dramatic yolk layering. For those interested in coffee presentation or retro recipes, mastering this method can be both fun and rewarding.

Tools and Ingredients Are Easy to Source

The ingredients and tools for these drinks are widely available. You don’t need a commercial espresso setup. A basic glass cup, some honey, eggs, cream, and brewed coffee are all you need. Invest just a small amount, and you can create pro-level coffee drinks at home or in a simple café setting. The skills are straightforward, though taking a barista course will help perfect the layering and presentation for a more professional outcome.

Recommended Brewing Methods for Base Coffee

While the original recipe doesn’t specify how to brew the 200ml coffee base, using a quality brew method will greatly affect the drink’s flavor. Whether you choose pour-over, French press, or even a simple drip, aim for a balanced extraction. Avoid overly bitter or acidic profiles, as the egg yolk and honey will interact with the coffee’s flavor notes. For inspiration, consult brewing guides for different iced coffee styles, such as cold brew or iced pour-over, which emphasize clarity and fruitiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Mexican Sunset and Mexican Sunrise iced coffee?

Mexican Sunset has the egg yolk layered at the bottom of the glass, sinking below the coffee and honey, while Mexican Sunrise has the egg yolk floating on the top layer, typically under the cream. The only difference is the yolk’s placement, achieved by how you pour or slide it into the cup.

Can I use any type of coffee for this recipe?

Yes, the original recipe just calls for “” or blended coffee. However, for best results, use a balanced medium or medium-dark roast that isn’t overly bitter or sour, since it will be mixed with honey and layered with egg yolk. Avoid very light or very dark roasts that might clash with the other flavors.

Is it safe to consume raw egg yolk in coffee?

The recipe uses a raw egg yolk, which was common in 1990s recipes. If you’re concerned about safety, use pasteurized egg yolks or a very fresh egg from a trusted source. Alternatively, you could lightly cook the yolk, though that changes the texture and visual effect.

Do I need special tools to make this drink?

No special tools are required. All you need is a tall glass, something to pour the coffee and honey, and a spoon or piping tool for the cream. The technique relies on manual layering, making it ideal for home or low-equipment settings.

Where did this coffee style originate?

This style comes from 1990s China, when professional coffee equipment was rare. It was inspired by Taiwanese manual coffee-making techniques and became a creative way for early cafés to serve iced coffee with visual appeal, using simple ingredients and layering.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Iced Layered Coffee

For the base coffee in Mexican Sunset or Sunrise, choose a well-balanced brew that complements the honey and egg yolk. FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend is a great choice — medium to medium-dark roasted with notes of chocolate, nuts, and mild sweetness, making it smooth enough for layering. Alternatively, try Ethiopia Humbera for a fruitier profile if you prefer a brighter iced coffee, or Gedeb Strawberry Candy Espresso (Strawberry Candy Espresso) for a sweet, syrupy base. All are freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.