Café Royale

Like most spiked coffee drinks, the café royal is simple and uses only one spirit to complement fresh-brewed, black coffee. It's extremely low-proof and a casual cocktail that has more caffeine than alcohol. This makes it perfect for an afternoon sipper or a smooth, relaxing after dinner coffee. The recipe comes from Patron Spirits and features their coffee-flavored liqueur, Patron XO Café. It's unique in that it has a tequila base that's accented with coffee essence. This rich coffee liqueur is drier and lacks the sweetness of its common counterparts. Quite simply, it transforms your average cup of java into a delightful experience.

½ oz Patron XO Café coffee liqueur
6 oz black coffee

Garnish:
whipped cream
cocoa powder

In a heated coffee mug, pour the Patrón XO Café.

Fill to within 1" of the top with coffee.

Top with fresh whipped cream and dust with cocoa powder.

Pour as much coffee liqueur as you like. The recommended ½ oz is very small and you might like to give it a boost with a full shot (1½ oz).

The key to an impressive coffee cocktail begins with the coffee. Take the time to brew the richest, most flavorful coffee you can.

Though it is really nice, you can skip the fresh whipped cream and use a whipped topping instead. The pressurized can version makes it easy to top cocktails.

Makes 1 drink.