Cafe Brulot(Spiced Coffee With Brandy)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 26 Cuisine: American

Cafe Brulot is a dramatic and aromatic spiced coffee drink with a hint of brandy and citrus. Its fiery presentation and rich flavors make it perfect for special gatherings or cozy evenings. The combination of orange, lemon, cinnamon, and cloves creates a warm, inviting experience that impresses guests.

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Ingredients

  • Rind from one orange, cut into fine julienne strips
  • Rind from one lemon, cut into fine julienne strips
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 6 cinnamon sticks
  • 16 cloves
  • 1 1/2 cups brandy
  • 1/2 cup orange-flavored liqueur
  • 8 cups hot very strong coffee

Instructions

  1. In a heatproof punch bowl, combine the orange rind, lemon rind, and sugar.
  2. Mash the mixture gently with the back of a spoon. Add cinnamon sticks and cloves; toss into the mixture.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine the brandy and liqueur; heat over low heat until warm.
  4. Pour three-quarters of the liquor over the orange, lemon, sugar mixture.
  5. Ignite the remaining liquor and pour it, flaming, into the bowl.
  6. While still flaming, add the hot coffee gradually.
  7. When the flames go out, stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  8. Ladle into cups and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavors, consider substituting the orange-flavored liqueur with a citrus-infused vodka for a different twist. If you prefer a less sweet beverage, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup. Ensure your coffee is brewed strong to balance the sweetness and richness of the brandy. Always use a heatproof bowl for safety when igniting the liquor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cafe Brulot in heatproof mugs, garnished with a twist of orange or lemon peel for an aromatic touch. It pairs beautifully with a slice of pie from the Pie Crust Recipe(Makes Top And Bottom Crusts For A 9-Inch Pie) or a light dessert like the Garden Citrus Salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Cafe Brulot is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, avoiding boiling, to retain the flavors without losing the alcohol content. Stir well before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cafe Brulot(Spiced Coffee With Brandy) contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

34 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.7g 1% DV
Total Fat 1g 1% DV
Carbs 8.1g 3% DV
Fiber 2.4g 9% DV
Sugar 2.5g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 20.3mg 1% DV
Potassium 141.2mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.2mcg
Vitamin C 6.9mg 8% DV
Calcium 48.8mg 4% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cafe Brulot non-alcoholic?

Yes, you can create a non-alcoholic version by replacing the brandy and liqueur with additional strong coffee and a splash of orange juice. The spices and citrus will still provide a vibrant flavor, making it a delightful alternative for those avoiding alcohol.

What type of coffee should I use?

Use a very strong coffee, ideally a dark roast or espresso, to ensure it stands up to the flavors of the spices and the brandy. A robust brew will complement the sweetness and enhance the overall richness of the Cafe Brulot.

Can I prepare this drink in advance?

While the mixture can be prepared ahead of time, it’s best to add the hot coffee and ignite the liquor just before serving to maintain the optimal flavor and presentation. Preparing the components in advance will save time but ensure you follow through with the final steps at the moment of serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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