Everybody's Irish on March 17, which means you have the perfect excuse to enjoy an Irish coffee. You don't need to add the alcohol either—we'll help you to get the classic flavours without the booze.

Irish coffee is a beloved classic, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or celebrating St. Patrick's Day. Whether you’re enjoying it with a splash of Irish whiskey or opting for the tasty non-alcoholic version, this drink combines the bold flavour of coffee with the richness of cream for the coziest experience. Here are both the traditional and non-alcoholic versions, along with some customization tips to make your drink your own.

Ingredients for Traditional Irish Coffee with Alcohol

 1 cup of hot brewed coffee (preferably strong)

 3 tsp sugar, divided

 1 1/2 ounces of Irish whiskey (such as Jameson)

 1/4 cup 35% cream (sometimes just called whipping cream)

Instructions for Traditional Irish Coffee with Alcohol

1. Brew a strong cup of coffee.

2. Stir in 2 tsp sugar while the coffee is still hot (you can adjust the sweetness level to your taste).

3. Add 1 1/2 ounces of Irish whiskey and stir to combine.

4. Add cream and remaining sugar to the bowl of an electric mixer. Whip until soft peaks form.

5. Gently float the whipped cream on top of the coffee.

6. Serve immediately.

Ingredients for Non-Alcoholic Irish Coffee

The non-alcoholic version is just as rich and warm, and it couldn't be easier. Your Irish relatives might scoff at the missing booze but they'll have nothing to say about the taste.

 1 cup hot brewed coffee (preferably strong)

 3 tsp sugar, divided

 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

 1/4 tsp almond extract

 Pinch of cinnamon

 1/4 cup 35% cream (sometimes just called whipping cream)

Instructions for Non-Alcoholic Irish Coffee

1. Brew a strong cup of coffee.

2. Stir in 2 tsp sugar while the coffee is still hot (you can adjust the sweetness level to your taste).

3. Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract and/or a pinch of cinnamon.

4. Add cream and remaining sugar to the bowl of an electric mixer. Whip until soft peaks form.

5. Gently float the whipped cream on top of the coffee.

6. Serve immediately.

Tips and Tricks for Both Versions of Irish Coffee

  • Add 1/4 teaspoon of hazelnut extract or caramel extract to either version for a sweet, nutty twist.
  • Swap out regular sugar for maple syrup for a Canadian-Irish take on this delicious coffee drink.
  • If you're in a hurry or doing feeling like hauling out your mixer, use store-bought whipped cream. It will still be just as yummy!