Espresso martinis are out – Spanish version of the popular coffee cocktail is taking over bars

A TASTY coffee cocktail is set to become the drink of the summer, and it’s not an espresso martini. Originating in Spain, this perfectly-balanced beverage even offers a refreshing orange zest. The carajillo cocktail is taking over as the new drink of the summer (stock image) Credit: Getty The boozy coffee consists of equal parts Licor 43 and chilled espresso (stock image) Credit: Getty The carajillo, (pronounced caah-raah-hee-yo), is even easier to make than an espresso martini. It can be whipped up in a matter of seconds using just two ingredients, leaving you with the ideal digestif. Sign up for the Fabulous newsletter Thank you! Simply mix equal parts Licor 43 and chilled espresso and shake over ice before garnishing with orange zest. While it has been compared to the ever-popular espresso martini, this drink is more in line with an Irish Coffee or an Italian Caffe Corretto. Served in a tumbler, this drink resembles a frothy old fashioned, and includes notes of vanilla, orange peel, and cocoa to create a delicately spiced flavour. The drink is believed to have derived its name from the Spanish word “coraje”, which means courage. Spanish soldiers stationed in Cuba reportedly laced their coffee with spirits to give themselves liquid courage before battle. The boozy coffee drink eventually made its way over to Mexico and is now one of the country’s most widely-ordered drinks, especially as a post-meal digestif. Most read in Fabulous Spanish tradition involves adding three coffee beans to the frothy head of this drink before serving to represent health, wealth, and happiness. If you’re looking to order a carajillo in the UK, your best bet might be at a tapas bar. Comment now