Popular Coffee Kahlua Recipes for Every Taste

Classic coffee with Kahlua in a mug with whipped cream

Few combinations feel as instantly comforting as coffee and Kahlua. From classic hot drinks to indulgent iced creations, these Kahlua coffee recipes reveal why coffee liqueur is as at home in your mug as it is in the cocktail shaker. Below you’ll find a variety of coffee Kahlua drinks, with clear instructions and practical tips for home bartenders and coffee lovers alike.

Classic Kahlua Coffee

This foundational coffee Kahlua recipe requires just two ingredients, resulting in a warm, satisfying drink perfect for cool evenings or after dinner.

180 ml freshly brewed hot coffee
30 ml Kahlua
Optional: whipped cream, grated chocolate or cinnamon for garnish

Pour the hot coffee into a sturdy mug.
Add 30 ml Kahlua and stir gently to combine.
Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and garnish if desired.

Iced Kahlua Coffee

For a refreshing summer treat, this recipe combines chilled coffee and Kahlua over ice, with a creamy optional twist. It’s quick, cool, and easily customizable.

120 ml cold brew or chilled coffee
30 ml Kahlua
Ice cubes
Optional: 30 ml milk or cream

Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Pour in the cold coffee and Kahlua.
Stir gently. Add milk or cream for a smoother finish, if desired.

Iced coffee with Kahlua in a rocks glass

Espresso Martini with Kahlua

The espresso martini is a favorite among coffee cocktail recipes, known for its rich crema and bold flavor. Using Kahlua as the coffee liqueur adds a deeper, slightly sweet finish.

30 ml fresh espresso (slightly cooled)
30 ml Kahlua
45 ml vodka
Ice cubes
Optional: coffee beans for garnish

Add vodka, Kahlua, and espresso to a shaker filled with ice.
Shake very vigorously for at least 12 seconds to build a rich foam.
Fine strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
Add three coffee beans on top for a classic touch, if liked.

Espresso martini with Kahlua in a coupe glass with coffee beans

White Russian: Kahlua Coffee Cocktail Classic

The White Russian uses Kahlua’s coffee depth as a base for its creamy comfort. Easy to assemble, this recipe makes a perfect after-dinner drink or lounging nightcap.

40 ml vodka
25 ml Kahlua
30 ml cream or full-fat milk
Ice cubes

Add plenty of ice to a rocks glass.
Pour in vodka and Kahlua, stir gently to blend.
Float cream over the top by pouring slowly over the back of a spoon.

Tips for Using Kahlua in Coffee Drinks

Choose freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor—both filter and espresso styles work well.
Don’t limit yourself to hot drinks: chilled and iced recipes bring out Kahlua’s natural sweetness and depth.
Swap cream for oat or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
To boost the chocolate note, grate a little dark chocolate or stir in 5 ml chocolate syrup.