How To Make Moroccan Coffee Cocktail Recipe

Moroccan coffee cocktail recipe infuses traditional coffee with an array of rich, warm flavors and a kick of alcohol to bring a whole new level of sophistication to your beverage experience. 

This beverage is definitely one of the good ideas that Moroccans had when creating coffee drinks, with the exception of Moroccan mint tea.  

Whether you’re looking to wow your guests at your next dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a luxurious coffee experience, these remarkable concoctions will leave you craving more.

At the core of a Moroccan coffee cocktail are warm spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg that create a unique and delicious foundation for this marriage of coffee and alcohol. 

If you love your coffee black, add in a touch of brandy or cognac, and you’ve got yourself a cafe noir cocktail that is full of depth and character.

We’ve got the scoop on the world of Moroccan coffee cocktails and explore different recipes and variations to help you find the one that perfectly suits your palate. 

So, let’s embark on a journey that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also educate you on how to master the art of crafting these libations.

For those of you in the United States, get ready to take a trip overseas to enjoy some Moroccan spiced coffee, which you’ll be sure to make your new breakfast drink. 

Get ready because it’s coffee time! 

The History of Moroccan Coffee

Moroccan coffee, known for its unique blend of spices and flavors, originated in the vibrant country of Morocco. 

As a nation with a rich history and strong connections to the Arabic world, Morocco quickly adopted coffee during the expansion of the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century. 

This introduction led to the development of a distinct Moroccan coffee culture that continued to evolve over centuries, especially in the 18th century.

In the early days of coffee consumption in Morocco, locals experimented with imported beans and traditional Moroccan spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. 

This infusion of fragrant spices led to the creation of a unique coffee blend, which eventually became a signature beverage in the country.

Coffee

Moroccan coffee culture grew alongside the popularity of tea, another beverage that has become iconic in Moroccan society. 

Over time, coffeehouses, known as “cafés,” started to emerge throughout the nation. 

Due to the fact that Morocco was once colonized by France, their café culture is largely a result of French influence.

The French essentially established places where people could go sit down and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee in Morocco.

So, if you ever visit Morocco and end up stopping by a coffee shop, you may find yourself feeling as though you’re sitting in one of those vintage French cafes with a classic and sophisticated ambiance, as you listen to French speakers conversing freely around you. 

These public spaces played a critical role in Moroccan society’s development, offering meeting places for discussions and social events.

In recent years, the Moroccan coffee shop culture has seen somewhat of a revival, with modern Moroccan and international coffee shops continuing the tradition of flavorful coffee blends. 

While the brewing methods and serving styles have evolved, the core ingredients – coffee, spices, white sugar cubes, and sometimes whole milk (or au lait) – remain the same.

Today, the Moroccan coffee scene offers locals and visitors the chance to try various coffee recipes, ranging from traditional spiced Moroccan coffee to specialty beverages like Moroccan coffee cocktails. 

Morocco remains a vibrant hub for coffee enthusiasts and younger generations who appreciate the aromatic flavors and rich history of this distinct drink.

The Moroccan Coffee Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

For a delightful Moroccan coffee cocktail, gather the following ingredients, which can be purchased at your local grocery stores:

• 1 oz. brandy
• 1 oz. freshly brewed strong coffee
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
• 1/2 oz Irish cream (or heavy cream)
• Crushed ice
• Whipped cream (optional)
• A little black pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. The starting point of this recipe is to grind your favorite fragrant blend of dark coffee roast beans. Use a coffee grinder to create a fine grind suitable for a French press.
2. Measure 180g to 200g of boiling water over the coffee grounds in the French press. Allow the coffee to brew for four minutes, and then gently plunge it with even pressure.
3. In a shaker, combine the brewed coffee, brandy, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, coffee liqueur, and Irish cream (the optional milk could be used too). The addition of spices is essentially what makes this Moroccan drink different from traditional Irish coffees which also use Irish cream.
4. Fill the shaker with crushed ice, and shake vigorously to combine all the ingredients and create a smooth, creamy texture.
5. Strain the mixture into a glass, leaving enough room at the top for whipped cream if desired.
6. Top the cocktail with whipped cream, and garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.

Enjoy your Moroccan coffee cocktail as a warm, spicy, and creamy treat that perfectly balances notes of sweetness and spice with the boldness of coffee.

You may want to swap your traditional cup of coffee for this Moroccan beverage to keep toasty and cozy during late afternoons.  

Note: You can also make a cold brew version of this recipe by simply incorporating cold water instead of boiling water into the recipe for a more familiar, American-style coffee experience.  

If you don’t have dark coffee roast beans, or you don’t like the bitterness of the coffee beans, make use of any instant coffee lying around in your kitchen. 

Nous Nous and Moroccan Latte

Nous Nous is a traditional Moroccan coffee beverage that has gained popularity among coffee enthusiasts. 

The term “Nous Nous” translates to “half-half” in English, which refers to the equal parts of coffee and milk used in this recipe. 

Moroccan lattes, on the other hand, have a similar concept but are richer and more flavored in comparison.

Moroccan coffee is often considered among the best coffee in the world due to its perfect balance of flavors and strength. 

With a taste and aroma that is both delightful and unique, Moroccan coffee comes in various forms, such as dark roast coffee, medium roast coffee, and even the highly-prized Kona coffee.

In making Nous Nous, or a delicious half espresso and half milk drink, you’ll need:

• 1/2 glass of milk
• 1 shot of espresso
• Sugar (optional)

1. Start by warming the milk in a small saucepan or microwave.
2. Use espresso or coffee machines or a moka pot to prepare the espresso shot.
3. While the milk is warming, pour the espresso into a glass.
4. Once the milk is warm, froth it using a frother wand or the steam wand of an espresso machine.
5. Pour the frothy milk over the small cup or espresso, and add sugar (brown or white sugar) if desired to your nous nous coffee.

Now, let’s move on to the Moroccan Latte. 

This delightful beverage, also referred to as qahwa ma’atra, highlights the flavors of a traditional Moroccan coffee with the inclusion of aromatic spices, such as cardamom pods, cinnamon, and ginger. 

To make a Moroccan Latte, gather these ingredients for a perfect cup of coffee:

• 1 shot of espresso
• 1 cup of milk
• 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 3 cardamom pods, crushed

1. Start by brewing the small cup of espresso using dark roast coffee or medium roast coffee.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the milk and add the spices: ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and crushed cardamom pods.
3. Allow the milk to gently simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors of the spices.
4. Use a frother wand or an espresso machine to froth the spiced milk.
5. Pour the espresso into a glass, then top with the frothy spiced milk mixture.

Both Nous Nous and Moroccan Latte offer a delightful experience for a coffee lover, as they explore the unique and rich flavors of Moroccan coffee. 

Enjoy these beverages as a treat to yourself, or share them with friends and family for a taste of Moroccan culture in every sip.

The Perfect Coffee Bean

When it comes to crafting a Moroccan coffee cocktail, selecting the perfect coffee bean is paramount. 

There are several factors to consider, including the type of bean, the roast, and the origin. 

In this section, we will explore these attributes and help you choose the best coffee bean for your Moroccan coffee cocktail.

Whole beans are always an ideal choice for the best flavor and aroma. 

Grinding the beans right before brewing releases volatile compounds that contribute to the coffee’s unique flavor.

Pre-ground coffee, on the other hand, loses some of its freshness and flavor over time.

Arabica beans are a popular choice among coffee connoisseurs for their complex and nuanced flavors. 

They possess a subtle, yet remarkable flavor profile that complements the spices and brandy in a Moroccan coffee cocktail. 

Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, a variety of Arabica, is particularly well-suited for this application, given its floral and earthy notes.

The roast level of the coffee bean can have a significant impact on the flavor of your Moroccan coffee cocktail. 

A light to medium roast is typically preferred for its bright, acidic, and fruity characteristics that blend harmoniously with the spices in the recipe.

Here is a summary of recommended coffee bean attributes for a Moroccan coffee cocktail:

• Type of bean: Arabica (preferably Ethiopian Yirgacheffe)
• Roast level: Light to medium
• Form: Whole beans (grind before brewing)

Hot milk is often used in traditional Moroccan coffee recipes to add creaminess and a smooth texture. 

Using hot milk in your coffee cocktail will not only enhance the overall mouthfeel but also help to balance the potent flavors of the good coffee, spices, and brandy.

By selecting high-quality, freshly ground Arabica beans and incorporating hot milk, you can create a Moroccan coffee cocktail that boasts a unique, inviting flavor profile that is both complex and harmonious.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For a delightful experience when enjoying a Moroccan coffee cocktail, you may want to consider some of the following serving suggestions and pairings. 

These ideas will help elevate your beverage and provide a well-rounded experience for your taste buds.

Moroccan coffee cocktails are often sweet and spiced, making them a perfect accompaniment to desserts. 

Consider pairing one of the best dessert drinks with:

• Honey: Drizzle a small amount of honey over the rim of your glass as a garnish, or simply include a teaspoon of honey in the cocktail to add a subtle layer of natural sweetness.
• Freshly ground spices: Adding a pinch of freshly ground cardamom, nutmeg, or cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile of the coffee cocktail and create a warming sensation when drinking your Moroccan spicy coffee, especially in colder months.
• Whole bean coffee: For a richer coffee flavor, you can opt to use whole bean coffee that’s freshly ground just before brewing. This will bring out the best of the coffee’s aroma and taste.

As well as this, you could try adding vanilla extract, orange blossom water (or orange flower water), triple sec, or coconut milk to further enhance the flavor of the black coffee. 

When it comes to food pairings, consider indulging in sweet and savory treats that complement the flavors in the Moroccan coffee cocktail. 

Some good food options include:

• Dates: These naturally sweet fruits are commonly enjoyed in Moroccan cuisine, and their chewy texture is a nice match for the rich and smooth coffee cocktail. This is a great way to sweeten up your  coffee experience while sticking to your nutritional daily values by keeping a low calorie diet.  
• Cookies: Traditional Moroccan cookies, such as ghriba or fekkas, are a delightful accompaniment to the cocktail, as they soak up the flavors and add a satisfying crunch.
• Desserts: To round out the experience, consider pairing your Moroccan coffee cocktail with a tasty dessert. Options may include a spiced chocolate cake, almond pastries, or a cardamom infused panna cotta. Each dessert will bring out the unique flavors of the cocktail while providing a satisfying end to your meal.

Remember to present your Moroccan coffee cocktail in a visually appealing manner. 

Using a decorative glass, a cinnamon stick as a garnish, or even a sugar rim can enhance the overall presentation and make the experience even more enjoyable for you and your guests.

Coffee Brewing Methods

The Moroccan coffee cocktail recipe can be prepared with a variety of coffee brewing methods. 

Depending on your personal preference and the equipment you have at hand, you can choose the most suitable one to brew your coffee. 

Here’s the scoop on a few popular methods, such as French press and pour over, that are well-suited to brewing Moroccan coffee.

French Press

The French press is a popular method for making coffee that many people enjoy using for its simplicity and rich flavors. 

In order to make coffee for your Moroccan coffee cocktail using a French press, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the spiced coffee beans. Combine the beans and spices – typically cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg – in your coffee grinder prior to grinding.
2. Measure out the spiced ground coffee: use about 1 to 2 tablespoons per serving.
3. Boil water and let it cool slightly.
4. Add the spiced ground coffee to your French press.
5. Pour the hot water over the coffee, allowing it to steep for approximately 4 minutes.
6. Slowly press down the plunger and pour the coffee into a glass.

This method will typically yield a bolder, more full-bodied coffee which can help balance the flavors in a Moroccan coffee cocktail.

Pour Over

Pour over is another method that you can use to achieve a smooth, light coffee flavor. 

To make coffee using the pour over method for your Moroccan coffee cocktail:

1. Prepare the spiced coffee beans as mentioned above.
2. Place a paper or reusable filter in your pour over coffee maker
3. Measure the spiced ground coffee in the filter, using about 1 to 2 tablespoons per serving.
4. Boil water and pour a small amount over the coffee to allow it to bloom for 30 seconds.
5. Slowly pour the remaining water in a circular motion over the coffee grounds.
6. The coffee will drip into your container below.

With the pour over method, you will achieve a cleaner and more nuanced flavor, which may complement the spices used in the Moroccan coffee cocktail.

In Moroccan culture, the traditional way to prepare coffee often involves boiling coffee grounds directly in water, sometimes on the stove. 

This method can also be employed for an authentic Moroccan coffee experience. 

However, as the taste of coffee is subjective, you may prefer to experiment with the brewing methods mentioned above to achieve the desired flavor for your Moroccan coffee cocktail.

Variations and Mixology

A Moroccan coffee cocktail is a delightful blend of coffee, liquor, and spices: a perfect drink to add to your mixology repertoire. 

If you’re looking to experiment with various flavors and techniques, here are some potential variations you can try.

Traditional with a Twist:

One way to make a Moroccan coffee cocktail is by using cognac, coffee, and sweetened condensed milk. 

Blend these ingredients together in a blender for a creative spin on the classic recipe. 

Ensure that the evening drink is smooth and creamy. 

Pour it into a glass and serve it to your guests or enjoy it yourself.

Sweet and Spiced: 

To add more depth to the cocktail, incorporate spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. 

Mix a brewed coffee with a liquor of your preference, such as brandy or rum, and combine it with 1/4 tsp of each spice. 

Shake this mixture with ice, strain it, and pour it into your glass.

Bonus tip: 

If you want to elevate the presentation of your Moroccan coffee cocktail, try serving it with a sugared rim on the glass. 

Simply moisten the rim of the glass with water (could be from a small bottle of water) or lemon, and dip it into a plate of sugar, ensuring an even coat.

Mint Tea Alternative: 

For a non-alcoholic version, or to cater to tea-loving guests, consider swapping out the coffee for Moroccan mint tea. 

Follow the same methodology as the variations mentioned above, but use brewed mint tea as your base.

Serving at a Restaurant: 

Should you decide to include a Moroccan coffee cocktail on your restaurant’s menu, remember to showcase the variations and personalized touches you can offer. 

Whether it’s adding different types of liquor, using a flavored simple syrup, or garnishing with whipped cream, encouraging your mixologist to experiment will make your establishment stand out.

There are a variety of adaptations you can make to the Moroccan coffee cocktail to suit your preferences and those of your guests. 

By experimenting with various ingredients and techniques, you will surely become a master mixologist of this delicious and exotic drink.

Understanding Personal Taste and Preferences

When it comes to enjoying a Moroccan coffee cocktail, personal taste and preferences play a significant role. 

As a result, it is essential to find the right balance of flavors and ingredients that suit your palate.

One key aspect to consider is the choice of coffee beans. 

Different beans have unique flavor profiles that can impact the overall taste of the cocktail. 

It is worth experimenting with various origins and roasts to find the one that best complements the cocktail’s other ingredients.

• Arabica beans: generally milder, more nuanced flavors (similar to Arabic coffee)
• Robusta beans: stronger, more robust taste and higher caffeine content (often used in Spanish coffee) 

Another element of personal preferences involves the choice of spices. 

The traditional Moroccan coffee cocktail recipe calls for a mix of spices, such as ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. 

However, there is room for creativity and adaptation according to your taste buds. 

You may want to:

• Increase or decrease the amount of each spice
• Add or remove other spices, like cardamom, cloves or allspice

The type of sweetener used can also affect the final taste of the cocktail. 

Although some recipes suggest using sweetened condensed milk, others might prefer alternative options. 

Here are a few possibilities to explore:

• Honey
• Agave syrup
• Brown sugar
• Stevia or other sugar substitutes

Lastly, the choice of alcohol in a Moroccan coffee cocktail comes down to personal preference. 

Brandy or cognac are common choices, but you can try other spirits such as rum or whisky if preferred. 

Just make sure the selected alcohol pairs well with the coffee and spices.

By understanding and experimenting with these different aspects, you can tailor-make a Moroccan coffee cocktail that reflects your own taste and preferences while still preserving the essence of the classic recipe.

A Cultural Experience

The Moroccan Coffee Cocktail is a delightful beverage that combines the rich flavors of spiced coffee with the warmth of brandy. 

This enticing drink has become a popular choice for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Moroccan culture. 

The combination of aromatic spices and alcohol creates a unique experience for one’s taste buds, invoking thoughts of bustling markets, ancient cities, and warm desert nights.

Moroccan coffee traditionally calls for a blend of spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, which are mixed with coffee beans before brewing. 

This spiced coffee creates the perfect base for a delectable cocktail. 

When combined with warm milk, the spiced coffee mellows out and soothes the palate, providing an excellent non-alcoholic alternative for those who prefer to skip the whiskey.

For an avid coffee drinker who enjoys an extra kick, whiskey adds a bold flavor and strength to the Moroccan Coffee Cocktail, perfectly complementing the rich spices.  

Similar to Irish coffee, the addition of whiskey creates a lovely contrast between the hot coffee and the cool liqueur. 

Such a well-balanced cocktail is sure to transport you right to the heart of Morocco.

The Moroccan Coffee Cocktail has something for everyone, be it visitors seeking to sample Moroccan flavors or the purest coffee drinkers who simply appreciate a warm, spiced beverage. 

This interesting and delectable kind of coffee is great to make for any special occasion, especially when celebrating the new year.

With varying options of adding warm milk or whiskey, there are countless ways to savor and personalize this cultural experience, one of them being to make these popular drinks at home.

Remember to enjoy this coffee beverage with some good food as well. 

Moroccan Coffee Cocktail Ingredients:

• 1 oz. brandy or whiskey
• 1 oz. coffee
• 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
• Optional: warm milk to taste 

Feel free to add your email to one of our mailing lists for more wonderfully delicious Moroccan coffee recipes. 

Final Thoughts

The Moroccan coffee cocktail recipe is a captivating fusion of tradition and innovation, offering a delightful twist to the classic coffee experience.

With its unique blend of aromatic spices, velvety coffee, and a touch of sweetness, this beverage transports the taste buds to the vibrant streets of Morocco.

The rich flavors and alluring aroma create a captivating sensory experience that lingers long after the last sip.

Whether enjoyed as an after-dinner indulgence or a social gathering centerpiece, this Moroccan coffee cocktail is sure to impress and delight.

So, embrace the allure of this enchanting recipe, and savor the exotic flavors that bring a taste of Morocco’s coffee culture right to your cup.

Cheers to the art of coffee and the intrigue of international flavors!

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