description Café Royal Overview
The Café Royal is a classic hot coffee cocktail traditionally made with strong black coffee, brandy or cognac, and sugar. It is often prepared by flaming the brandy with sugar to create a caramelized syrup before adding the coffee, though recipes vary. The drink is frequently finished with a layer of lightly whipped cream floated on top, omitting additional sugar. It is served in a warmed mug or glass and is intended as an after-dinner digestif for coffee and spirit enthusiasts.
help Café Royal FAQ
What is in a Café Royal?
A Café Royal is traditionally made with strong black coffee, brandy or cognac, and sugar. The combination produces a hot coffee cocktail with a sweet, spirit-forward flavor.
Why is the brandy sometimes set on fire in a Café Royal?
Some recipes flame the brandy and sugar to caramelize the sugar before adding the coffee. Flaming alcohol is a preparation technique, not a requirement for every version of the drink.
Is Café Royal the same as Irish coffee?
No. Irish coffee traditionally uses Irish whiskey, coffee, sugar, and cream, while Café Royal uses brandy or cognac and is often served without cream. The two drinks are similar because both combine hot coffee with spirits.
What type of coffee should be used for Café Royal?
A strong black coffee works best because its flavor needs to stand up to the brandy and sugar. Espresso can be used for a smaller, more concentrated drink, while brewed coffee produces a longer cocktail.
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