The 2-Ingredient Cocktail I’m Obsessed With Right Now

I have always loved the way coffee and citrus play together — the bright and zesty notes of citrus have this magical ability to enhance the natural richness of coffee (and chocolate), and bring out flavors you might not even notice on their own. There’s something about that balance between bold and bright that feels comforting and just a little indulgent all at once. That’s why I am such a fan of the Carajillo cocktail. I grew up in a Mexican family, and “carajo” was a word used regularly; “carajillo” would occasionally appear as a playful term of endearment, like rascal. It’s like a perfect, fuss-free version of an espresso martini — without all the complicated steps of extra ingredients. 

Two simple components — espresso and sweet, citrusy Licor 43 — transform into something spectacular. It’s the kind of cocktail that can impress guests or elevate a quiet night in with minimal effort. The moment they’re shaken together over ice, they create a frothy, velvety texture that feels decadent in every sip, while the vanilla notes of the liquor shine through and add a warm and aromatic sweetness that rounds out the bold coffee flavor. 

While the exact origins of the carajillo remain a little mysterious, and many bars across the world claim to have invented it, it’s easy to understand why it’s so beloved. What makes this one so good is the way the two ingredients — espresso and sweet, citrusy vanilla liquor — come together. When shaken with ice they turn frothy and velvety, and deliver all the richness of its well-known cousin, the espresso martini, without all the added effort. It’s incredibly smooth, aromatic, and proof that simple can taste seriously luxurious. 

1. Freeze your glass. Place a rocks or old-fashioned glass in the refrigerator or freezer to keep your cocktail extra-cold while you enjoy.
2. Shake ingredients. Place espresso (or cold brew coffee) and Licor 43 in a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker halfway with ice, seal, and shake until the outside is very frosty.
3. Pour into glasses and enjoy. Fill the chilled glass with ice. Pour through a strainer into the glass. Garnish with roasted coffee beans if desired.

• For extra froth and a silkier finish, opt in for freshly brewed espresso instead of cold brew. Quick-chilling warm espresso creates a rich foam on top and gives the cocktail a creamy, cafe-style finish.
• Pop your glass in the freezer while you make the drink. It keeps the cocktail cold and extra-refreshing, and really makes all the difference.