Contrary to what Seamus O’Flanagan told you at a Kappa Gamma Sig party, you don’t have to be Irish to enjoy Irish whiskey cocktails. In fact, it doesn’t even need to be St. Patrick’s Day to throw back an Irish Coffee, mule, or whiskey smash.
But it probably shouldn’t be a weeknight if you’re going to throw back all three. They really hit differently after college.
No matter what time of year, Irish whiskey boasts a rich and complex flavor profile that works wonderfully in a number of drinks. From classic cocktails to modern twists, there are plenty of ways to incorporate this spirit into your drink repertoire. Other than as a shot that will burn your throat, that is.
Here are some of the best Irish whiskey drinks to try out, whether or not you have relatives from the homeland to honor.
15 Easy Irish Whiskey Cocktails
1. Irish Coffee
If you need a drink that screams “wake me up” and “get me sloshed,” then this Irish Coffee is the cocktail of your dreams. Hopefully not one where you forgot to put on pants.
2. Hot Toddy
Although it’s not a requirement that a Hot Toddy is made with Irish whiskey specifically, it is encouraged.
Especially if it’s March. And you’re at a pub. One that’s filled with a curious number of very tiny men with green top hats who are looking for gold. Did we accidentally mix this with Absinthe?
3. Smoked Hot Toddy
Did you go a little crazy on your wedding registry and end up with a drink smoker than you’ve used approximately two and a half times?
Break it out again for this smoked hot toddy variation! It has the same ingredients as the original recipe, but with an added smoky flavor that says, “yes, I do have too much time on my hands.”
4. Irish Mule
In a not-so-surprising twist on the classic Moscow mule, this cocktail replaces vodka with Irish whiskey. It’s just like traveling from Russia to Ireland without all the hassle of flying and passports. Just like it.
5. Blood Orange Whiskey Sour
Don’t be intimidated by the fancy name. You only need four ingredients to make this slightly sweet and just-sour-enough drink. And a camera to capture your beautiful creation. It’s a process, okay? Also, your lens cap is on.
6. Irish Whiskey Smash
Refreshing mint and tart lemon are the stars of this smash hit. Don’t tell Jameson, though. We like to try and keep his spirits high.
7. Jameson Green Tea Shot
Stay with us here. Even if a shot of whiskey doesn’t sound appealing, you’ll still probably love this green tea shot. It’s made with Irish whiskey (who knew!), peach schnapps (hey, college), sweet and sour mix (sure), and lemon-lime soda (Sprite, just call it Sprite).
Altogether, you get a sweet shot that only mildly resembles something like green tea.
8. Irish Hot Chocolate
If you’re one of those unicorns who don’t need coffee to cosplay as a human being, then you’ll probably enjoy this Irish hot chocolate topped with whipped cream (and festive sprinkles that you can get here).
Even if you do have a steady stream of coffee in your system – Irish or otherwise – this sweet, alcoholic drink is still a treat.
9. Irish Buck
Also known as a Jameson, ginger, and lime, this refreshing Irish whiskey cocktail is made with Irish whiskey, ginger ale or ginger beer, lime juice, and the tears of your enemies. Pretty sure you can get that last one on at your next high school reunion. If not, Amazon always comes through.
10. Shamrock Shake
Warning: this is not the kind of shake you’ll find at McDonald’s or Starbucks. Unless you do a little DIY in the parking lot with a mini bottle of Jameson. Good thing it’s within walking distance.
11. Drunken Leprechaun (Irish Screwdriver)
Made with orange juice, blue curaçao, and Irish whiskey, this stunning green cocktail will be the hit of any St. Patrick’s Day party. Probably not the day after, but hey, it’s important to live in the moment!
12. Irish Margarita
No need to wait for Tuesdays or May 5th to indulge in your love of margs. This Irish margarita is exactly what it sounds like: a classic margarita that swaps tequila for whiskey.
13. Rainbow Rim Green Irish Whiskey Cocktail Recipe
Is it festive? Fruity? A Willy Wonka fever dream? The best way to describe this rainbow whiskey-sour apple schnapps-melon liqueur drink is: yes.
14. Double Irish Trouble
Consider this the Frappuccino version of Irish coffee. If that doesn’t entice you, the fact that it only requires three ingredients – coffee ice cream, Baileys, and whiskey – should win you over. And if you’re still not sold, we will gladly take your glass. In addition to our own. And Susan’s.
15. Massey Cocktail
We like to call this one “Everything But the Bar Cart.” Although not as terrifying as a Long Island Iced Tea, it’s made with an impressive combination of Irish whiskey, dry gin, sweet vermouth, green chartreuse, and Campari. And an orange twist, because nutrition is important.
When not sitting behind a computer writing and editing, she’s an avid runner and yogi with an RYT 200 certification. Follow her on Instagram @hannah_rex and LinkedIn.
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