Rise and Shine with the Coffee Wake Up Cocktail: A Love Letter to Caffeine Enthusiasts Everywhere!

Start your day on a spirited note with our invigorating Coffee Wake Up Cocktail recipe.

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades. I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavour combinations, and learned a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide. In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets.

I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests. So, grab your shaker, dust off your favourite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!

Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Why the Coffee Wake Up Cocktail Is Trending

Coffee cocktails aren’t just a passing fad—they’re now a staple on brunch menus across Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond. Australia’s café culture has always been strong, and now bartenders are blending that passion for espresso with the artistry of mixology.

The Coffee Wake Up Cocktail is part of this movement. It takes everything we love about a strong, freshly brewed espresso and dresses it up with a boozy twist. Perfect for Sunday brunches, long weekends, or when you want to impress friends with something more memorable than a flat white.

⚠️ RSA note: Cocktails like this are a treat for brunch or special occasions, not a replacement for your daily morning cuppa. Always enjoy responsibly and in line with RSA guidelines.

A Quick Nod to Coffee Cocktail History

When most people think of coffee cocktails, the Espresso Martini springs to mind. Created in the 1980s, it became the ultimate after-dinner drink. At Shake Sip Serve, we’ve even given it a twist with our Salted Caramel Espresso Martini – silky, decadent, and a crowd favourite.

The Coffee Wake Up Cocktail is cut from the same cloth but adds its own personality with a walnut liqueur twist. Where the Espresso Martini is chic and late-night, this cocktail is bright, nutty, and brunch-ready.

The Core Ingredients Explained

Espresso (60ml)

The heart of the drink. A fresh double shot of espresso (about 60ml) provides boldness and structure.

Tips:

Use freshly roasted beans.
Grind just before brewing for best results.
A fine grind (like table salt) ensures proper extraction.

Coffee Liqueur (30ml)

Adds sweetness, depth, and a secondary coffee punch.

Kahlúa – rich, caramel-vanilla notes, classic choice.
Tia Maria – smoother, slightly less sweet, with chocolate undertones.

Walnut Liqueur (15ml)

The secret weapon. Walnut liqueurs give warmth and nuttiness.

Frangelico – nutty with hazelnut & vanilla hints.
Nocello – walnut & green walnut, slightly herbal, less sweet.

Other options: amaretto (almond), hazelnut liqueurs.

Coffee Wake Up Cocktail Recipe (AU Measurements)

Ingredients:

60ml freshly brewed espresso
30ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa, Tia Maria, or similar)
15ml walnut liqueur (Frangelico, Nocello, etc.)
Ice
Coffee beans, for garnish
Optional: whipped cream

Equipment:

Cocktail shaker
Strainer
Martini glass or chilled coffee mug

Method:

Brew a fresh double espresso (60ml).
Fill shaker with ice, add espresso, coffee liqueur, walnut liqueur.
Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
Strain into a chilled martini glass or mug.
Garnish with 3 coffee beans.
Optional: add whipped cream for indulgence.

Variations & Customisations

Spiced Wake-Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Creamy Wake-Up: Swap half the coffee liqueur for Baileys.
Minty Wake-Up: Muddle mint before shaking.
Boozy Wake-Up: Add 15ml whiskey or bourbon for a stronger kick (consume responsibly).

Pro Bartender Tips

Chill your glassware: Pop in the freezer for 5 mins.
Balance the sweetness: If your liqueur is on the sweeter side, adjust by reducing the coffee liqueur slightly.
Batching for brunch: Multiply recipe in a jug, shake individual serves for froth before pouring.

Pairing Ideas

This cocktail pairs beautifully with:

Brunch food: Avocado toast, smoked salmon bagels, pancakes.
Dessert: Tiramisu, flourless chocolate cake, biscotti.

Why Australia Loves Coffee Cocktails

Australian café culture + cocktail creativity = brunch perfection. Whether you’re in Melbourne sipping single-origin coffee or at a rooftop bar in Sydney, the Coffee Wake Up Cocktail feels like a natural extension of our lifestyle.

For a playful twist on themed drinks, check out our Alien Brain Hemorrhage Shot—a crowd-pleaser at parties with an eerie aesthetic.

The Final Sip

The Coffee Wake Up Cocktail isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual. It transforms your morning (or brunch) into a memorable experience. Robust espresso, smooth liqueurs, and a nutty surprise in every sip.

So next time you’re craving something bold, skip the plain cup of joe and shake up this nutty, caffeinated delight.

The bartending community…

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days?
What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?

Let’s connect and continue the conversation!

Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: Liquor & Gaming NSW