The Coffee Cocktail Revolution (Move Over, Espresso Martini)
While the espresso martini has dominated the modern cocktail scene, we’re skipping the vodka craze to bring you a richer alternative: our signature Carajillo recipe. So while we know that everyone is riding that caffeinated wave, we want to pose a question for our drink lovers out there: what actually pairs better with coffee, vodka or rum?
At Big Bear Tiki Tours, we’re firmly team rum. Vodka is a fine neutral spirit, but it doesn’t bring any flavor to the party. Rum, however, has molasses-driven, tropical undertones that pair wonderfully with a rich brew. That’s why we’re skipping the current martini craze and championing a richer alternative that is currently taking the cocktail world by storm: the Carajillo. While we normally follow the tiki bar tradition of keeping our recipes closely guarded, we’re happy to make an exception share our Carajillo recipe with you today.
Key Takeaways
Here’s a quick rundown of what we’ll cover below:
The Rum Revolution: Why we’re ditching vodka and choosing rum as the ultimate pairing for a premium coffee cocktail.
A Sip of History: How 19th-century Spanish soldiers in Cuba inspired the original, courage-inducing Carajillo.
The On-Board Recipe: The secret, high-quality ingredients we use to get that perfect, velvety foam on the lake.
Floating Bar Vibes: Why the best bar in Big Bear is actually cruising the water.
The True Roots of the Carajillo
If you take a look at cocktail menus today, particularly in Mexico, you’ll frequently see this alluring drink crafted with tequila. However, its true history reveals a different story. The Carajillo actually has Cuban roots, making this Spanish-style rum the traditional, and, in our opinion, superior, choice.
A Quick Sip of History
The history of this drink goes all the way back to the 19th century, when Cuba was still a Spanish province. Before heading out into the field, Spanish soldiers would spike their morning coffee with local Cuban rum. They drank it to give themselves coraje, which is Spanish for courage. Over time, as the tradition stuck, the colloquial phrase coraje morphed linguistically into the name we know today: Carajillo. For us, this drink is the perfect symbol of the Big Bear Tiki Tours experience. We love having a good time as we embark on a lake adventure.
The Secret to the Perfect Pour
A defining feature of a Carajillo with rum is its texture. That eye-catching layer of foam carries the aroma of the cocktail. To get that perfect pour, you need to pay attention to the details.
The Cold Brew is Everything
You won’t get a firm, beautiful foam cushion using cheap coffee. A quality, concentrated cold brew will create that signature, long-lasting froth. On the Tiki boat, we love Stumpdown cold brew. It has just the right acidity and density to build an incredible head when shaken.
If you’re unable to get Stumpdown, don’t worry. Just be on the lookout for a premium, unsweetened cold brew from your local grocery store. And trust us, your tastebuds will thank you!
Ditch the Simple Syrup
If you’re looking to master the Carajillo recipe, put down the standard white simple syrup. Regular sugar syrup sweetens the drink, but it lacks character. Instead, we’re fans of Demerara sugar syrup. Demerara is minimally processed cane sugar with large, amber crystals that retain natural molasses flavors. Using a dark sugar syrup gives the cocktail its heavy, velvety mouthfeel and rich, satisfying body. It bridges the gap between the bitter coffee and the sweet vanilla notes of the liqueur, making every sip luxurious.
The Big Bear Tiki Tours Signature Carajillo Recipe
If you’re already over the espresso martini craze and want to stir up something more adventurous, here’s Captain Trevo’rs tried-and-true onboard recipe.
Ingredients List:
½ oz Demerara sugar syrup
¾ oz Licor 43
3 oz Unsweetened cold brew coffee (like Stumptown)
1 ½ oz Spanish-style white rum
Powered cinnamon for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep your glassware: This cocktail is incredibly versatile. You can serve it up in a chilled coupe glass for a classic lounge vibe, or you can do it exactly how we love to do it out on the boat: poured over fresh ice in our signature double rocks Mai Tai glasses.
Combine the Ingredients: Add the Demerara syrup, Licor 43, cold brew, and white rum into your shaker tin. Do not add the cinnamon just yet!
The Master Shake: Add lots of ice to the tin, seal it tight, and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. A hard, sustained shake will agitate the coffee proteins and build that thick, frothy cushion of foam.
The Pour: Strain the tin directly into your prepared glass (over fresh ice if you’re keeping it casual, or straight into the coupe if you’re feeling fancy).
The Finishing Touch: Gently dust a layer of powdered cinnamon across the top of the foam. The warmth of the spice will rest beautifully on the froth, hitting your nose just before your first step. Enjoy!
Redefining the Best Bars in Big Bear
If you want to enjoy fun, local craft cocktails for your next big lake getaway, think outside the box. Take advantage of the scenery by enjoying a world-class cocktail under the open mountain sky?
You don’t have to settle for the same old vacation routine. Ditch the hectic summer crowds for a cool lake breeze and a drink with history and soul.
Book Your Island Escape Today
Spaces on our floating paradise are limited and our summer calendar fills up quickly. Book a tour to secure your spot on a private or public cruise today, and join us for the best summer lake experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a Carajillo on my Big Bear Tiki Tour?
Yes! Our onboard bar is fully licensed and features a variety of handcrafted cocktails, including our signature rum-based Carajillo.
Can this Carajillo recipe be made non-alcoholic?
Absolutely. If you want the rich flavor and beautiful foam without the buzz, we can craft a delicious, non-alcoholic version at our onboard bar using premium cold brew and alcohol-free vanilla notes.
What makes a rum Carajillo better than an espresso martini?
While vodka in an espresso martini is neutral, the molasses-driven undertones of a Spanish-style white rum naturally complement the deep, roasted notes of coffee, creating a much richer and smoother flavor profile.
Do I need to book a private charter to enjoy the onboard bar?
Not at all! Our full drink menu is available on both our social public cruises and our private custom charters. Just be sure to book your tickets early, as seats on the lake sell out fast.