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Portugal · Drinks

Café com Cheirinho

5 min
40 kcal
1 serving

By eatmundo · August 4, 2026

Café com Cheirinho🇵🇹AI-generated image

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Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Café com Cheirinho. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

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Literally translating to 'Coffee with a little scent', this is a beloved Portuguese way to finish a hearty lunch. A strong espresso is spiked with a splash of brandy or aguardente, creating a warming, digestive pick-me-up.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Café com Cheirinho from another cuisine is Carajillo (Spain): the two share 57% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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1 serving

How to Make It

  • 1

    Brew a fresh, intense 30ml espresso shot into a pre-heated small coffee cup.

  • 2

    Immediately add 1 teaspoon of sugar and stir until it completely dissolves.

  • 3

    Pour 10ml of aguardente (brandy) directly into the hot coffee.

  • 4

    Take a small strip of lemon peel, twisting it slightly over the cup to release essential oils.

  • 5

    Place the peel into the cup and let it steep for 30 seconds to infuse the aroma.

  • 6

    Serve immediately while the coffee is piping hot.

  • 7

    Sip slowly to enjoy the marriage of the rich caffeine and the warming spirit.

  • 8

    Tip: For the best experience, use a high-quality, aged aguardente to ensure a smooth finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Café com Cheirinho?

Café com Cheirinho is a Portuguese coffee-based drink consisting of a shot of espresso spiked with aguardente and often garnished with a lemon peel. It is typically consumed as a digestif or during cold weather to provide warmth.

What if I don't have aguardente?

You can use any high-quality brandy, cognac, or even a marc de Bourgogne.

Is it better to add the alcohol before or after?

Adding it after the sugar allows the heat of the coffee to slightly mellow the sharpness of the alcohol.

Can I have it without sugar?

Yes, although the sugar is traditional as it helps balance the intensity of the spirit and the espresso.

Should I keep the lemon peel in?

It is optional, but leaving it in for the duration of the drink adds a wonderful, subtle citrus complexity.

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