So you like cocktails and you like coffee, what are you to do? The simple solution that you may have already thought of is combining the two for a delicious after dinner drink that still has the smoky, bold, and complex flavors of Java. The good news for you to know is that many of these delightful cocktails are something that you can drink within your own home because they are so easy to create. I can think of nothing better than sitting back after a long day and a good meal with a steaming coffee cocktail that will relax me right away.

The idea of combining coffee and alcohol is not entirely new, since I am sure we have all seen the stereotypical characters in movies that pour bourbon into their black coffee to start the day. That is not specifically what I am suggesting, but instead I am offering you a more creative way to approach combining coffee and alcohol as a sweet treat that is unforgettable. The fun fact about coffee is that pretty much any alcohol is complementary with it, so you just need to pick your poison. If you are a vodka lover, then you can make a simple Baileys Espresso Martini, by combining:

• 2 ounces Bailey's Irish Cream

• 1/4 ounce Vodka of your choice (I like Grey Goose!)

• 1 shot chilled espresso

All that you have to do is shake these ingredients well in a martini shaker with ice, and pour into a frosted martini glass. This is a completely classy and elegant drink that will be perfect for an evening of entertaining guests, and it is best to garnish it with several espresso beans floating in a martini glass. I have to warn you that you will not be able to stop at just one, so be sure to sip this martini slowly!

Another fun and rich coffee recipe is Keoke Coffee, which uses Kahlúa, Creme de Cacao, and Brandy for a rich after dinner beverage. All you have to do is pour a half a shot of each of the three liquors that I listed above, and fill the rest of your coffee mug up with fresh, hot coffee. It is best to garnish with whipped cream to taste so that your coffee has a sweet flavor, and this is truly a great evening coffee cocktail to enjoy, especially in cold weather.

For those braver souls who really want to take it to the next level with their coffee cocktails, you can actually create coffee infused vodka. All you have to do is crush (not grind) with a spoon a handful of coffee beans, and place them in a jar filled with vodka. Make sure that it is sealed tightly, shake it well, and store it in a cool place like your refrigerator for one week. At that point, all you have to do is funnel out the bean particles, and you have a coffee flavored vodka to enjoy. Get creative, because coffee cocktails are truly on the rise!