Fat-washing and texture
How fat-washing works in coffee cocktails, why bartenders use it, and how it transforms both flavor and texture.
- Coffee Basics Nerds
- 2 min read
Article 6 of 12 in Coffee Cocktails & Mixology/
What is Fat-Washing?
- Technique where a spirit is infused with a fat (e.g., butter, coconut oil, bacon fat).
- Fat carries aromatic compounds that transfer into the alcohol.
- After infusion, the mixture is chilled, and solid fat is removed, leaving a silky, flavored spirit.
Why Use Fat-Washing in Coffee Cocktails?
- Texture: Adds roundness, viscosity, and a creamy mouthfeel without dairy.
- Flavor: Infuses rich, savory, or nutty notes that pair well with coffee.
- Novelty: Creates memorable, signature cocktails with depth.
Common Fats for Coffee Pairings
- Brown Butter: Adds toffee, nutty tones that match roasted coffee flavors.
- Coconut Oil: Works with tropical or iced coffee cocktails.
- Cocoa Butter: Enhances chocolate-like flavors in espresso drinks.
- Nut Oils (hazelnut, almond): Subtle, dessert-like undertones.
- Bacon Fat: Creates smoky, savory combinations with whiskey or rum.
Basic Fat-Washing Process
- Warm fat until liquid.
- Combine with spirit (e.g., 30 g fat per 750 ml spirit).
- Let infuse at room temperature for several hours.
- Freeze or chill to solidify fat.
- Strain off fat solids; store spirit in clean bottle.
Cocktail Applications
- Butter-Washed Bourbon + Espresso: Rich dessert-style cocktail.
- Coconut Rum Cold Brew Highball: Tropical, smooth, lightly creamy.
- Hazelnut Fat-Washed Vodka + Espresso Martini: Adds dessert-like depth.
Safety & Practical Notes
- Use food-safe, fresh fats.
- Store fat-washed spirits in cool, dark places and use within a few weeks.
- Label clearly—spirits may look unchanged but taste significantly different.
Summary
Fat-washing adds silky texture and deep flavors to coffee cocktails, enhancing the harmony between spirit and brew. From brown butter bourbon to coconut oil rum, this technique elevates drinks with richness and creativity.