Irish Coffee

Instructions

1. Prepare the coffee
   Brew strong coffee using your preferred method. The coffee should be hot and freshly made for the best flavor. Fill two heat-resistant glass mugs about 3/4 full with the hot coffee.
2. Add sweetener
   Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to each mug while the coffee is still hot. Stir until completely dissolved to create a sweet base for your Irish Coffee.
3. Pour in the whiskey
   Add 2 tablespoons of Irish whiskey to each mug. Stir gently to combine with the sweetened coffee, allowing the flavors to blend together.
4. Prepare the cream
   In a medium bowl, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract (if using). Whip until the cream is slightly thickened but still pourable - it should have the consistency of lightly whipped cream, not stiff peaks.
5. Top with cream
   Using the back of a warm spoon held just above the coffee's surface, gently pour the cream over the spoon so it floats on top of the coffee rather than mixing in. The cream should form a distinct layer about 1 centimeter thick.
6. Garnish and serve
   Sprinkle a light dusting of chocolate shavings or cocoa powder over the cream. Add a cinnamon stick as a stirrer if desired. Serve immediately while hot, instructing guests to drink the coffee through the cream layer.