Bourbon Flip
The Bourbon Flip has a rich, creamy, and smooth taste with a hint of sweetness from the simple syrup. The bourbon adds a warm, oaky, and slightly spicy flavor, while the egg gives the drink a frothy and velvety texture.
After Midnight Cocktail Recipe
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After Midnight Nutrition Facts
Calories:175
Fat:2g
Protein:1g
Carbohydrates:11g
Alcohol:14%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 16, 2024
Contents
History
The 'After Midnight' cocktail is a sophisticated and indulgent drink that's perfect for winding down after a long day or for sipping slowly into the early hours of a lively night. Its creation is inspired by the classic nightcap, designed to be both comforting and luxurious. The blend of fresh cream with the rich, deep flavors of coffee liqueur and the citrus notes of Grand Marnier appeals to those who appreciate a balanced yet complex drink.
How After Midnight Tastes?
The 'After Midnight' cocktail offers a velvety texture with a rich and creamy taste that is balanced by the robustness of the coffee liqueur and the subtle warmth of Grand Marnier. It's a harmonious blend that's sweet, but not overly so, with a slight bitterness from the coffee that makes it sophisticated and mature.
Interesting facts about After Midnight
- The 'After Midnight' cocktail is often enjoyed as a dessert drink, thanks to its creamy and sweet profile.
- Grand Marnier, a key ingredient, is a French orange-flavored liqueur made from a blend of Cognac brandy, distilled essence of bitter orange, and sugar.
- Coffee liqueur, another essential component, is typically made from coffee beans, vanilla, and sugar, often with a rum or vodka base.
Ingredients
- Fresh cream: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Coffee liqueur: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Grand marnier: 1 oz(30ml)
Fresh Cream
Cream adds a smooth, velvety texture and a slight sweetness that softens the edges of the stronger flavors in the cocktail. 0.5 oz is just the right amount to create a layer without overpowering the drink. Too little, and you'll miss the mark on texture; too much, and it's a dairy overdose. No cream? Try half-and-half for less richness or go all out with coconut cream for a tropical twist.
Emma Rose
Coffee Liqueur
This liqueur brings a deep, roasted flavor that resonates with the night owls among us. 0.5 oz ensures your cocktail has a caffeine kick without turning it into last night's coffee. Skipping it would leave you with a lackluster libation, but sub in a shot of espresso and a touch of simple syrup if you're in a pinch!
Alex Green
Grand Marnier
The smooth, citrus notes of 1 oz Grand Marnier give the cocktail a sophisticated twist and a bit of brightness. All in moderation—pour too much, and it starts to taste like orange juice’s night on the town; too little, and the flavor fades into the shadows. No Grand Marnier? Orange-flavored Cointreau can step in, but expect a lighter dance on your palate.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make After Midnight Drink
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
- Pour the coffee liqueur and Grand Marnier over the ice.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Carefully float the fresh cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
Pro Tips
- To achieve the perfect cream float, pour the cream over the back of a spoon very slowly. The spoon should be just above the surface of the drink.
- Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before serving to keep your 'After Midnight' cocktail cold longer.
Perfect Pairings
Desserts
A sweet, creamy cocktail like the After Midnight pairs exceptionally well with desserts that have similar flavor profiles. Think chocolate lava cake, tiramisu, or even a crème brûlée. The richness of the desserts complements the creamy and coffee notes of the cocktail.
Coffee
Pairing with coffee isn't just for the morning. Consider enjoying this cocktail alongside a well-brewed cup of espresso or a latte for a caffeinated kick that echoes the coffee liqueur.
Salty Snacks
The sweetness of the After Midnight can be nicely balanced with some salty snacks. Options like salted nuts, charcuterie boards, or artisan cheeses can make for a delightful contrast.
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What you could change in After Midnight
- If Grand Marnier is not available, a good quality triple sec or Cointreau can be used as a substitute.
- For a non-alcoholic version, use a coffee-flavored syrup in place of the coffee liqueur and an orange juice concentrate for the Grand Marnier.
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And of course - twists🍹
Espresso Martini After Midnight
Swap the coffee liqueur for a fresh shot of espresso and replace the Grand Marnier with vodka. Shake up a shot of espresso with vodka and a splash of simple syrup to sweeten. Carefully float the cream as before. It's After Midnight with a kick stronger than your alarm clock!
Citrus Glow After Midnight
Use Cointreau instead of Grand Marnier and add a dash of orange bitters. Pucker up with this zestier version that shines a new light on citrus. The bitters balance the sweetness, making for a cocktail that'll light the way past midnight!
Coconut Cream After Midnight
Replace fresh cream with coconut cream for a tropical vibe. Shake the coconut cream with the coffee liqueur and Grand Marnier. The drink becomes an escape to a moonlit beach, where the waves whisper secrets and the coconut trees sway along.
In case you forgot basics how to make After Midnight
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
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Frequently Asked Questions on After Midnight
Can the 'After Midnight' cocktail be served as a dessert?
Yes, the 'After Midnight' cocktail has a creamy, sweet profile with hints of coffee, making it a great option for a dessert cocktail.
What type of glass is best suited for an 'After Midnight' cocktail?
An 'After Midnight' cocktail is best served in a chilled cocktail glass, which helps maintain its temperature and enhances its sophisticated presentation.
Is it essential to use fresh cream for the recipe?
While fresh cream is recommended for its taste and consistency, it is possible to use alternative cream types to cater to different dietary needs.
How can I make an 'After Midnight' cocktail vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute fresh cream with a plant-based cream alternative such as coconut cream or any non-dairy creamer that complements coffee flavors.
What is the best time to serve the 'After Midnight' cocktail?
The 'After Midnight' cocktail is an excellent choice for after-dinner drinks or as a nightcap due to its relaxing and indulgent qualities.
Can I make a batch of 'After Midnight' cocktails in advance?
You can pre-mix the coffee liqueur and Grand Marnier in a batch, but it's best to shake with ice and add fresh cream just before serving to ensure the best texture and temperature.
How does the alcohol content in an 'After Midnight' compare to other cocktails?
The 'After Midnight' cocktail has a moderate alcohol content, similar to other creamy or dessert cocktails. It's designed to be enjoyed slowly for its complex flavors.
What can I do if the cream in my 'After Midnight' cocktail sinks?
Ensure that the cream is cold, and pour it slowly over the back of a spoon. If it still sinks, practice the technique with different pouring speeds or adjust the density of the cream.
Is the 'After Midnight' cocktail strong on the coffee flavor?
The coffee flavor in an 'After Midnight' cocktail is distinct but well-balanced with the sweetness of the fresh cream and the citrusy notes of Grand Marnier.
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