B&B Cocktail Recipe
B&B Nutrition Facts
Calories:150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:0g
Alcohol %:40
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: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The B&B cocktail is a classic after-dinner drink that has been enjoyed for decades. It's a simple blend of two well-loved liquors: Benedictine and Brandy. The name B&B stands for 'Benedictine & Brandy'. This cocktail was popularized in the 1930s and has been a staple in bars ever since. It's a favorite among those who enjoy a strong, warming drink to cap off a meal.
How B&B Tastes?
The B&B cocktail is a strong, warming drink with a complex flavor profile. The brandy provides a rich, fruity base, while the Benedictine adds a unique blend of herbal and spicy notes. It's slightly sweet, with a lingering warmth that makes it perfect for sipping slowly.
Interesting facts about B&B
- The B&B cocktail is often served in a brandy snifter to enhance its aroma and flavor.
- Despite its simplicity, the B&B has a complex flavor profile thanks to the blend of 27 different plants and spices in Benedictine.
- The B&B was reportedly a favorite drink of American author Ernest Hemingway.
Ingredients
- Brandy: 1.5 oz(45ml)
- Benedictine: 1.5 oz(45ml)
Brandy
Why 1.5 oz? Just enough to establish a robust base without overpowering the Benedictine. Flavor & Role: Brandy brings warmth and a fruit-forward dimension. If you skip it, you’ll miss the cocktail’s soul and balance. For a twist, using a Cognac adds smoothness, and an Armagnac brings more spiciness.
Alex Green
Benedictine
Why 1.5 oz? Equals the brandy to harmonize the herbal and sweet profiles. Flavor & Role: Benedictine offers a honeyed herbal complexity that makes the B&B unique. Without it, it would just be a lonely brandy. An alternative like Drambuie might bring a Scotch whisky undercurrent with a similar sweetness.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make B&B Drink
- Pour 1.5 oz of brandy into a brandy snifter.
- Add 1.5 oz of Benedictine.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Serve neat, without ice.
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality brandy for the best flavor.
- Serve in a warmed glass to enhance the flavors.
- Do not add ice, as it will dilute the flavors.
Perfect Pairings
Cheese Platter
A classic B&B cocktail goes nicely with a variety of cheeses, especially aged ones like Gouda or Cheddar. The herbal notes of the Benedictine and the warmth of the brandy cut through the richness of the cheese.
Chocolate Desserts
Sip on a B&B alongside chocolate truffles or a rich chocolate torte. The sweetness of the liqueur and brandy will complement the bitterness of dark chocolate.
Cigar
A more unconventional pairing, but a B&B, with its complex flavors, can be a great companion to a quality cigar.
Coffee
A post-dinner B&B cocktail can also be savored with a cup of coffee, enhancing the herbal and warming qualities of both.
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What you could change in B&B
If you don't have Benedictine, you can substitute with another herbal liqueur such as Chartreuse or Drambuie. However, this will significantly change the flavor of the cocktail.
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And of course - twists🍹
Smoked B&B
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz Smoked Brandy, 1.5 oz Benedictine
- Recipe: Replace standard brandy with smoked brandy. Add Benedictine and stir gently.
- Flavor Profile: This adds a smoky note, creating a more complex and autumnal feel to the B&B, ideal for those who appreciate a deeper flavor.
B&B on the Rocks
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz Brandy, 1.5 oz Benedictine, Ice
- Recipe: Serve the B&B over ice.
- Flavor Profile: The chill from the ice mellows the spirits slightly, making the drink more refreshing and tempering the sweetness.
Honey & Spice B&B
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz Honey Brandy, 1.5 oz Spiced Benedictine, a dash of bitters
- Recipe: Combine the honey brandy, spiced Benedictine, and a dash of bitters. Stir gently.
- Flavor Profile: The honey brandy and spiced Benedictine provide a sweeter and warmer spiced profile, perfect for a cold evening.
In case you forgot basics how to make B&B
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
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Frequently Asked Questions on B&B
Does the B&B cocktail have any variations?
Yes, a common variation is the B&B imperial which is made by adding a dash of dry vermouth.
What type of brandy is best for a B&B cocktail?
It is best to use cognac or armagnac as it blends beautifully with the Benedictine.
Can I use a different type of glass for a B&B cocktail?
While you can use any glass, a brandy snifter is preferred because it allows the aroma and flavor of the cocktail to come through.
Can I add a garnish to a B&B cocktail?
Yes, even though traditionally it is served without a garnish, you can dress it up with a twist of orange or a cherry on top.
Is there a specific time of day to enjoy a B&B cocktail?
Traditionally the B&B cocktail is an after-dinner drink, making it ideal for late evening or night.
Do I drink the B&B cocktail in one shot?
No, it's a sipping cocktail meant to be enjoyed slowly over time.
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