A.B.C. Shot
Layer ∙ 2 min ∙ 27.7% ABV ∙
A layered shot of amaretto, Irish cream, and cognac, the A.B.C. Shot takes its name from the initial of each liqueur. A warm cognac bite lands first from the top, cream softens the middle, and almond sweetness closes it underneath in one quick sip.
Ingredients
1
Servings
Instructions for 1 serving
- Pre-chill a glass
- Refrigerate all ingredients
- Carefully layer in the chilled glass in the following order: Amaretto liqueur 15 mlIrish cream liqueur 15 mlCognac 15 ml
Tips
- Pour the amaretto first, then layer the Irish cream over a barspoon held just above the liquid surface to prevent the layers from merging.
- Add the cognac last, pouring slowly down the spoon since it's the lightest layer and will float if poured gently over the Irish cream.
- Use equal 15 ml pours for each layer so the three bands sit at even thirds in the shot glass for a clean visual effect.
- Chill the shot glass beforehand since the liqueurs' differing densities separate more distinctly when poured cold rather than at room temperature.
FAQ
What is an A.B.C. shot?
It is a layered shot made from equal parts amaretto liqueur, Irish cream liqueur, and cognac, with the name spelling out the initial of each ingredient. It is served cold in a shot glass and drunk in one go, the almond, cream, and brandy notes hitting in sequence rather than blending into one flavor.
How do you make an A.B.C. shot?
Layer the three liqueurs in a shot glass in order of density, pouring each slowly over the back of a spoon or down the tilted side of the glass so they stack rather than mix. No shaking or stirring is involved; the technique is a careful, slow pour.
What is in the A.B.C. shot?
Amaretto liqueur, Irish cream liqueur, and cognac in equal measure, layered rather than combined. At roughly 27.7% ABV and about 126 calories per serving, it is stronger and richer than a typical layered dessert shot.
What does A.B.C. stand for?
It stands for Amaretto, Baileys (Irish cream), and Cognac, the three liqueurs layered in the glass. The name is a simple mnemonic for the build order as much as the ingredient list.
