Pavlova Shot
Layer ∙ 2 min ∙ 30% ABV ∙
The Pavlova Shot is a two-layer vodka shot made by carefully layering raspberry liqueur under vodka in a chilled shot glass. A clean, cold vodka bite hits first from the top, then sweet raspberry rolls in underneath, finishing sharp rather than lingering.
Ingredients
1
Servings
Instructions for 1 serving
- Pre-chill a glass
- Refrigerate all ingredients
- Carefully layer in the chilled glass in the following order: Raspberry liqueur 25 mlVodka 25 ml
Tips
- Chill the glass and both bottles beforehand — layering depends on temperature and density, not just pouring slowly.
- Pour the raspberry liqueur first, then float the vodka over the back of a spoon or down the side of the glass to keep the layers distinct.
- Pour slowly and steadily; a fast pour punches through the raspberry layer and muddies the split before it sets.
History
The Pavlova Shot has no documented creator or bar of origin; it survives mainly as a layered raspberry-liqueur-and-vodka shooter recipe in cocktail guides, without an attributed inventor or date.
Its name borrows from the pavlova, the meringue dessert topped with cream and fruit that is named for the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, generally linked to her 1920s tour of Australia and New Zealand. The dessert's own birthplace is a long-running dispute between the two countries, each crediting a local chef with its creation, and the shot's naming reflects that dessert rather than any documented event of its own.
FAQ
What is in a Pavlova Shot?
A Pavlova Shot is raspberry liqueur and vodka in equal measure, carefully layered rather than mixed so the two stay visually distinct in the glass. Both ingredients are chilled beforehand, and the raspberry liqueur goes in first as the base layer, with vodka floated on top.
How do you make a Pavlova Shot?
Pre-chill the shot glass and refrigerate the raspberry liqueur and vodka, then pour the raspberry liqueur into the glass first. Float the vodka slowly on top so it sits as a separate layer rather than blending in, giving a clean two-tone shot.
What does a Pavlova Shot taste like?
It tastes sweet and fruity up front from the raspberry liqueur, then turns clean and sharp as the vodka layer hits. At about 30% ABV, it drinks strong and fast, with little dilution since it is served as a straight layered shot.
