Indulge in the delightful world of cocktails with a charming concoction known as the Pink Squirrel. Originating in Milwaukee during the 1940s, this classic drink shares its creamy base with renowned cocktails like the Brandy Alexander and the Grasshopper. With just three ingredients, including white crème de cacao and heavy cream, the Pink Squirrel stands out due to the addition of vibrant red crème de noyaux, lending it a captivating pink hue and a distinct almond-chocolate flavor. This retro yet elegant cocktail is not only visually appealing but also promises the taste of a dessert without the heaviness, and all it takes is three ingredients and five minutes to whip up this charming creation.
Crafting the Pink Squirrel:
To prepare this cocktail, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
- Crème de Noyaux: Infusing the drink with its rosy color and almond essence, this liqueur, often produced by Tempus Fugit Spirits, gives the Pink Squirrel its unique charm.
- White Crème de Cacao Liqueur: Infused with subtle notes of chocolate and vanilla, this flavored cacao liqueur adds sophistication to the mix.
- Heavy Cream: Providing the cocktail with its characteristic creaminess.
Why You’ll Love It:
- This retro-inspired cocktail not only captivates with its appearance but also delivers a dessert-like taste without the accompanying heaviness.
- Despite its sophisticated touch, crafting this cocktail requires only three ingredients and a mere five minutes of your time.
Useful Variations:
- For an extra kick, consider adding half an ounce of brandy or vodka to enhance the richness.
- Transform it into an alcoholic milkshake by blending the ingredients (excluding heavy cream) with two scoops of vanilla ice cream until smooth.
- If crème de noyaux is elusive, substitute with 3/4 ounce amaretto and 1/2 ounce cranberry juice, pomegranate juice, or a teaspoon of Luxardo maraschino cherry syrup for an equally delicious alternative.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 ounce crème de noyaux (such as Tempus Fugit)
- 3/4 ounce white crème de cacao liqueur
- 1 ounce cold heavy cream
- Ice
- Freshly grated nutmeg
Instructions:
- Chill a 5-ounce coupe or Nick and Nora glass in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 5 minutes.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine 3/4 ounce crème de noyaux, 3/4 ounce white crème de cacao liqueur, and 1 ounce cold heavy cream. Add enough ice to fill the shaker halfway.
- Seal the shaker and shake until the exterior is frosty, about 20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into the chilled glass.
- Finely grate nutmeg over the surface.
Conclusion:
The Pink Squirrel cocktail is a journey into the past, offering a visual and flavorful experience that balances sophistication with simplicity. With its unique blend of almond, chocolate, and creaminess, this charming concoction is sure to spark conversations and leave a lasting impression at any gathering.
image source : the kitchn
