Crème de Cacao is a versatile ingredient that brings a rich, chocolatey flavor to a wide range of cocktails. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just getting started with creating drinks at home, there’s something incredibly satisfying about incorporating this liqueur into your recipes.
By exploring 15 different Crème de Cacao drinks, you can discover new ways to elevate your cocktail game and impress your guests. From creamy concoctions to sophisticated sips, these recipes offer a delightful experience for any occasion.
1) Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a smooth and creamy cocktail that is easy to make. It combines brandy, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. This classic mix offers a rich and satisfying taste.
Start by pouring brandy, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream into a cocktail shaker. Add ice to the shaker and shake it well for about 30 seconds. This helps to chill the mixture and blend the flavors.
Next, strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. For an extra touch, garnish the top with freshly grated nutmeg. This adds a slight spice that complements the creamy texture.
The Brandy Alexander is perfect for evenings when you want a comforting and indulgent drink. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a favorite among many cocktail enthusiasts.
2) Grasshopper
The Grasshopper is a sweet, minty cocktail that dates back to 1918. It was created by Philip Guichet at Tujague’s bar in New Orleans for a cocktail competition. This classic drink is known for its bright green color and dessert-like taste.
To make a Grasshopper, you’ll need three main ingredients: green crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Combine these in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well to chill the mixture.
Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass. Some variations suggest grating nutmeg on top for extra flavor, though this is optional. You can also rim the glass with chocolate shavings for a fancy touch.
If you prefer a blended version, add ice to a blender with the same ingredients and blend until smooth. Enjoy your Grasshopper as an after-dinner treat or alongside dessert. This minty, chocolatey drink is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
3) Chocolate Martini
A Chocolate Martini is a delightful blend of rich, creamy flavors, perfect for any chocolate lover.
To make this drink, start by preparing your glass. Wet the rim of a martini glass and dip it into grated chocolate. This adds an extra touch of decadence.
Next, you’ll need a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Add vodka, chocolate liqueur, crème de cacao, and half-and-half.
Shake the mixture until it is well-chilled. Strain the drink into your prepared glass, and for an extra treat, garnish with shaved chocolate or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Enjoy the smooth, sweet taste of a Chocolate Martini as a delightful dessert cocktail.
4) Creamy Dream
The Creamy Dream is a smooth and delightful cocktail.
To make this drink, you’ll need crème de cacao, Irish cream, and vodka. This mix results in a rich and luscious flavor.
First, take a martini glass and wet the rim. Dip the rim into a plate with a mix of cocoa powder and brown sugar.
Next, pour a swirl of chocolate syrup inside the glass. This adds a sweet, decorative touch.
In a shaker, combine equal parts crème de cacao, Irish cream, and vodka with ice. Shake well until chilled.
Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
Enjoy the Creamy Dream as a perfect dessert drink.
5) Alexander’s Sister
Alexander’s Sister is a smooth, creamy cocktail that stands out for its unique flavor profile.
It’s a variation of the classic Alexander Cocktail. Unlike the original, which uses crème de cacao and gin, Alexander’s Sister adds crème de menthe for a minty twist.
To make the Alexander’s Sister, you will need dry gin, crème de menthe, and sweet cream.
Start by shaking these ingredients with ice until well mixed. Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass.
The result is a creamy and refreshing drink with a hint of mint, making it a delightful choice for those who love dessert-like cocktails.
Alexander’s Sister showcases how a subtle change in ingredients can create a whole new experience in cocktail crafting.
6) Velvet Hammer
The Velvet Hammer is a delightful cocktail combining smooth flavors and a touch of citrus. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a creamy yet refreshing drink.
To make a Velvet Hammer, you need a few key ingredients: cognac, Tia Maria, crème de cacao, Cointreau, and cream. The blend of these ingredients creates a rich, mocha-like taste with a zesty orange burst.
Start by filling a shaker with ice. Add one ounce each of cognac, Tia Maria, crème de cacao, and Cointreau. Pour in one ounce of cream. Shake vigorously for about 20-30 seconds until it’s well chilled.
Strain the mixture into a chilled glass. You can garnish your Velvet Hammer with a slice of orange or some chocolate shavings for an added touch.
If you prefer a milkshake-like texture, substitute the cream with ice cream. Blend all the ingredients until smooth. This variation gives the drink a thicker consistency and a more dessert-like feel.
Enjoy your Velvet Hammer as an evening treat or serve it at gatherings to impress your guests. Its combination of flavors makes it a beloved choice among cocktail enthusiasts.
7) Twentieth Century
The Twentieth Century is a classy cocktail that dates back to 1937. Named after the famous 20th Century Limited train, it combines gin, Lillet Blanc, crème de cacao, and lemon juice.
To make it, you start by gathering your ingredients: dry gin, Lillet Blanc, white crème de cacao, and fresh lemon juice.
Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well for about 15 seconds until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
Next, strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. The final touch is a lemon twist for garnish.
This drink is a delightful blend of sharp gin with the sweetness of crème de cacao and the subtle bitterness of Lillet Blanc. The lemon juice adds a refreshing citrus note, making it a balanced cocktail perfect for any occasion.
8) Tootsie Roll
The Tootsie Roll cocktail is a fun drink that mimics the flavor of the classic candy. To make this drink, you need 0.5 ounces of creme de cacao, 0.5 ounces of vanilla vodka, and 0.5 ounces of orange juice. Combine these ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake for about 10 seconds until chilled.
For a different twist, you can try using coffee liqueur instead of creme de cacao. This brings out a richer taste. Mix 0.5 ounces of coffee liqueur with 0.5 ounces of vodka and 0.5 ounces of orange juice. Shake with ice and strain into a shot glass.
If you prefer a simpler version, you can skip the vodka. Mix 1 ounce of coffee liqueur with 1 ounce of orange juice. This variation still gives you the Tootsie Roll’s signature taste.
You can also experiment by adding cherry syrup or Luxardo cherry liqueur for a cherry Tootsie Pop flavor. Just add 1 ounce of cherry syrup or juice to your existing mix. This adds a sweet and fruity twist to the original drink.
Adjust the ingredients to match your personal taste and enjoy your Tootsie Roll cocktail.
9) Cacao Wow
Cacao Wow is a delightful cocktail that brings a rich, chocolatey flavor to your glass. It’s perfect for chocolate lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. You’ll find it both creamy and satisfying.
For this drink, you’ll need creme de cacao, Irish cream, and vodka. These ingredients create a smooth and sophisticated mix that tastes incredible.
Start by wetting the rim of a martini glass and dipping it in a mixture of cocoa powder and brown sugar. This adds a sweet touch to your first sip.
Next, pour creme de cacao, Irish cream, and vodka into a shaker with ice. Shake it well until it’s nicely chilled. Strain it into the prepared martini glass.
If you want to make it even more special, drizzle a little chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring in the cocktail.
10) Nightcap Delight
The Nightcap Delight is a cozy way to end your evening. It combines brandy, amaretto, dark creme de cacao, and heavy cream to create a smooth and rich treat.
You start by adding 1 ounce of brandy, 1 ounce of amaretto, 1 ounce of dark creme de cacao, and 1 ounce of heavy cream to a shaker filled with ice.
Shake well until the mixture is chilled and combined.
Strain the mix into a small tumbler or brandy snifter. To finish, garnish with a pinch of nutmeg on top.
The nutmeg adds a hint of spice that balances the sweetness.
The Nightcap Delight is not only delicious but also elegant, making it perfect for winding down after a long day.
11) Mocha Delight
The Mocha Delight is a must-try for any chocolate and coffee lover. Combining the rich flavors of creme de cacao and cold brew coffee, this drink offers a perfect duo of sweetness and bitterness.
You start with one ounce of creme de cacao. Then, add two ounces of cold brew coffee for a smooth yet strong base.
Pour in one ounce of vodka to give the cocktail a bit of a kick. For a creamy texture, add one ounce of half-and-half or heavy cream.
Shake all the ingredients with ice until well mixed. Strain into a chilled glass to serve.
You can garnish your Mocha Delight with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few coffee beans for an extra touch. Enjoy this delightful mix of chocolate and coffee flavors.
12) Cacao Old Fashioned
The Cacao Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail. It blends the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of crème de cacao.
Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need 2 ounces of bourbon, 1/2 ounce of crème de cacao, and 3 dashes of peach bitters.
Add all ingredients to a lowball glass with a large ice cube. Stir gently until chilled. This helps to mix and meld the flavors.
Garnish your drink with a strip of orange peel. This adds a touch of citrusy aroma, enhancing the overall profile.
Serve your Cacao Old Fashioned immediately and enjoy the smooth, balanced flavor.
13) Golden Cadillac
The Golden Cadillac cocktail dates back to 1952. It was created at Poor Red’s, a bar in El Dorado, California. A bartender invented the drink for a couple who wanted something new.
This cocktail combines Galliano, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Galliano is an Italian liqueur with a sweet herbal flavor that makes this drink unique.
To make the Golden Cadillac, chill a cocktail glass with ice. In a shaker, mix Galliano, crème de cacao, and cream. Add ice and shake until the mix is frothy. Pour it into the chilled glass.
The Golden Cadillac offers a blend of herbal and sweet chocolate flavors. It is creamy and enjoyable as an after-dinner drink.
14) Cocoa Fizz
Cocoa Fizz is a refreshing and fizzy drink that’s perfect for summer days. It combines the rich flavor of creme de cacao with club soda.
You start with a base of creme de cacao. This chocolate-flavored liqueur provides a sweet and indulgent taste.
Next, you add club soda for a light and sparkling finish. The soda balances the sweetness and adds a delightful effervescence.
Pour the creme de cacao into a glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and stir gently to mix.
To enhance the flavor, you can garnish with a slice of orange or a sprig of mint. This adds a touch of freshness to the drink.
Enjoy your Cocoa Fizz as a simple, yet delicious, cocktail that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
15) Cacao Sazerac
The Cacao Sazerac is a delightful twist on the classic Sazerac cocktail. You use rye whiskey as the base, which gives it a strong and spicy flavor.
Add creme de cacao to bring in a rich chocolate note. This balances out the spiciness of the whiskey.
To sweeten the drink, use simple syrup. It helps blend the flavors together smoothly.
Bitters add a slight bitterness, enhancing the depth of the drink.
To make the Cacao Sazerac, add rye whiskey, creme de cacao, simple syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass.
Fill it with ice and stir for about 20-30 seconds.
Strain the mixture into a chilled, rinsed rocks glass.
Garnish with a twist of orange zest for a fresh citrus aroma.
This drink is perfect for those who enjoy complex flavors and a bit of sweetness in their cocktails.
History of Creme de Cacao
Creme de cacao has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. This liqueur not only has origins deeply rooted in France but has also significantly influenced cocktail culture over the centuries.
Origins and Development
Creme de cacao originated in France during the late 16th century. French monks were the first to create it by using cacao beans, which they believed had medicinal properties. They combined these beans with alcohol to craft a drink that they thought could cure various ailments.
By the 17th century, the drink had become popular beyond monastic use. The creamy texture and chocolate flavor made it appealing. Over time, the process was refined. Recipes included more ingredients like vanilla to enhance the flavor. The method involved soaking cacao beans in alcohol for an extended period, extracting rich cocoa flavors.
Impact on Cocktail Culture
Creme de cacao has been a staple in cocktail culture for a long time. Its unique taste makes it an essential ingredient in many classic cocktails. From the Brandy Alexander to the Grasshopper, its versatility is notable.
In the early 20th century, creme de cacao gained prominence in the United States. It became a key component in the rise of chocolaty and creamy drinks that were popular in speakeasies. Its ability to blend well with other spirits like rum and brandy contributed to its lasting appeal.
Today, creme de cacao continues to inspire bartenders and mixologists. It’s found in both traditional and modern cocktails, making it a timeless element in the world of beverages.
Health Benefits and Considerations
When enjoying Creme De Cacao drinks, it’s important to understand both their nutritional makeup and their potential health benefits. This section will cover these aspects.
Nutritional Information
Creme de Cacao is a sweet, chocolate-flavored liqueur. It typically contains 60-70 calories per ounce, with sugar making up a significant part of its content. An ounce usually includes 6-8 grams of sugar. The alcohol content varies, but it’s commonly around 25% ABV (alcohol by volume). This makes Creme de Cacao relatively low in alcohol compared to spirits like vodka or whiskey.
It has minimal amounts of fat and protein. While you shouldn’t expect it to contribute to your daily nutritional needs, being aware of its sugar and calorie content is key, especially if you are monitoring your intake.
Potential Health Benefits
Consuming alcohol in moderation can have some benefits. Small amounts of alcohol have been linked to improved heart health and better blood circulation. Creme de Cacao, specifically, may offer minor benefits due to its cocoa content. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants known as flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart function.
Moderate consumption can also contribute to relaxation and stress relief. Enjoying a Creme de Cacao drink as a treat can be a pleasant way to unwind. Nevertheless, the high sugar content can be a concern if consumed too often, as it can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Therefore, it’s best enjoyed occasionally and in small amounts.
Pairing Creme de Cacao with Other Ingredients
Discovering the best ingredient pairings for Creme de Cacao enhances your cocktails, bringing out unique flavors. Whether you prefer classic or contemporary mixtures, knowing these combinations will elevate your drinking experience.
Classic Combinations
Creme de Cacao pairs well with cream and milk, creating a rich and silky texture. Drinks like the Brandy Alexander, which combines brandy, Creme de Cacao, and cream, are timeless examples.
Coffee liqueur is another classic choice. When mixed with Creme de Cacao, it produces a deep, chocolatey flavor that is perfect in cocktails like the Mudslide.
Rum and gin also complement Creme de Cacao. Rum’s sweetness and gin’s botanical notes work wonderfully with the chocolate flavor, seen in drinks like the Bushwacker and Monaco.
Innovative Mixes
For a modern twist, combine Creme de Cacao with peppermint schnapps or tequila. The fresh taste of peppermint schnapps blends perfectly with chocolate, as in the Chocolate Peppermint Stick cocktail.
Tequila adds a unique depth and earthiness. Paired with fruity notes, such as in the Keoke Coffee, it offers a surprising yet delightful flavor profile.
Orange bitters bring a zesty kick, enhancing the sweetness of Creme de Cacao. This can be seen in cocktails like the Monaco, making it a versatile choice for inventive mixers.
