Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a rich, creamy, and sweet cocktail with a hint of nuttiness from the crème de cacao. It has a velvety texture and a warming, comforting taste that is perfect for sipping on a cold night.
Heart Warmer Cocktail Recipe
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Heart Warmer Nutrition Facts
Calories:350
Fat:10g
Protein:2g
Carbohydrates:25g
Alcohol:20%
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: January 7, 2024
Contents
History
The Heart Warmer cocktail is a delightful concoction that was first created in the 1920s during the Prohibition era. It was a popular choice among the elite and was often served at secret speakeasies. The name 'Heart Warmer' comes from its ability to warm the heart and soul during cold winter nights.
- The cocktail was a favorite among the upper class
- It was often served at secret speakeasies during Prohibition
- The name 'Heart Warmer' comes from its warming effect on the heart and soul
How Heart Warmer Tastes?
The Heart Warmer cocktail has a rich, velvety taste with hints of sweetness and warmth. It is a well-balanced blend of strong, smooth, and slightly spicy flavors.
Interesting facts about Heart Warmer
- The Heart Warmer cocktail was created during the Prohibition era
- It was a popular choice among the elite and was often served at secret speakeasies
- The name 'Heart Warmer' comes from its ability to warm the heart and soul during cold winter nights
Ingredients
- Rum: 2 oz(60ml)
- Brandy: 1 oz(30ml)
- Amaretto: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Hot chocolate: 4 oz(120ml)
- Whipped cream: 1dollop
- Chocolate shavings: 1tsp
Rum
Made from sugarcane byproducts, rum adds a sweet and slightly spicy kick that's ideal for a winter cocktail. With 2oz, it forms the backbone of our Heart Warmer. Too little, and you miss the warmth; too much, and the drink becomes boozy overkill.
Mary Mitkina
Brandy
Derived from distilled wine, brandy contributes a rich and fruity complexity. 1oz is just enough to complement, not overpower, the rum. Omit it, and you lose depth; overdo it, and you risk a fruit overload.
Emma Rose
Amaretto
This sweet Italian liqueur made from almonds adds a nutty elegance. At 0.5oz, it's a subtle hint that whispers rather than shouts. Without it, the cocktail would miss an intriguing layer; too much would be like an almond hijacking.
Alex Green
Hot Chocolate
4oz of hot chocolate brings a creamy chocolatey foundation, making our cocktail comforting and indulgent. Less would leave the drink less cozy, more might turn it into a boozy cocoa drink, shadowing the spirits.
Mary Mitkina
Whipped Cream
1 dollop of whipped cream adds a cloud of creamy luxury. It's the cherry on top—without it, the cocktail is just another warm drink; but just the right amount turns it into a decadent treat.
Emma Rose
Chocolate Shavings
1 tsp of chocolate shavings is the final flourish that adds texture and a hint of artisanal charm. Skip these, and you'll forfeit a simple yet effective garnish; overuse, and it'll muddy the creamy surface.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Heart Warmer Drink
- Heat the hot chocolate in a saucepan until warm, but not boiling
- In a heatproof glass or mug, combine the rum, brandy, and amaretto
- Pour the hot chocolate into the glass, stirring gently to mix
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality chocolate for the hot chocolate to enhance the flavor.
- Gently heat the hot chocolate to avoid burning it.
- Stir gently when combining the ingredients to maintain the texture of the hot chocolate.
Perfect Pairings
Savory Snacks
- Cheese Platter: A selection of rich, aged cheeses like Gouda or Cheddar can complement the sweet and warmth of the cocktail.
- Charcuterie: Smoked meats can deliver a nice contrast to the sweetness while matching the cocktail's robust body.
Desserts
- Dark Chocolate Brownies: Their bittersweet nature pairs well with the cocktail's chocolate and almond notes.
- Pecan Pie: The nuttiness of the pie will resonate with the amaretto in the drink.
Coffee
- Espresso: A strong shot of espresso can be enjoyed either before or after sipping the Heart Warmer to enhance the complex flavors.
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What you could change in Heart Warmer
- Rum: Can be replaced with bourbon or whiskey.
- Brandy: Can be replaced with cognac.
- Amaretto: Can be replaced with almond extract for a non-alcoholic version.
- Hot Chocolate: Can be replaced with coffee for a different flavor profile.
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And of course - twists🍹
Cinnamon Heart Warmer
- Ingredients: 2oz Rum, 1oz Cinnamon Liqueur, 0.5oz Amaretto, 4oz Hot Chocolate, Whipped Cream, Cinnamon Stick
- Recipe: Follow the original recipe, substituting brandy with cinnamon liqueur. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- A cinnamon liqueur adds a spicy note that can give the drink a festive twist, perfect for a holiday gathering.
Vegan Heart Warmer
- Ingredients: 2oz Spiced Rum, 1oz Brandy, 0.5oz Hazelnut Liqueur, 4oz Vegan Hot Chocolate, Coconut Whipped Cream, Dairy-Free Chocolate Shavings
- Recipe: Substitute the hot chocolate with a dairy-free version and top with coconut whipped cream. Garnish with dairy-free chocolate shavings.
- This twist accommodates those with dairy-free diets without compromising on the indulgent nature of the drink.
Coffee Heart Warmer
- Ingredients: 2oz Coffee Liqueur, 1oz Brandy, 0.5oz Amaretto, 4oz Hot Coffee, Whipped Cream, Chocolate Shavings
- Recipe: Replace hot chocolate with hot coffee and substitute rum with coffee liqueur.
- The addition of coffee and the coffee liqueur provides a caffeinated kick that can be ideal for those who want the warmth of the cocktail but with an espresso edge.
In case you forgot basics how to make Heart Warmer
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 Heart Warmer
What is the best time to drink the Heart Warmer cocktail?
While the Heart Warmer cocktail can be enjoyed at any time, it is especially appreciated during chilly winter evenings, reminiscent of its origins in the Prohibition-era speakeasies.
Can I add spices to the Heart Warmer cocktail?
Yes, while the original recipe doesn't include spices, feel free to experiment with flavors such as cinnamon or nutmeg to add an extra warmth to your cocktail.
Can I use any type of rum in this cocktail?
While any type of rum would technically work, a dark rum may provide a deeper flavor profile which perfectly complements the hot chocolate and brandy.
What type of glassware should I serve the Heart Warmer cocktail in?
Traditional glassware for this drink is a heatproof glass mug, however, it can also be served in a traditional cocktail glass if preferred.
Can I serve the Heart Warmer cocktail cold?
This cocktail is traditionally served hot, however, if you prefer a chilled cocktail, you can mix the ingredients with cold hot chocolate mix and serve over ice.
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