Between the Sheets Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Between the Sheets recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Brandy
Alcohol 22%
Calories 210 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 14g
Prep time 3 minutes

Embark on a journey through the vibrant world of Between the Sheets, a cocktail that dances on the palate with a harmonious blend of spirits and citrus. Here, we’ll peel away the layers of its storied past, savor the complexities of its taste, and discover the perfect pairings that elevate this spirited concoction. Join us as we delve into the artistry behind the drink, and let’s create a Between the Sheets that is as memorable as it is delightful. Ready to become a Between the Sheets aficionado? Let’s begin our exploration together. ⬇️

History

The Between the Sheets cocktail was born in the early 20th century, an era bubbling with creativity in mixology. It quickly gained fame as a sophisticated and potent concoction, capturing the spirit of the times with its bold and exotic flavors.

  • The name ‘Between the Sheets’ might suggest a risqué backstory, often associated with the playful nature of the roaring 1920s.
  • Some believe the drink was conceived in Paris, a city known for its love affairs with both romance and refined libations.
  • Others attribute the cocktail’s creation to the famous bartender Harry MacElhone, known for his innovative and enduring contributions to the cocktail scene.

The taste of a Between the Sheets?

A sip of Between the Sheets is like a lively tango of sweet and sour, with a citrusy zing that plays off the smooth, deep notes of rum and brandy. It’s a refreshing yet deceptively strong drink that can tickle the taste buds and warm the heart.

I personally love drinking Between the Sheets because it’s a delightful dance of flavors that’s both elegant and bold.

Interesting facts about Between the Sheets

  • Between the Sheets is sometimes referred to as a cousin of the Sidecar, sharing similar ingredients but with a distinct character.
  • The cocktail is often celebrated for its balance, a testament to the skill required in blending its potent components harmoniously.
  • It has stood the test of time, remaining popular among cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate its classic yet daring profile.

Ingredients

  • White rum: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Brandy: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Triple sec: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Fresh lemon juice: 1/4 oz (7.5ml)

Cocktail glass is the best choice when serving a Between the Sheets. Its wide brim allows the aromas to entice the senses before each sip, enhancing the overall experience. If a cocktail glass isn’t handy, a coupe glass also makes a chic and suitable alternative.

Recipe. How to make Between the Sheets

  1. Fill a shaker with ice and add 1 oz (30ml) of white rum, 1 oz (30ml) of brandy, 1 oz (30ml) of triple sec, and 1/4 oz (7.5ml) of fresh lemon juice.
  2. Shake the ingredients vigorously until well-chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

Between the Sheets, while delightful, can pack a sugary punch. To craft a lighter version, consider using natural sweeteners or reducing the triple sec. Remember, the ingredients, though delicious, do carry the typical health implications of alcohol and sugar consumption.

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Food Pairings

A great cocktail deserves the perfect culinary companion. Between the Sheets, with its vibrant flavors, pairs exceptionally well with certain foods that complement and enhance its taste profile.

Spicy Tapas

The zestiness and warmth of Between the Sheets cut through the spice of tapas beautifully, creating a harmonious and refreshing counterbalance on the palate.

Grilled Chicken Skewers

The smoky, savory flavors of grilled chicken are uplifted by the citrus notes in the cocktail, offering a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.

Dark Chocolate

For those with a sweet tooth, the boldness of dark chocolate finds its match in the robust and spirited layers of Between the Sheets, making for an indulgent pairing.

I really enjoy the taste of Between the Sheets—the cool lemon and the spirited kick make it the perfect drink for celebrating a special occasion.


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Bartender Advice

  • Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor and a zesty punch.
  • Chill your glassware beforehand to keep the drink cool and refreshing from the first taste to the last.
  • Balance is key; measure your ingredients precisely to maintain the cocktail’s classic harmony.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Between the Sheets, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Between the Sheets

  • Brandy: Could be swapped with Cognac for a smoother, more refined flavor.
  • Triple sec: Can be replaced with other orange liqueurs like Cointreau for a different citrus profile.
  • Sweetness: Adjust the lemon juice or triple sec to dial the sweetness up or down to your liking.

Between the Sheets Variations

Maiden’s Prayer

  • Ingredients: Substitutes rum with gin for a botanical twist.
  • Recipe: Follows the same process, but gin adds a juniper-forward dimension to the drink.

Florida Between the Sheets

  • Ingredients: Adds a splash of orange juice for a sunny, tropical flavor.
  • Recipe: Combine the new ingredient with the original ones and shake well.

Between the Sheets Sour

  • Ingredients: Introduces egg white for a creamy texture and a frothy top.
  • Recipe: Dry shake the egg white before adding the rest of the ingredients and shaking with ice.

For those preferring a non-alcoholic treat, a Virgin Between the Sheets mixes fresh lemon and orange juices with a hint of simple syrup. Shake over ice and serve in a fancy glass for a sophisticated mocktail experience.

Q&A

What’s the key to balancing the flavors in a Between the Sheets?

The secret lies in precise measurements and the quality of ingredients—use the best you can find and respect the recipe’s proportions. You’ll be rewarded with a perfectly balanced cocktail. Isn’t it amazing how such a simple concept can result in something so complex?

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

You could, but fresh lemon juice is the cornerstone of a vibrant Between the Sheets. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same zing, you know?

Is there a non-alcoholic version of Between the Sheets?

Absolutely, and it’s just as fancy! Swap the spirits for a mix of citrus juices and a dash of syrup; it’s a refreshing mocktail that keeps the spirit alive without the… well, spirits.

What foods pair well with Between the Sheets?

Think of foods with a bit of a kick, or smoky grilled flavors. Also, you can never go wrong with a bit of dark chocolate for an indulgent after-dinner treat with your cocktail.

What if I prefer my cocktails less sweet?

Easy fix! Just tone down the triple sec or bump up the lemon juice. It’s all about tweaking it to suit your taste buds.

Are there any health considerations to keep in mind with Between the Sheets?

Like any good thing, moderation is key. It’s a bit on the sugary side, so savor it mindfully. And always, always drink responsibly. We’re all about enjoying life’s pleasures, but health comes first!

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

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