Irish Monkey Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Irish Monkey recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Whisky
Alcohol 14%
Calories 260 calories
Fat 8g
Protein 2g
Carbohydrates 25g
Prep time 5 minutes

Imagine sipping on the perfect Irish Monkey cocktail, a delightful blend that promises a refreshing experience with each sip. This article will explore the history, flavor, and recipe of the Irish Monkey, along with some interesting facts and fun pairings. Ready to dive in and discover the magic of this fantastic drink? Let’s get started! ⬇️

History

The Irish Monkey cocktail was born in Ireland, blending the rich heritage of Irish whiskey with the tropical allure of bananas. This drink became popular in the 20th century, reflecting a fusion of cultures. Its name is inspired by the playful and fun nature of monkeys.

  • The Irish Monkey is named after the playful spirit of monkeys.
  • It combines Irish whiskey with tropical banana flavors.
  • It became popular in the 20th century.

The taste of a Irish Monkey?

An Irish Monkey tastes smooth and creamy, with a delightful blend of whiskey’s warmth and the sweet, tropical notes of banana. It’s like a dessert in a glass, making each sip a treat.

I personally love drinking Irish Monkeys because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Interesting facts about Irish Monkey

  • It’s a great way to enjoy Irish whiskey with a fruity twist.
  • The banana flavor makes it a unique and memorable cocktail.
  • It’s often enjoyed as a dessert drink.

Ingredients 📃

  • Irish whiskey: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Banana liqueur: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Milk: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Ice: A handful
  • Banana slice: For garnish

A Irish Monkey is best served in a *highball glass*. The tall glass helps to showcase the creamy texture and keep the drink cool. Alternatively, a *rocks glass* can also be suitable.

Recipe. How to make Irish Monkey 🍹

  1. Fill a shaker with *ice* and add 2 oz (60ml) of Irish whiskey.
  2. Add 1 oz (30ml) of banana liqueur to the shaker.
  3. Pour in 2 oz (60ml) of milk and shake well until chilled.
  4. Strain the mixture into a *highball glass* filled with ice.
  5. Garnish with a *banana slice* and serve immediately.

While the Irish Monkey is delicious, it’s important to note that it can be high in sugar and calories. For a healthier version, you can use natural sweeteners or less sugar, and consider the health benefits and disadvantages of its ingredients.

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Food Pairings

Certain foods complement the flavors of an Irish Monkey, making your drinking experience even more enjoyable.

Chocolate Desserts

The creamy banana and whiskey notes pair wonderfully with rich chocolate cakes or brownies, enhancing the dessert’s sweetness.

Cheese Platters

A variety of cheeses, especially creamy and mild ones, balance the cocktail’s flavors, making it a sophisticated pairing.

Grilled Meats

The smoky and savory flavors of grilled meats work well with the sweet and creamy Irish Monkey, creating a delightful contrast.

I really enjoy the taste of Irish Monkeys—the creamy banana and warm whiskey make it a perfect drink for relaxing.


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Bartender Advice

  • *Use fresh banana slices* for garnish to enhance the tropical aroma.
  • *Chill your glassware* before serving to keep the drink cool longer.
  • *Experiment with different milk types*, like almond or coconut, for a unique twist.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Irish Monkey, 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 Irish Monkey

  • Irish whiskey: Can be replaced with bourbon for a sweeter flavor.
  • Banana liqueur: Can be substituted with banana puree for a thicker texture.
  • Milk: Can be swapped with coconut milk for a tropical twist.

Irish Monkey Variations

Chocolate Irish Monkey

  • Ingredients: Irish whiskey, chocolate liqueur, milk.
  • Recipe: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.

Tropical Irish Monkey

  • Ingredients: Irish whiskey, banana liqueur, pineapple juice.
  • Recipe: Mix ingredients with ice and serve in a highball glass.

Spiced Irish Monkey

  • Ingredients: Irish whiskey, banana liqueur, cinnamon syrup.
  • Recipe: Shake with ice and strain into a chilled glass.

For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the whiskey with a splash of vanilla extract and the banana liqueur with banana syrup. You’ll still get that delicious, creamy flavor without the alcohol.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of whiskey?

Yes, you can use bourbon or even scotch, but it will change the flavor slightly.

Is there a dairy-free option for this cocktail?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk.

What can I use as a garnish if I don’t have bananas?

You can use a twist of lemon or even a cherry for a pop of color.

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can pre-mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge for a short time.

What’s the best way to chill the glass?

You can place the glass in the freezer for a few minutes or fill it with ice water while preparing the drink.

Are there any low-calorie options?

Yes, you can use low-fat or plant-based milk and natural sweeteners to reduce calories.

Enjoy crafting your Irish Monkey, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to find your perfect blend!

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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