📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Banana liqueur
Alcohol 10%
Calories 300 calories
Fat 5g
Protein 2g
Carbohydrates 40g
Prep time 2 minutes
If you’re in search of the perfect Monkey’s Lunch, a creamy concoction of sweet bananas and a kick of coffee, you’re in the right place. By diving into its history, taste, and craft, we’re about to uncover the layers that make this drink a delightful indulgence. Join us on this flavorful journey, and let’s shake up your cocktail routine together! ⬇️
History
The Monkey’s Lunch cocktail is a relatively recent creation, blending flavors that pay homage to the playful nature of its namesake. It emerged from the vibrant bar culture, where mixologists are always eager to innovate. This drink captures the essence of modern cocktail artistry while maintaining a sense of lighthearted fun.
- The name ‘Monkey’s Lunch’ is believed to reflect the cocktail’s playful and fun spirit.
- It gained popularity in the 1990s, amidst the rise of dessert-like cocktails.
- Though its exact origin is unclear, it’s a favorite in both bars and home cocktail parties.
The taste of a Monkey’s Lunch?
A Monkey’s Lunch tastes like a sweet escape to a tropical paradise, with creamy banana flavors dancing alongside a bold coffee finish. Its velvety texture and dessert-like quality make it an irresistible treat for those with a sweet tooth.
I personally love drinking Monkey’s Lunches because they’re like a dessert you can sip, blending my love for coffee and sweet bananas in one glass.
Interesting facts about Monkey’s Lunch
- The cocktail is often garnished with a cherry or banana slice to emphasize its fruity notes.
- Monkey’s Lunch can be served blended for a frozen treat or shaken for a smoother texture.
- It’s a popular choice for brunches and afternoon gatherings, thanks to its sweet and satisfying profile.
Ingredients
- Banana liqueur: 1 oz (30ml)
- Coffee liqueur: 1 oz (30ml)
- Milk or cream: 2 oz (60ml)
Highball glass is the best to serve a Monkey’s Lunch, as it showcases the creamy layers beautifully. An Old Fashioned glass could also be suitable, offering a wider brim for the aroma to entice the senses.
Recipe. How to make Monkey’s Lunch
- Pour 1 oz (30ml) of banana liqueur into a shaker.
- Add 1 oz (30ml) of coffee liqueur.
- Top with 2 oz (60ml) of milk or cream.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled highball glass filled with ice.
Monkey’s Lunch is a sweet treat, but it’s wise to be mindful of its sugar and calorie content. To make it healthier, use natural sweeteners like honey or agave, and consider using low-fat milk. While delicious, it’s a cocktail that should be enjoyed in moderation.
Food Pairings
Certain foods can enhance the enjoyment of a Monkey’s Lunch, highlighting its rich and sweet flavor profile. Here are some ideal food pairings:
Nuts & Cheese Platter
The nutty and creamy textures of a well-curated cheese platter complement the sweet and creamy notes of a Monkey’s Lunch, making for a harmonious pairing.
Dark Chocolate Desserts
A slice of decadent dark chocolate cake or brownies pairs beautifully with the coffee notes of the cocktail, creating a luxurious tasting experience.
Fruit Tarts
The fresh and tangy flavors of fruit tarts balance the sweetness of a Monkey’s Lunch, offering a delightful contrast on the palate.
I really like the flavor of Monkey’s Lunches—the cool creaminess mixed with the sweet and bold layers makes it a perfect drink for sipping slowly and savoring.
🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh ingredients for the garnish to enhance the drink’s appeal and flavor.
- Chill the glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold and refreshing.
- For a perfectly smooth texture, shake the cocktail vigorously for at least 15 seconds.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Monkey’s Lunch, 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 Monkey’s Lunch
- Banana liqueur: Can be swapped with banana-flavored syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
- Coffee liqueur: Experiment with flavored coffee liqueurs, like vanilla or hazelnut, for a twist.
- Milk or cream: Use alternative milk like almond or coconut for a different taste and lighter version.
Monkey’s Lunch Variations
Chocolate Monkey
- Ingredients: Add chocolate syrup to the original ingredients.
- Recipe: Drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring in the mixed cocktail.
Frozen Monkey
- Ingredients: Use the same ingredients but add ice.
- Recipe: Blend all the ingredients with ice until smooth, then serve in a chilled glass.
Spiked Monkey
- Ingredients: Include a shot of vodka to the mix.
- Recipe: Add the vodka to the shaker along with the other ingredients, then shake and serve as usual.
For a ‘Virgin Monkey’s Lunch’, simply combine banana and coffee syrups with milk or cream. Shake well with ice and enjoy a delightful, non-alcoholic version of the classic.
Q&A
Can I use banana fruit instead of banana liqueur?
Absolutely! Muddle a ripe banana in the shaker before adding the rest of the ingredients for a fresh twist.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to milk or cream in the Monkey’s Lunch?
Yes, you can use almond, coconut, or soy milk to keep the cocktail dairy-free and just as delicious.
How can I make a Monkey’s Lunch if I don’t have a shaker?
You can mix the ingredients well with a spoon in a glass, although the texture might be slightly less creamy.
What’s the best way to garnish a Monkey’s Lunch?
A classic cherry on top or a banana slice on the rim of the glass makes for a delightful garnish.
Can Monkey’s Lunch be made in large batches for parties?
Certainly! Mix the ingredients in a large pitcher and keep it chilled until ready to serve over ice.
Is Monkey’s Lunch suitable for all ages?
The traditional recipe contains alcohol, but you can easily make a non-alcoholic version that’s suitable for all guests.
