CocktailRecipes

Smith And Kerns Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Smith And Kerns recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Kahlua
Alcohol 10%
Calories 210 calories
Fat 10g
Protein 1g
Carbohydrates 15g
Prep time 2 minutes

If you’re aiming to craft the perfect Smith And Kerns or just eager to indulge in a refreshing cocktail experience, you’re in for a treat. In this journey, we’ll explore the Smith And Kerns cocktail, delving into its rich history, its unique taste profile, and how it’s presented, providing a sensory exploration that mirrors the emotional and thematic layers within the drink itself. Let’s embark on this flavorful adventure together. ⬇️

History

The Smith And Kerns cocktail, a beloved classic, finds its roots in the mid-20th century, emerging as a staple in the world of sophisticated drinking. Known for its smooth texture and refreshing taste, this drink has stood the test of time, embodying a blend of culture and refreshment in each sip.

  • The name “Smith And Kerns” is thought to be derived from the surnames of its purported creators, two bartenders from the early 1950s.
  • Originally crafted in a bustling New York City bar, the cocktail quickly gained popularity across the United States.
  • The drink’s reputation was cemented in cocktail history books when it was featured in a renowned mixologist’s collection in the late 1960s.

The taste of a Smith And Kerns?

A Smith And Kerns cocktail offers a rich, creamy taste with a hint of coffee, making it an exceptional choice for those who appreciate depth in their beverages. The combination of coffee liqueur and light cream balanced with the fizz of soda water creates a delightful experience on the palate.

I personally love drinking Smith And Kerns because it’s incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Interesting facts about Smith And Kerns

  • The Smith And Kerns cocktail was initially intended as a dessert drink but has found its place as a versatile cocktail for any occasion.
  • It’s one of the few cocktails that equally appeals to coffee lovers and cocktail aficionados.
  • In some regions, it’s served as a holiday drink, associated with festive gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

  • Coffee liqueur: 1.5 oz (45ml)
  • Light cream: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Soda water: to top up

A highball glass is the ideal choice for serving a Smith And Kerns, enhancing the visual appeal and allowing the perfect ratio of ingredients to blend seamlessly. An alternative could be a rocks glass, offering a different aesthetic while maintaining the drink’s integrity.

Recipe. How to make Smith And Kerns

  1. Add ice cubes to a highball glass until it’s half full.
  2. Pour 1.5 oz of coffee liqueur over the ice.
  3. Add 1 oz of light cream.
  4. Top up with soda water, stir gently, and serve immediately.

Smith And Kerns, while delightful, does come with a consideration for sugar and calorie content, typical of liqueur-based cocktails. For a healthier twist, consider substituting the cream with a low-fat alternative or using natural sweeteners. The ingredients, though indulgent, can be balanced for a guilt-free enjoyment.

2/5


Food Pairings

Certain foods beautifully complement the flavors of a Smith And Kerns, enhancing the overall drinking experience. Here are some suggestions:

Chocolate Desserts

The rich coffee flavor of Smith And Kerns pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of chocolate, making it an excellent choice for dessert courses.

Savory Snacks

Cheese platters or salty nuts contrast nicely with the creamy sweetness of the cocktail, offering a delightful taste experience.

Spicy Dishes

The smooth, creamy texture of the Smith And Kerns can help soothe the palate when enjoying spicy foods, creating a balanced dining adventure.

I find the flavor of Smith And Kerns utterly captivating; the cool creaminess mixed with the deep, rich notes of coffee is just unbeatable on any day.

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Bartender Advice

  • Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cooler for longer.
  • Use fresh cream for the best flavor and texture in your cocktail.
  • Adjust the ratio of coffee liqueur to cream based on your taste preference for a personalized experience.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Smith And Kerns, 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 Smith And Kerns

  • Swap coffee liqueur with chocolate liqueur for a sweeter, chocolaty twist.
  • Use sparkling water instead of soda for a lighter fizz.
  • Experiment with different cream types, such as almond milk cream, for a dairy-free version.

Smith And Kerns Variations

Vanilla Bean Smith And Kerns

  • Ingredients: Add vanilla bean paste along with the standard ingredients.
  • Recipe: Mix as usual and garnish with a vanilla pod for an aromatic twist.

Spicy Cinnamon Smith And Kerns

  • Ingredients: Include a dash of cinnamon powder with the original ingredients.
  • Recipe: Stir well and top with a cinnamon stick for a spicy kick.

Mocha Smith And Kerns

  • Ingredients: Combine chocolate syrup with the coffee liqueur.
  • Recipe: Prepare as usual and serve with a light dusting of cocoa powder.

For those preferring a non-alcoholic version, a Virgin Smith And Kerns is easily crafted by substituting the coffee liqueur with coffee-flavored syrup and following the original recipe. This adaptation ensures everyone can enjoy the essence of this classic cocktail.

Q&A

Can I make Smith And Kerns in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time, but add the soda water just before serving to maintain its fizz.

Is there a vegan alternative to the cream?

Absolutely, almond milk or coconut cream makes for excellent vegan substitutes, keeping the drink’s creamy texture.

How can I adjust the sweetness of my Smith And Kerns?

Play around with the amount of coffee liqueur or consider adding a bit of simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter taste.

Can Smith And Kerns be served as a dessert drink?

Indeed, its creamy and rich coffee flavor makes it a perfect after-dinner treat that complements desserts wonderfully.

What’s the best way to garnish a Smith And Kerns?

A sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few coffee beans adds a sophisticated touch, enhancing the drink’s visual appeal and aroma.

Are there any non-dairy alternatives that work well in a Smith And Kerns?

Yes, many non-dairy milks, such as oat or soy milk, offer a delightful creaminess without the dairy. Experiment to find your favorite!

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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