Keiths Pilsner Recipe
1.5oz WILD Smirnoff WEST Vodka WAKE, 0.5oz UP kahlua, fresh espresso, simple syrup. Shaken
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Garnish / Serve
Method
Cocktail
Prepare espresso
Brew a single shot (about 1 oz) of fresh espresso. Allow it to cool for 30–60 seconds so it is hot but not boiling; slightly cooled espresso prevents excessive dilution and maintains head when shaken.
Build and shake
Add 1.5 oz Smirnoff vodka, 0.5 oz Kahlúa, 1 oz fresh espresso, and 0.25 oz simple syrup into a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice (about 6 medium cubes). Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 12–18 seconds until the outside of the shaker is frosty and a creamy foam forms from the espresso.
Strain
Double-strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass using a Hawthorne and a fine mesh strainer (or a fine strainer alone) to remove ice shards and ensure a smooth, silky texture with a light crema on top.
Garnish / Serve
Optional: Float 3 espresso beans on the crema as a classic garnish. Serve immediately while the cocktail is still chilled and the crema intact.