After 8 Martini

Introduction

History

The After 8 Martini is inspired by the famous After Eight chocolate mints that were first introduced in the United Kingdom in 1962. These chocolates are known for their thin, rectangular shape and the unique combination of dark chocolate and mint fondant. The cocktail version seeks to capture the essence of this beloved confectionery in a drinkable form. It became popular in upscale bars and restaurants as a post-dinner cocktail, offering a sophisticated twist on dessert.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect After 8 Martini, ensure that all ingredients are of high quality. Use a premium vodka and genuine De Kuyper liqueurs for the best taste. When rimming the glass with chocolate powder, make sure it's finely sifted to avoid clumps. For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish the drink with a fresh mint leaf or a small piece of After Eight chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

The After 8 Martini is best served as a dessert cocktail or a sophisticated drink at a dinner party. It pairs wonderfully with chocolate desserts, vanilla ice cream, or simply on its own as a liquid dessert.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique for the After 8 Martini is stirring the mixture with ice to chill it without diluting the flavors too much. Ensure to strain the mixture well to achieve a smooth texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Stolichnaya vodka is not available, any high-quality vodka will suffice. Similarly, if De Kuyper liqueurs are not accessible, other brands of white crème de menthe and crème de cacao can be used.

Make Ahead Tips

The After 8 Martini is best prepared fresh. However, you can pre-measure the ingredients into a container and store them in the refrigerator to be stirred with ice and served when needed.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the chocolate powder evenly around the rim of the martini glass. A mint leaf or a thin slice of After Eight chocolate on the rim can add a touch of sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

This cocktail pairs beautifully with chocolate-based desserts, such as chocolate lava cake, brownies, or chocolate mousse. It also complements the flavors of vanilla and raspberry desserts.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

The After 8 Martini should be consumed immediately after preparation and does not store well. It is not suitable for reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of After 8 Martini contains approximately 200 calories. The calories mainly come from the alcohol and the sugar content in the liqueurs.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of an After 8 Martini contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the crème de cacao and crème de menthe, which are sweet liqueurs.

Fats

This cocktail is relatively low in fats, with only trace amounts present. Any fat content would primarily come from the chocolate powder used for garnishing, which is negligible.

Proteins

The After 8 Martini contains minimal protein, as it is primarily made of alcoholic ingredients and does not include protein-rich components.

Vitamins and minerals

The After 8 Martini does not significantly contribute to your daily intake of vitamins and minerals. It is primarily a pleasure drink rather than a nutritional one.

Alergens

The main allergens to be aware of in this cocktail are alcohol and potentially traces of nuts or dairy from the chocolate powder, depending on the brand used. Always check the labels if you have specific allergies.

Summary

The After 8 Martini is a high-calorie, indulgent cocktail with a focus on taste rather than nutritional value. It's low in proteins, fats, and does not significantly contribute to your intake of vitamins and minerals. Enjoy it as a special treat rather than a regular part of your diet.

Summary

The After 8 Martini is a luxurious cocktail that captures the essence of the classic After Eight mint chocolates in a drinkable form. It's perfect for special occasions or when you're in the mood for something indulgent. With its rich flavors of chocolate and mint, it's a delightful way to end a meal or enjoy a sophisticated treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer evening, and I was attending a cocktail party at a friend's house. As I mingled with the other guests, my friend handed me a glass of After Eight Martini. The rich chocolate and mint flavors danced on my taste buds, and I was instantly hooked.

I asked my friend for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. She explained that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations. The secret to the delicious drink, she told me, was the combination of creamy Godiva chocolate liqueur, smooth vodka, and refreshing peppermint schnapps.

I was determined to recreate the After Eight Martini at home, so I set out to gather the ingredients. I visited a local liquor store and purchased the Godiva chocolate liqueur and peppermint schnapps. I already had some vodka on hand, so I was all set to start experimenting.

I carefully measured out the ingredients and mixed them together in a shaker with some ice. I shook the mixture vigorously, imagining the flavors blending together to create a perfect harmony. I poured the drink into a chilled martini glass and garnished it with a sprig of fresh mint.

I took a sip and closed my eyes, savoring the rich chocolate and cool mint flavors. It was even better than I remembered from the party. I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the After Eight Martini for countless gatherings with friends and family. It has become a signature drink of mine, and I am always eager to share the recipe with anyone who asks. The combination of chocolate and mint is a winning one, and it never fails to impress.

As I continued to make the After Eight Martini, I started to experiment with different variations. I tried adding a splash of Irish cream for a creamier texture, or a drizzle of dark chocolate syrup for an extra decadent touch. Each time, the drink was a hit, and I received compliments on my mixology skills.

One day, I was hosting a dinner party for some close friends, and I decided to surprise them with a new twist on the After Eight Martini. I had recently come across a recipe for a homemade mint-infused vodka, and I thought it would be the perfect addition to the drink.

I carefully infused the vodka with fresh mint leaves, allowing the flavors to meld together over several days. When the time came to make the After Eight Martini, I was excited to see how the mint-infused vodka would elevate the drink.

I mixed the infused vodka with the Godiva chocolate liqueur and peppermint schnapps, shaking it all together with ice. I poured the drink into martini glasses and garnished each one with a sprig of fresh mint.

As my friends took their first sips of the mint-infused After Eight Martini, their eyes widened in delight. They exclaimed over the fresh mint flavor and how it complemented the chocolate and peppermint perfectly.

That night, my friends raved about the drink, and I felt a sense of pride in creating something truly special. The After Eight Martini had evolved from a simple cocktail recipe into a work of art, thanks to my experimentation and creativity.

As I sit here reminiscing about the journey of learning to make the After Eight Martini, I am grateful for the experiences and memories that have come along with it. It has become more than just a drink – it is a symbol of my passion for cooking and entertaining, and a reminder of the joy that sharing delicious food and drinks can bring.

I will continue to perfect and innovate upon the recipe, always seeking new ways to surprise and delight my loved ones. The After Eight Martini will always hold a special place in my heart, as a testament to the power of good food, good drinks, and good company. Cheers to many more years of enjoying this delightful cocktail!

Categories

| Crème De Cacao Drink Recipes | Crème De Menthe Drink Recipes | Vodka Drink Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients