American Flag Shooter Cocktail Recipe
This layered patriotic cocktail creates a striking red, white, and blue effect. It’s perfect for Fourth of July celebrations or any American-themed party, really.
Equipment
- 3 shot glasses (clear glass is best for showing off the layers)
- 1 bar spoon with a long handle
- 1 Jigger or measuring tool
- 1 pour spout (optional)
Ingredients
Red Layer:
- 1/2 oz grenadine syrup
White Layer:
- 1/2 oz white crème de cacao or Bailey's Irish Cream
Blue Layer:
- 1/2 oz blue curaçao liqueur
Instructions
- Pour the grenadine into the bottom of the shot glass first.
- With the back of a bar spoon, slowly pour the white crème de cacao or Bailey's over the spoon so it gently settles onto the grenadine layer.
- Again using the spoon, add the blue curaçao as the top layer, pouring slowly.
- Take your time with each layer—no need to rush. Pouring slowly really does make a difference, and the spoon trick is crucial.
- Hold the spoon just above the previous layer and let the liquid run down the stem. It’s a little finicky, but you’ll get those crisp color separations for the full flag effect.
Notes
This cocktail is meant to be knocked back as a shooter. If you let it sit too long, the layers will start to blend together.
Want a non-alcoholic version? Try blue sports drink instead of curaçao, milk or coconut cream for the white layer, and stick with grenadine for the red.
The American Flag Shooter is also great for group servings. Make a bunch at once and do a synchronized toast—always a hit at patriotic get-togethers.
The taste is a mix of sweet, fruity flavors and creamy notes. If you like one flavor more than the others, you can tweak the proportions a bit. No need to overthink it.