Stinger Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Stinger recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Brandy
Alcohol 20%
Calories 230 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 12g
Prep time 2 minutes

If you’re on a quest for the perfect Stinger, you’ve clicked on the right page! The Stinger is a cocktail that dances with cool mint and warm brandy, offering a taste as intriguing as its history. As we explore this classic drink, prepare to be whisked away on a sensory journey that touches on its origin, flavors, and the best ways to enjoy it. Let’s dive in and discover what makes the Stinger so special! ⬇️

History

The Stinger is a cocktail with a storied past, believed to have been a favorite among high society in the early 20th century. It gained popularity as a sophisticated after-dinner drink. Its roots can be traced back to America, where it flourished during the roaring twenties.

  • The Stinger was once a preferred nightcap among the wealthy elite.
  • It’s thought that the cocktail’s name reflects its sharp, piercing flavor.
  • This drink has been featured in classic movies, adding to its glamorous image.

The taste of a Stinger?

The Stinger cocktail is a refreshing blend, balancing the warmth of brandy with the crisp, clean zing of crème de menthe. It’s a sip that leaves a tingling sensation on the palate, creating a unique and memorable flavor experience.

I personally love Stingers for their smooth yet vibrant taste that makes them perfect for savoring after a meal.

Interesting facts about Stinger

  • The Stinger is often associated with the holiday season due to its festive minty flavor.
  • In the classic film “The Bishop’s Wife,” Cary Grant’s character orders a Stinger, cementing its place in pop culture.
  • The Stinger can be served over ice or straight up, making it versatile for different occasions.

Ingredients

  • Brandy: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Crème de menthe (white): 1 oz (30ml)

A Cocktail glass is the traditional choice for serving a Stinger, enhancing the elegant experience of this classic drink. An alternative could be a rocks glass, which also suits the Stinger’s sophisticated vibe.

Recipe. How to make Stinger

  1. Pour 2 oz of brandy into a mixing glass filled with ice.
  2. Add 1 oz of white crème de menthe.
  3. Stir well until the outside of the glass feels cold.
  4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
  5. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf if desired.

The Stinger, with its sweet notes, does contain sugar and calories. For a healthier twist, try using a natural sweetener or less crème de menthe in your mix.

Rate this recipe


Food Pairings

The right food can elevate the Stinger’s flavors, making the entire experience more enjoyable. Consider these pairings to complement the drink’s profile:

Chocolate Desserts

The warmth of the brandy and the cool mint in a Stinger pair delectably with the richness of chocolate, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Spicy Appetizers

The refreshing nature of the Stinger cuts through the heat of spicy dishes, creating a pleasant balance on the palate.

Cheese Platters

A varied cheese platter complements the Stinger’s complexity, with the drink’s minty freshness contrasting beautifully against the creamy textures.

I find the flavor of Stingers to be just delightful; the minty kick is a real treat!


🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
Receive the freshest cocktail recipes and bar trends directly in your inbox.
Please enter a valid email address
That address is already in use
The security code entered was incorrect
Thanks for signing up

Bartender Advice

  • Always use fresh ice when mixing to ensure your Stinger is crisp and chilled.
  • For a smoother flavor, opt for premium brandy as it makes a notable difference.
  • Don’t rush the stirring; a deliberate pace helps to marry the flavors perfectly.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Stinger, 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 Stinger

  • You can swap white crème de menthe with green for a more vibrant color and a stronger mint taste.
  • Experiment with different brandy types, like cognac, for a deeper flavor profile.
  • Consider using mint-infused simple syrup as a substitute if crème de menthe is too strong for your taste.

Stinger Variations

Chocolate Mint Stinger

  • Ingredients: Add a dash of chocolate bitters to the classic recipe.
  • Recipe: Follow the classic steps, including the bitters before stirring.

Coffee Stinger

  • Ingredients: Include 0.5 oz of coffee liqueur.
  • Recipe: Combine with brandy and crème de menthe, then stir and strain into a glass.

Frozen Stinger

  • Ingredients: Use the same ingredients but add crushed ice.
  • Recipe: Blend all ingredients until smooth and serve in a chilled glass.

For a non-alcoholic version, mix a splash of mint syrup with lemonade and serve over ice for a refreshing Virgin Stinger.

Q&A

Can the Stinger be considered a dessert cocktail?

Absolutely! Its sweet and minty profile makes it an excellent option for sipping after a meal.

What’s the best brandy to use for a Stinger?

Go for a VS or VSOP quality brandy; their refined flavor enhances the cocktail.

Is the Stinger a strong drink?

Yes, it’s quite potent due to the brandy but balanced by the sweetness of the crème de menthe.

Are there seasonal variations of the Stinger?

Certainly, adding ingredients like pumpkin spice for autumn or peppermint for the winter holidays can be delightful.

Can I make a large batch of Stingers for a party?

You sure can! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of guests and mix in a large pitcher.

Is it possible to make a Stinger with bourbon instead of brandy?

While not traditional, bourbon can be used for a twist on the classic taste, offering a different kind of warmth to the drink.

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.

Midnight

The Midnight cocktail is a dark, mysterious blend with rich flavors that dance on the palate, much like the night sky. Its deep hues and smooth finish provide a sophisticated experience perfect for contemplative evenings or elegant gatherings.

Spencer

The Spencer cocktail is an elegant, classic drink with a harmonious blend of smooth gin and the herbal vermouth, garnished with a twist of lemon. It offers a refined taste that is both sophisticated and effortlessly enjoyable.

Frost Bite

The Frost Bite is a cool, crisp cocktail with a tantalizing blend of fruity flavors and a gentle hint of mint, making it delightfully refreshing. Its smooth, icy appearance and soothing taste create a perfect balance for a relaxing sip.

New York

A New York cocktail is a sophisticated blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters, creating a smooth and complex flavor. It's a classic drink that offers a rich taste with a hint of sweetness, making it both refined and enjoyable.

Lemon Lime

A Lemon Lime cocktail is a vibrant and zesty beverage that blends the tangy flavors of lemon and lime with a smooth spirit base. It offers a delightful dance of tartness and sweetness on the palate, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a citrusy refreshment.

Goodnight Kiss

The Goodnight Kiss is an elegant cocktail, offering a delicate blend of smooth flavors with a whisper of citrus. It's a sophisticated choice that gently soothes the palate as one savors its serene finish.