As you've probably figured out, celebrations with my friends (almost) always call for a signature drink. Of course birthdays are no different. We've enjoyed birthday-tinis in the past - try vanilla vodka, pineapple juice, and amaretto for a surprisingly cakey flavor! - but for last night's soiree, we went for full-on decadence!
These drinks are creamy delicious, but the presentation really makes it special.
Birthday cake martinis2 oz. vodka (cake, vanilla or whipped flavor)
1.5 oz. amaretto
1 oz. white chocolate liquor
1 oz. half & half
Presentation:
Honey
Party nonpareils
Lemons
Birthday candles
Measure: I made them in batches of 1 cup, 3/4 cup, 1/2 cup, 1/2 cup respectively until I had a pitcher full. Prep was key because I didn't want to keep the birthday girl waiting once she was ready to make her wish!
Prep part 1: Rim the martini glasses with the nonpareils using honey to make them stick. Usually I use lemon or lime juice as the "sticking agent" but with nonpareils the liquid melts the colors into a brown mess. Honey is the better choice! Arrange the rimmed glasses on a tray or table.Slice lemons into discs until you have enough for one per glass. Tuck a birthday candle into each slice so they stand up.
Then it's time to "make the cake!"
Shake: Shaking is key. Add batches of the martini "batter" to a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. Get it good and frothy.Pour into rimmed glasses. Repeat until the whole arrangement of glasses is full.
Prep part 2: Carefully float a lemon slice with candle on the top of each filled glass.
Light the candles and start singing!
Happy birthday, dear Kelli! Happy birthday to you!
sip. savor. celebrate.
