Cognac and Brandy do not get enough love in the world of at-home mixology. They are a little unapproachable because of the perception that we have to be drinking them in our mansion with a smoking jacket on. And the price tag also supports the fancy perception. For Drinkmas and here at Whiskey HQ, we do not discriminate and we’ve got one of my favorite Brandy cocktails for you to try. It’s called the Zoom Cocktail.
HOW DID I LEARN ABOUT THIS COCKTAIL?
From this anime called Love is a Cocktail, available for viewing on Crunchyroll here. The main character is hugged by her partner for 30 seconds because he heard that it makes people feel better. He proceeds to make a Zoom cocktail that is like an embrace in a cup! It’s funny that it has the same name as the app we are all using to stay connected. There is significant research on why hugs can lessen stress and strengthen connections. And although we can’t all hug right now. You can definitely make this cocktail.
WHAT DOES IT TASTES LIKE?
It’s sweet, very sweet. Almost like tiramisu in a cup without the coffee flavor. Fair warning now: it’s very rich and quite strong, great for after dinner for a small indulgent dessert.
WAYS TO CHEER YOURSELF UP THIS HOLIDAY!
It would be remiss of us to imply that you have to be shiny and happy for the holidays so know that here, we believe in self-compassion and doing what you need to do to take care of yourself so I also included some strategies that have worked for me to beat those very real holiday blues:
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Practice an attitude of gratitude. I KNOW! I want to punch everyone in the face when I am told to practice gratitude. It feels awkward at first but eventually, you will train yourself to see the good and not in a toxically positive way.
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Embrace the season, pay extra attention to it right now. This is a sort of piggyback on the last one. It’s a really hard time right now and I am not gonna deny that COVID-19 has gotten me down. But it’s been helpful noticing the changes and just letting them be, without wistful judgment. Easier in theory than in practice, I know.
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Pick up that phone or take it old school, write a letter. Reach out, communicate. Make it an event even. When was the last time you sent a letter?
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Jump. Do it. You can’t be sad while jumping. Apologies to those who have downstairs neighbors!
Be creative by trying a new recipe! Wink wink nudge nudge.
The Zoom Cocktail
Again I reiterate: It’s sweet, very sweet. Almost like tiramisu in a cup without the coffee flavor. Fair warning now: it’s very rich and quite strong, great for after dinner for a small indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
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1 oz VS Brandy or Cognac – we used E&J Spirits VS Brandy*
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1 oz Honey
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2 oz Milk or Cream – we used Oat milk
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Garnish: Cocoa powder & Cinnamon (optional), sifted
Directions
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In a mixing glass, pour 1 ounce of VS Cognac (or other brandy of your choice), followed by 1 ounce of honey. Stir well until completely emulsified (pre-heating the honey will make this a little easier)
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Pour brandy/honey mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into an aperitif or dessert wine glass.
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Pour 2 ounces of cream into the glass.
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With a small spoon, pour a small amount of cocoa powder and cinnamon into a strainer and lightly dust the top of the cocktail. Now it is a Zoom!
Tips & Tricks:
- ? Purchase the 375ml size to save a bit of moolah if you are not sure if you like brandy yet.
- ☁️ You can also shake the cocktail instead of stir and it will make a frothier texture.
Like cocktails and the holidays? Check out our other 12 Days of Drinkmas Cocktails here. Follow us on Instagram for updates.
Cheers babe!
KK
