A Mexican candy shot is a sweet and spicy layered shot that typically consists of agave tequila, coffee liqueur, milk or cream, and cinnamon. The layers combine to create a delicious flavor experience with alternating notes of spice, sweetness, and richness. Mexican candy shots are fun, festive shots that are commonly served around Cinco de Mayo but can be enjoyed any time of year.
Ingredients
The main ingredients in a classic Mexican candy shot are:
- Tequila – Typically a silver/blanco agave tequila. This provides the base spirit and flavor.
- Coffee liqueur – Kahlua or other coffee liqueur provides sweetness and a rich coffee undertone.
- Milk/cream – Whole milk or heavy cream provides creaminess and helps the layers separate.
- Cinnamon – Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice.
In addition to these key ingredients, some recipes may also call for:
- Chocolate syrup – Adds extra richness and sweetness.
- Whipped cream – Can be used as a topping layer.
- Dulce de leche – For an extra caramel flavor note.
Layering Method
A Mexican candy shot is made by carefully layering the ingredients into a shot glass. Here is the typical layering method:
- Add milk/cream to fill about 1/4 of the shot glass.
- Gently pour in the coffee liqueur to create a second layer floating on top of the cream.
- Slowly add the tequila next so it floats on the coffee layer.
- Finish with a dusting of cinnamon on top.
The density of the liquids causes them to layer nicely. The key is to pour each ingredient slowly and gently to maintain the layers. Some recipes may add layers in a different order, but the technique remains the same.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican candy shots can be served in a few different ways:
- As a straight up shot – Shoot it back and enjoy the layered flavors!
- With a stirrer – Provide a stirrer so the drinker can swirl the layers together themselves.
- With a straw – Insert a straw so guests can sip and experience the flavors mixed together.
No matter how they are served, Mexican candy shots should be consumed relatively quickly before the layers blend together on their own. They have the best visual appeal when the layers are still distinct.
Flavor Profile
When consumed, a Mexican candy shot provides a sweet and spicy flavor experience. The transition of flavors is part of the fun!
Initially, you taste the sweet coffee liqueur followed by the kick of cinnamon. Next, the rich and creamy milk/cream layer coats your mouth. Finally, the agave tequila provides an herbal, earthy base note. The cinnamon spice lingers on the tongue afterwards.
The contrast of sugar and spice, cooled by the creamy layer in between, makes for an exciting and well-balanced shot.
Popularity
Mexican candy shots rose to popularity in the United States and Canada, especially in bars and restaurants around Cinco de Mayo. However, their sweet-meets-spice flavor profile makes them appealing all year round.
Some reasons for their widespread popularity include:
- Unique and fun drinking experience due to the layers.
- Balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
- Festive look when served in a shot glass.
- Relatively easy to make.
Variations
While the standard layers are tequila, coffee liqueur, cream, and cinnamon, the Mexican candy shot is very customizable. Some popular flavor variations include:
- Mexican Chocolate – Use chocolate liqueur instead of coffee liqueur.
- Caramel Apple – Add a caramel sauce layer and rim the glass with green apple sugar.
- Hazelnut – Use Frangelico instead of coffee liqueur.
- Jalapeno – Rim glass with salt, chili powder and add a jalapeno slice garnish.
- Tropical – Use coconut milk, rum, and top with whipped cream and pineapple.
The basic formula can be adapted with different liquors, cream options, spices, and toppings to create invented flavor combinations.
Recipes
Here are some standard recipes for classic Mexican candy shots and popular variations:
Classic Mexican Candy
- 1 oz tequila
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz heavy cream
- Dash of ground cinnamon
Caramel Apple Mexican Candy
- 1 oz tequila
- 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
- 1 oz caramel sauce
- 1 oz heavy cream
- Green apple sugar rim
Tropical Mexican Candy
- 1 oz coconut rum
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz coconut milk
- Whipped cream
- Pineapple wedge garnish
Conclusion
With its layers of flavors like sweet, spice, and cream, a Mexican candy shot is the ideal festive drink. The unique combination of tequila, coffee liqueur, milk/cream, and cinnamon creates a sweet and spicy flavor experience. While traditional Mexican candy shots are popular, the basic formula can be customized endlessly to create new variations. So get creative with the layers and have fun with this south of the border cocktail!