Dear Reader: These are extraordinary times we’re living in, and while we always have a view toward health and wellness, sometimes the concept of self-care and wellness becomes a little different. As our needs shift, self-care might look like an over-the-top blanket fort in the living room… or decadent treats that aren’t normally a part of your diet. We believe that sometimes it’s OK to forego the usual self-care routine. That’s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “yummy but maybe not for every day” recipes for you to try. Enjoy!
“I prefer to drink my dessert.” If this is something you have said in the past, or could see yourself saying, you’re in the right place my friend. It’s hard to classify this yummy cocktail in either category.
One of my favorite things to do is going out for a wonderful meal with dear friends, and I’ve always loved the ambiance of restaurants. Alive and abuzz with activity, restaurant dining rooms make for the best people-watching. It’s hard not to feel inspired and enjoy great conversation in a lively setting with staff and fellow patrons alike, going about their business. It’s easy to linger over dessert or a cocktail, and stretch the time out a little longer. Sometimes it’s hard to decide which to go for – dessert or cocktail – but if you’re like me, there’s nothing wrong with bringing those two things together.
That’s exactly what’s going on with this delightfully over-the-top, decadent-to-the-hilt, banana cream pie martini extravaganza. You read that right! The kind of thing you’d find on special in an upscale diner on a busy Friday night, this yummy, sweet and rich “maybe it’s a dessert, maybe it’s a drink” drink will have you saying “well OK maybe just one more”.
Be careful with these sweet treats, they pack a punch! With 2 ounces of vodka, an ounce of Bailey’s, and another ounce of banana liqueur in every martini, it’s certainly easy to say “more, please”! When it’s happening right in your own living room, some might say it’s a little too easy.
Ingredients:
- Cinnamon sugar
- Lemon wedge
- Ice
- 4 oz. Smirnoff vanilla vodka
- 2 oz. Baileys
- 2 oz. banana liqueur
- Whipped cream
- 1/4 c. crushed Nilla Wafers
- 1/4 banana, sliced
Instructions:
- Put your cinnamon sugar in a shallow dish. Wet the rims of two martini glasses with lemon, then dip them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to evenly coat them.
- Next, into your cocktail shaker add the ice, vodka, Baileys, and banana liqueur. Vigorously shake until well chilled. Strain this mixture into your martini glasses.
- Top this deliciousness with whipped cream and crumbled Nilla Wafers. Add banana slices for garnish and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
- Cheers, enjoy!
