A smooth and creamy cocktail with just the right amount of sweetness, the Banshee is like dessert in a glass. With hints of banana and chocolate, it’s easy to love and even easier to make. I’ve made this drink countless times-especially after dinner when I want something a little indulgent but not too heavy. Here’s how you can make your own Banshee at home, with plenty of tips to make sure it turns out just right.
Banshee
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Chilled cocktail or martini glass
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) crème de banana
– 1 oz (30 ml) white crème de cacao
– 1 oz (30 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
– Ice (for shaking)
Method
- Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer while you prep the drink. This helps keep the cocktail cool and gives it a nice frosted edge.
- In a cocktail shaker, add a handful of ice.
- Pour in the crème de banana, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
- Shake everything vigorously for about 30 seconds-you want it cold and slightly frothy. If you’re using fresh cream, you’ll notice it starts to thicken a bit, which gives the drink a lovely texture.
- Strain into your chilled glass. Serve right away while it’s still nice and cold.
Tips for the Best Banshee
- Use chilled ingredients: Cold liqueurs and cream help keep the drink silky and refreshing.
- Don’t skip the shake: Shaking blends everything perfectly and adds a little froth on top.
- Try a garnish: A sprinkle of cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or a banana slice adds a nice touch.
Storage & Make-Ahead Notes
This cocktail is best made fresh, but if you’re prepping for a party, you can mix the liqueurs and cream ahead of time and keep the mixture chilled in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake with ice right before serving.
Substitutions & Variations
- Heavy cream: Swap for coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. It’ll have a slightly different texture but still taste great.
- Crème de banana: Can’t find it? Use banana syrup or mash a ripe banana and shake it with a bit of simple syrup and vodka for a homemade twist.
- Crème de cacao: Dark crème de cacao works if you want a deeper chocolate flavor. It’ll also give the drink a slightly darker color.
Banshee Variations
Banana Split Banshee
- Add 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream and a splash of cherry syrup.
- Blend everything until smooth and creamy. Serve in a chilled glass with a cherry on top.
Blue Banshee
- Replace crème de cacao with blue Curaçao.
- Shake with the other ingredients and serve in a martini glass for a fun, colorful drink.
Spiced Banshee
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg before shaking.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a cozy, warm finish.
Virgin Banshee (Non-Alcoholic)
- Use 1 oz banana syrup, 1 oz chocolate syrup, and 1 oz heavy cream.
- Shake with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Still sweet, creamy, and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails because the Banshee is such a treat to wind down with. It pairs beautifully with:
Chocolate Desserts
Think brownies, chocolate mousse, or even a simple chocolate chip cookie. The cocoa in the drink brings out all those rich flavors.
Fruit Tarts
The fresh fruit balances the creaminess of the drink. A berry or citrus tart works especially well.
Cheese Plate
Mild, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert complement the Banshee’s smooth texture and sweetness.
FAQ
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes! Banana syrup and chocolate syrup with cream make a great non-alcoholic version.
Is it heavy?
Surprisingly, no. It’s creamy but still light enough to enjoy after a meal without feeling weighed down.
Can I scale it up for a group?
Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and shake in batches. You can even blend it for a frozen version.
What’s the best time to serve it?
After dinner, as a dessert cocktail, or even during a cozy night in. It’s also a fun choice for brunch or small gatherings.
Can I use low-fat cream?
Sure! It won’t be quite as rich, but it’ll still be smooth and tasty.
How do I make it feel a little fancier?
Garnish goes a long way. Try a dusting of cocoa powder, chocolate drizzle, or a thin banana slice on the rim.
Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself or serving a round for friends, the Banshee is a simple, satisfying cocktail that always hits the right note. It’s sweet, creamy, and just indulgent enough to feel special-like a dessert you can sip.
