Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
A perfectly layered ABC Shot in a glass, with distinct green, white, and yellow layers.

ABC Shot Recipe

5 from 1 vote
The ABC Shot is a potent and fiery shooter that combines the intense flavors of absinthe, white rum, and yellow Chartreuse. Known for its strong kick and memorable burn, this shot is perfect for those who enjoy bold and adventurous drinks. Here’s how to make this powerful shot.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
 

  • 0.33 oz Absinthe Herbal Liqueur
  • 0.33 oz White Rum
  • 0.5 oz Yellow Chartreuse

Instructions
 

Prepare the Shot Glass:
  1. Add 0.33 oz of absinthe herbal liqueur to a shot glass. Absinthe provides a strong, herbal flavor that forms the base of the shot.
Add White Rum:
  1. Pour 0.33 oz of white rum into the shot glass. The rum adds a smooth and potent element to the drink.
Add Yellow Chartreuse:
  1. Top with 0.5 oz of yellow Chartreuse. This liqueur adds a complex mix of flavors and a bit of sweetness to balance the intensity.
Serve and Enjoy:
  1. Serve immediately and enjoy your ABC Shot. Be prepared for a strong kick and a memorable burn that lingers.

Nutrition

Calories: 102kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 0.01gFat: 0.03gSaturated Fat: 0.01gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 1mgPotassium: 3mgSugar: 8gCalcium: 0.1mgIron: 0.01mg

Notes

The Secret Behind the Acronym ABC is a perfect acronym, because it literally spells out the ingredients: Absinthe, Bacardi (or other White Rum), and Chartreuse. This shot became popular for its easy-to-remember name and its reputation for delivering a memorable kick. It's a shot that's as simple to order as it is powerful to drink.
Tips for a Perfect Layered Look
  • Chill Your Ingredients: Chilling the bottles beforehand makes the liquors slightly thicker and easier to layer.
  • The Back of the Spoon Method: This is the most crucial step. Hold a bar spoon upside down just above the surface of the liquid and pour the next ingredient over it very slowly. This breaks the flow and allows the lighter liquid to rest on top of the heavier one.
  • Master the Layers: Practice makes perfect! Don't worry if your first attempt isn't perfectly layered. The shot will still taste fantastic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Is there another version of the ABC Shot? Yes! A different, more creamy version of the ABC shot stands for Amaretto, Baileys, and Cognac. It has a sweet, nutty, and creamy flavor profile, while this version is known for being more herbal and fiery.
  • Why is it so strong? Absinthe, White Rum, and Chartreuse are all high-proof spirits, making this shot one of the most potent you can order. It's an intense experience designed for seasoned drinkers.
  • What does it taste like? The shot is a powerful combination of herbal, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. You'll get the intense anise from the absinthe, the strong kick of the rum, and the complex botanical notes of the chartreuse.
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Beverage, Cocktails, Drinks
Cuisine: Beverage, Cocktail, Drinks
Calories: 102

Loved This Recipe?

You'll love my Recipe Books!
Cheers Mate! Cocktail Recipes book cover by Scotty Boxa, featuring a shaker and glass
Grab it here

Cheers Mate!
Your ultimate cocktail playbook. Over 100 drinks that’ll make you the life of the party (or at least your own kitchen).

weets & Treats Dessert Recipes book cover by Scotty Boxa, featuring cupcakes and ice cream
Snag it now

Sweets & Treats
Boozy desserts + classic indulgence = pure chaos in the best way. No-bake cheats, rich bakes, and grown-up sweets you won’t want to share.

You Might also like these Recipes

Black Opal Cocktail – vibrant blue-black drink in a glass with orange garnish and fresh blackberries, elegant and bold party cocktail.
Black Opal Cocktail

Mix the elegant Black Opal Cocktail with our easy, step-by-step recipe! Featuring black vodka and Chambord, this striking dark drink is perfect for impressing guests. Get the full guide!

A Mexican Bulldog Cocktail in a large glass with a frozen margarita and an inverted bottle of beer.
Mexican Bulldog Cocktail

Get the recipe for the Mexican Bulldog, a legendary cocktail that's a brilliant mashup of a frozen margarita and a Mexican beer. This is one part fun, two parts delicious, and perfect for your next fiesta.

A Jolly Rancher Cocktail in a glass, with a vibrant color and a Jolly Rancher candy garnish.
Jolly Rancher Cocktail

Get the recipe for the Jolly Rancher Cocktail, a vibrant and fruity drink that tastes just like the classic candy. This guide shows you how to make this delicious, retro party favorite.

A vibrant blue-green Bullfrog Cocktail in a tall glass with a lemon wheel and cherry garnish.
Bullfrog Cocktail

Dive into the Bullfrog Cocktail! This guide provides the official recipe for the ultimate high-energy party drink, a potent blend of multiple liquors that’s both delicious and vibrant.

A layered Jam Donut Shot in a glass, with a red base and a creamy white top layer, and a sugar-coated rim.
Jam Donut Shot

Get the recipe for the Jam Donut Shot, a layered and delicious shooter that tastes exactly like a raspberry jam donut. This guide shows you how to make this popular dessert shot.

A clear Silver Bullet Shot in a glass, with a lemon twist garnish on the rim.
Silver Bullet Shot

Master the art of the Silver Bullet Shot. This guide provides the official recipe for this sharp and sophisticated drink, a potent blend of gin and Scotch whiskey with a zesty citrus finish.

A Kamikaze Shot in a glass with a lime wedge garnish
Kamikaze Shot

Get the recipe for the Kamikaze Shot, a classic and potent shooter that's a perfect blend of vodka, orange liqueur, and fresh lime juice. This guide shows you how to make this zesty party favorite.

A Blue Long Island Iced Tea in a tall glass with a lemon slice and a cherry garnish.
Blue Long Island Iced Tea

Get the recipe for the Blue Long Island Iced Tea, a vibrant blue cocktail that’s a powerful and fruity twist on the classic. This guide shows you how to make this legendary party drink.

Layered Burt Reynolds Shot with a dark rum base and a golden butterscotch top layer.
Burt Reynolds Shot

Channel your inner Hollywood legend with the Burt Reynolds Shot! This smooth mix of spiced rum and butterscotch schnapps is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.