Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Scotty Boxa

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 5 minutes
Ingredients Method 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.

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
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

French 75 Cocktail

Gin, lemon, sugar, topped with champagne. Named after a World War One field gun because the drink kicks like one.

Caipirinha Recipe (Brazil’s National Cocktail in Three Steps)

Brazil's national cocktail in three steps: cachaca, lime, sugar, ice. Sharp, refreshing, deceptively strong.

Classic Martini

Gin and dry vermouth, stirred with ice, strained into a chilled glass, finished with a lemon twist or olive. The cocktail that defines all other cocktails.

Tom Collins

Gin, lemon juice, sugar, soda water, served tall over ice. The original highball cocktail and the easiest gin drink to nail at home.

Jello Shots – Vodka Jello Shots in Oranges

Turn fresh orange halves into vibrant, edible cups for vodka jello shots. This easy recipe blends citrus flavor with a boozy kick, making it a colorful hit at parties, BBQs, and summer gatherings.

Panty Dropper Shot Recipe

Looking for a legendary party shot? This guide provides the ultimate recipe for the Panty Dropper, a sweet and fruity shot that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

JAPANESE SEX COCKTAIL

Sweet, fruity, and exotic the Japanese Sex Cocktail. It's as tropical as a beach getaway and smooth enough to rival your best late-night rendezvous.

The Midori Illusion Cocktail

Get the recipe for the Midori Illusion, a vibrant green cocktail that tastes like a tropical vacation. This guide provides the official recipe and tips for making this sweet, tangy, and fun party drink.

Colt 45 Cocktail Recipe

Get the recipe for the Colt 45 Cocktail, a cheeky mix of gin, Jager, and energy soda that kicks like its namesake. Bold, fizzy, and built for big nights.

More Bad Decisions From Behind the Bar

I’m Scotty Boxa. Australian author, professional bad decision maker, and the bloke responsible for the rest of this website.

If this recipe made you laugh, you’ll like the rest of what I do. I write books that are mostly true stories about cocktails, travel, and the disasters that come with both. If you want a starter pack, grab the free PDF below. No email required, just take it.