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

The three components of an Irish Breakfast Shot: a shot of whiskey and butterscotch, a shot of orange juice, and a strip of crispy bacon.
Irish Breakfast Shot

Get the recipe for the Irish Breakfast Shot, a legendary three-part shooter that perfectly recreates the flavor of a pancake breakfast, complete with a savory bacon chaser.

A colorful Fruit Tingle Cocktail in a tall glass, garnished with a maraschino cherry and a pineapple wedge.
Fruit Tingle Cocktail

Get the recipe for the Fruit Tingle, a fun and colorful cocktail that tastes just like the classic candies. This guide shows you how to make this sweet and fizzy party favorite.

A vibrant green Hand Grenade Cocktail in a tall glass with a red cherry garnish.
Hand Grenade Cocktail

Craving a taste of Bourbon Street? This guide delivers the best copycat recipe for the iconic Hand Grenade cocktail, New Orleans' most powerful drink. It's potent, fruity, and perfect for your next party.

Crispy Crunch Shot, a creamy mint-chocolate flavored cocktail in a shot glass
Crispy Crunch Shot Recipe

Craving a liquid candy bar? The Crispy Crunch Shot blends mint, creamy liqueur, and coffee/chocolate notes into a delicious shooter that tastes just like your favorite treat. Get the easy recipe for this must-try dessert drink!

Perfectly layered Wet Pussy Shot with cranberry, cream liqueur, and peach schnapps against a blurred background
Wet Pussy Shot

Learn how to make the perfect Wet Pussy Shot! Step-by-step layering tips, variations, and serving ideas. Sweet, creamy, and dangerously fun.

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.

A Jäger Bomb Shot with a shot glass of Jägermeister dropping into a larger glass of an energy drink, creating a splash.
Jager Bomb Shot

Get the recipe for the Jäger Bomb Shot, a legendary party starter that’s a high-energy mix of Jägermeister and an energy drink. This guide shows you how to make this iconic shot.

: A beautiful Wet Pussy Cocktail in a coupe glass, with a single fresh raspberry garnish.
Wet Pussy Cocktail

Master the art of the creamy Wet Pussy Cocktail. This guide provides the official recipe, expert tips, and all you need to know to make this delicious and sophisticated raspberry-flavored dessert drink at home.

A vibrant green Midori Illusion cocktail in a glass with a pineapple wedge and cherry garnish.
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.