A Stinger cocktail is a classic 2 ingredient cocktail, made with just a spirit and a liqueur. This is typically brandy or vodka and creme de menthe. I decided to add my own spin with this pistachio nutty Stinger cocktail, swapping in pistachio liqueur instead of mint (though it’s still green) for a sweet, nutty, and strong sip!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and smooth. The combination of brandy or vodka and pistachio liqueur creates a warm, velvety cocktail
- A fun twist on a classic. Swapping crème de menthe for pistachio gives the traditional stinger a completely new personality
- Nutty flavor without being too sweet. Pistachio adds depth and richness while keeping the drink balanced
- Perfect after-dinner cocktail. It has a cozy, dessert-like feel that’s great for sipping slowly
- Feels elevated and unique. Pistachio gives the cocktail a sophisticated flavor that stands out from more common drinks
- Easy to make. Just two ingredients come together for a cocktail that still feels impressive
- Great for colder weather. Warm, rich flavors make this especially good for fall and winter evenings!
- Pairs beautifully with desserts. Chocolate, biscotti, and creamy desserts all work perfectly alongside it
- Smooth, cozy vibes. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels equally at home at a dinner party or relaxing night in
Quick + Easy Recipes
straight to your inbox
Ingredients List
- 1 ounce pistachio cream liqueur
- 2 ounces vanilla vodka
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- The Stinger is super customizable, so instead of the pistachio liqueur you can use any liqueur you like (crème de cacao is another favorite of mine)! The possibilities are endless
- I like vanilla vodka with pistachio, but you can also use plain, whipped cream, or coffee flavored vodka for different twists. Feel free to substitute brandy here as well (though brandy is usually higher ABV, so you can go 50/50 instead with the liqueur if you like)
- My drink is garnished with a maraschino cherry and a pistachio, but you can adjust for the flavors you use. Citrus peels, or a dusting of spices (think cinnamon, cardamom, etc) are great choices as well!
Step By Step Instructions
- Add the vodka and the pistachio liqueur to a cocktail shaker (or similar) with a handful of ice
- Shake until well chilled and lightly frothy, about 15-20 seconds, then strain the mixture into a chilled martini or coupe glass, or a rocks glass over ice
- Garnishes are very optional. The classic creme de menthe version uses a fresh sprig of mint, but here I’d go with a pistachio or a maraschino cherry, but only if you want something. Enjoy!
Pairing Suggestions
Dessert Pairings
- Dark chocolate truffles: Rich chocolate pairs beautifully with pistachio flavors
- Tiramisu: Creamy coffee flavors complement the warm notes. Try my Tiramisu Mug Cake, perfect for 1-2 people!
- Pistachio cookies or biscotti: A natural match with the nutty liqueur
- Cheesecake: Smooth and creamy without overpowering the cocktail
- Bread pudding: Warm, comforting flavors work perfectly here
Snack Pairings
- Brie or camembert: Soft, buttery cheeses complement the cocktail’s richness
- Marcona almonds or pistachios: Salty nuts enhance the nutty flavor profile
- Charcuterie boards: Cured meats and aged cheeses create a cozy pairing
- Dark chocolate covered nuts: Sweet, salty, and rich all at once
Sweet Treats
- Shortbread cookies: Buttery and simple alongside the rich cocktail
- Vanilla bean desserts: Soft vanilla flavors pair beautifully with pistachio
- Cannoli: Creamy filling and crisp shells fit the dessert-cocktail vibe perfectly
- Baklava: Honey and nuts naturally complement the pistachio notes
When to Serve
Perfect for after-dinner sipping, holiday parties, cozy nights in, cocktail hours, or winter gatherings where you want something smooth, warm, and a little indulgent!
Recipe FAQs
What Is A Stinger Cocktail Made Of?
A traditional Stinger cocktail is made with brandy and white crème de menthe. It’s a simple two-ingredient cocktail known for its smooth texture and refreshing mint flavor.
This pistachio version puts a creative twist on the classic by using pistachio liqueur and vanilla vodka for a warmer, nuttier flavor profile.
Is A Stinger An After-Dinner Drink?
Yes! The Stinger is traditionally served as an after-dinner cocktail thanks to its smooth, slightly sweet flavor and digestif-style feel. Rich spirits and dessert-like notes make it especially popular for evening sipping.
What Does A Stinger Taste Like?
A classic Stinger tastes smooth, warming, and minty with subtle sweetness from the crème de menthe. This pistachio version is richer and nuttier, with creamy vanilla notes and a smooth dessert-cocktail feel that’s less mint-forward and more cozy and indulgent.
Tips For the Best Pistachio Nutty Stinger
- Don’t oversweeten. Pistachio liqueur and vanilla vodka already add richness, so balance is key. If you need to cut sweetness, use some cream or cold water
- This drink is strong as written since it’s just two ingredients – a liqueur and a liquor with no mixers. If you find it too strong for your palate, thin with a bit of cold water or heavy cream for a creamy texture
Serving Tips
- Serve well chilled. This cocktail tastes smoothest and most balanced when cold. Chill glasses in the fridge or freezer for 10-15 minutes to keep the drink cooler with less dilution
- Using a garnish is very optional for a Stinger. You could also add a rim of crushed pistachios for a little extra visual appeal and flavor!
- Use quality glassware. Since the cocktail is spirit-forward and simple, presentation makes a big difference!
- Pistachio Old Fashioned
- Pistachio Pudding Shots
Final Thoughts
This pistachio nutty Stinger is a fun riff on the classic Stinger cocktail that’s sure to make your taste buds sing! The warm, nutty flavor of pistachio cream liqueur pairs beautifully with vanilla vodka, for a dessert-like cocktail that’s strong, smooth, and super sippable too.
Of course, you can customize your cocktail experience tremendously, since the Stinger is simply a liqueur with a base spirit; the traditional recipe being creme de menthe and brandy. So, swap up your base, try different liqueurs, and find the perfect blend for any taste or season!
Loving my nutty twist on this drink? Check out all of my Pistachio Cocktails for more inspiration!
Pistachio Nutty Stinger Cocktail
Equipment
- Shaker (or similar)
- Rocks glass (or martini glass)
Ingredients
- 1 ounce pistachio cream liqueur
- 2 ounces vanilla vodka
- Ice
Instructions
- Add the vodka and the pistachio liqueur to a cocktail shaker (or similar) with a handful of ice1 ounce pistachio cream liqueur, 2 ounces vanilla vodka, Ice
- Shake until well chilled and lightly frothy, about 15-20 seconds, then strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass, or a rocks glass over crushed ice
- Garnishes are very optional. The classic creme de menthe version uses a fresh sprig of mint, but here I’d go with a pistachio or a maraschino cherry if you want something. Enjoy!
Notes
- The Stinger is highly customizable, so instead of the pistachio liqueur you can use any liqueur you like!
- I like vanilla vodka with pistachio, but you can also use plain, whipped cream, or coffee flavored vodka for different twists. Feel free to substitute the more traditional brandy here as well (though brandy is usually higher ABV, so you can go 50/50 instead with the liqueur if you like)
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any garnishes added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
