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This Frozen Mudslide cocktail brings together creamy vanilla ice cream with rich chocolate and a smooth blend of vodka, Irish cream, and Kahlúa. It makes for an indulgent dessert treat that feels like a party in a glass and is perfect for winding down after dinner.
I first made this during a summer gathering and now everyone requests it for celebrations or a special weekend treat
Ingredients
- Chocolate sauce: four tablespoons divided so some goes into the glass for decoration and the rest for blending using a high-quality brand like Ghirardelli really makes a difference
- Vodka: two shots to add the neutral spirit base, a clean vodka is best to let the other flavors shine through
- Irish cream: two shots for creamy texture and rich, boozy flavor, Bailey’s or Five Farms are excellent choices
- Kahlúa: one shot to bring coffee notes which balance the sweetness nicely
- Ice: two cups to create that frozen cocktail texture without watering it down too quickly
- Vanilla ice cream: six scoops to deliver creaminess and complement the chocolate and coffee flavors perfectly
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Syrup Decoration:
- Pour one tablespoon chocolate syrup into the base of each glass. Use a drink frother or a small whisk to swirl the syrup up the sides of the glass creating chocolate lines spaced about an inch apart. Place the glasses in the freezer so the syrup sets while you prepare the cocktail.
- Blend the Ingredients:
- Into a blender add the remaining three tablespoons chocolate syrup, vodka, Irish cream, Kahlúa, two cups of ice, and six scoops of vanilla ice cream. Blend on high speed until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy without ice chunks remaining.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Pour the blended mudslide evenly into the prepared glasses. Top with freshly whipped cream, a cherry, and some chocolate shavings if you have them on hand. Serve immediately before it melts.
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I love the way the chocolate syrup swirled inside the glass adds a fun visual element but also intensifies that chocolate flavor as you sip. One summer, this was the star drink at a family barbecue and still brings back great memories every time I make it.
Storage tips
This cocktail is best enjoyed right away for the frosty texture. If you have leftovers they can be stored in the freezer in an airtight container for a couple of hours but will lose some creaminess and may become icy.
Ingredient substitutions
You can swap the vodka for rum for a slightly sweeter note or use coffee liqueur alternatives if you can’t find Kahlúa. Dairy-free ice cream options work well too for a lactose-free version.
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Serving suggestions
Serve this cocktail with simple chocolate cookies or biscotti to enhance the dessert experience. A splash of espresso on the side pairs well for coffee lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What ingredients give the cocktail its creamy texture?
Vanilla ice cream and Irish cream provide the smooth, creamy base that balances the stronger flavors in this frozen drink.
- → How do I create the chocolate lines inside the glass?
Use a frother dipped in chocolate sauce, pulsing it while moving upward to create evenly spaced chocolate lines along the glass interior.
- → Can I make the drink stronger or lighter in alcohol?
Adjust the amount of vodka, Kahlúa, and Irish cream according to preference. A heavier pour intensifies the cocktail, while less keeps it smoother.
- → What is the best way to serve this frozen drink without it melting too fast?
Prepare ingredients ahead and chill the glasses in the freezer during prep. Serve immediately after blending to maintain the perfect frozen texture.
- → Are there alternatives to the Irish cream used here?
Yes, different Irish cream brands like Five Farms work well, offering similar creamy, slightly sweet flavors for the drink.