Yellow Widow

Ingredients

• 2 clMalibu
• 1 pinchground cinnamon
• 2 clapple juice

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the liquids

   Pour equal amounts of Malibu and apple juice into a shot glass.

2. 2

   Add cinnamon

   Sprinkle the drink with cinnamon. It is ready to serve.

3. 3

   Serve plain

   No decoration is needed for this simple drink.

What is Yellow Widow?

This is a small, sweet mixed drink made with Malibu and apple juice, with cinnamon lending it an apple-strudel-like character. The recipe gives no specific place of origin, so it is best understood as a simple, internationally styled shot rather than a traditional regional drink.

Equal measures keep the preparation straightforward, while the cinnamon provides the finishing aroma.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 51 calories, 0g protein, 3g carbs, 0g fat.

The carbohydrates come mainly from the Malibu and apple juice, while the alcoholic spirit also contributes energy; this small serving provides very little protein or fat. For a more balanced occasion, pair it with a savoury snack or a meal that includes vegetables and a source of protein.

Choose the ingredients

Malibu: This coconut-flavoured spirit supplies the drink’s sweet, tropical note. Measure 2 cl so it stays balanced with the apple juice.

Apple juice: Use 2 cl of juice for the fruity half of the mix. A clear or cloudy juice will work; either way, choose one you enjoy drinking on its own.

Cinnamon: A single pinch is enough to add fragrance without overwhelming the small serving.

Mix it gently

Measure the Malibu and apple juice in equal amounts directly into the shot glass. The recipe does not call for shaking or stirring, so avoid adding extra steps that could alter the intended serve.

Sprinkle the cinnamon over the top just before serving, so it remains visible and aromatic.

Serve at the right moment

Prepare the drink immediately before serving; it takes about 3 minutes in total. The recipe does not specify a temperature, but chilling the ingredients beforehand can make the shot more refreshing without changing the method.

No garnish is needed, according to the recipe. Serve it in the shot glass as soon as the cinnamon is added.

What to serve alongside

Because this is a small, sweet drink, it can be served on its own as a brief after-dinner pour. If serving it with food, pair it with a modest portion of something crisp or lightly spiced rather than another very sweet item.

The recipe makes one serving, so there is no need to prepare a larger batch unless you scale every ingredient evenly.

Recipe notes & tips

• Measure both liquids carefully to keep the equal-parts balance.
• Use chilled ingredients if you prefer the drink cold.
• Add just a pinch of cinnamon, as the serving is very small.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon immediately before serving.
• Pour into the shot glass carefully to avoid spilling the small measures.

Variations

• Extra apple: Use a slightly larger share of apple juice for a fruitier, less coconut-forward taste.
• More cinnamon: Add a little extra cinnamon for a stronger spiced aroma.
• Cloudy juice: Choose cloudy apple juice for a less clear appearance.
• Chilled serve: Refrigerate the ingredients before mixing for a cooler shot.
• Cinnamon rim: Moisten the glass rim lightly and dip it in cinnamon for a more pronounced spice finish.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Unequal measures: Too much of either liquid changes the balance; measure 2 cl of each.
• Heavy cinnamon: A large amount can dominate the shot; start with one pinch.
• Adding cinnamon too early: It may settle before serving; sprinkle it on at the end.
• Overcomplicating the method: The recipe calls for a direct pour, so no shaker is needed.
• Making it ahead: The topping can lose its fresh aroma; mix and finish the drink just before serving.

How to store

This drink is best made and served immediately. If the ingredients have been mixed, keep the glass covered and refrigerated, then consume it the same day; add the cinnamon just before serving.

Frequently asked questions