Ingredients
- 1/3 oz Almond Liqueur
- 1/3 oz Irish Cream
- 1/3 oz Melon Liqueur
Instructions
Shake and strain:
- Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well.
Serve:
- Strain into a shot glass and serve immediately.
Notes
Estimated Nutrition:
Where it came from
The Money Shot likely emerged from the high-energy, low-light environments of college town bars or late-night clubs in the late 20th century. It belongs to a class of brightly colored, easy-drinking shots crafted for volume and a quick buzz, rather than complex flavor profiles or artisanal ingredients. Its exact origins are hazy, as is often the case with popular, unpretentious bar staples.
This drink is a relative of other simple, fruit-forward shooters like the Kamikaze or the Lemon Drop, prioritizing a sweet and sour punch over botanical complexity. What sets the Money Shot apart is its specific blend of vodka and peach schnapps, giving it a distinct, almost candy-like appeal that masks its potent alcohol content. It's a party starter, not a sophisticated aperitif.
You would typically order a Money Shot when the night is already in full swing, or when you need to kick things into gear. It's a reliable choice in a bustling bar where speed is key, or at a house party where the goal is straightforward enjoyment. Don't expect to find it on a craft cocktail menu, but it's a staple in any establishment focused on fun and efficiency.
What it tastes like
The Money Shot hits with a primary note of sweet, ripe peach, quickly followed by the clean, neutral burn of vodka. The cranberry juice adds a necessary tart counterpoint, preventing the drink from becoming overly cloying and providing a crisp finish. It’s a straightforward flavor profile: sweet, strong, and just a touch fruity, designed to be palatable for a wide audience.
At approximately 29.4% alcohol by volume, a single Money Shot packs a serious punch. To put that in perspective, this 1.75 ounce shot contains roughly six times the alcohol of a standard 12 ounce light beer, which typically hovers around 4-5% ABV. Treat it with respect, as its smooth, sweet nature can easily mask its true strength.
The technique
To build a Money Shot, combine 1 ounce of vodka, 0.5 ounce of peach schnapps, and 0.25 ounce of cranberry juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 10 to 15 seconds until the mixture is thoroughly chilled. Strain the contents directly into a chilled shot glass. Serve immediately for optimal coldness and impact.
The one technique tip that matters most for this drink is a proper, hard shake. You need to ensure every component is ice cold and well integrated. A lukewarm or under-shaken Money Shot loses its crisp edge and the sweetness can become overpowering. Go for a full, energetic shake; it makes all the difference.
Ingredient Spotlight
The bottles that make or break this drink.
Vodka
- Use
- A good quality, neutral vodka. Smirnoff, Absolut, or Tito's work perfectly here. You don't need top shelf, but avoid anything harsh.
- Skip
- Flavored vodkas will clash with the peach. Anything with a strong character will fight the schnapps.
- Why
- It provides the clean alcohol base without adding competing flavors, allowing the peach to shine. It's the engine of the shot.
Peach Schnapps
- Use
- A reputable brand like DeKuyper or Bols. Consistency in flavor is key for this ingredient.
- Skip
- Off-brand, overly syrupy schnapps can make the drink taste artificial and cloying. Avoid anything that smells overly sweet.
- Why
- This liqueur delivers the essential sweet peach flavor that defines the Money Shot. It's the primary flavor driver.
Three Variations
Three real ways bartenders riff on this drink.
Dirty Money
- A darker, more complex shot.
- Swap the cranberry juice for a splash of Chambord or another berry liqueur to add depth and a richer color.
Money Drop
- A tart twist on the original.
- Add a small squeeze of fresh lime juice to the shaker to brighten the flavor and enhance the tartness.
Long Shot
- Turn it into a refreshing highball.
- Scale up the ingredients and serve over ice in a highball glass, topped with a splash of soda water or lemon-lime soda.
What if I don't have…
Quick substitutions for when the bottle shop is closed.
Use white rum or even a clean gin if you're feeling adventurous, though the profile will shift.
Apricot brandy or a similar stone fruit liqueur can work in a pinch, but the peach flavor will be missed.
A splash of grenadine will give color and sweetness, but lacks the tartness. Cherry juice could also work.
Any small, sturdy glass will do. A cordial glass or even a small espresso cup can serve the purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to what people search for after Googling this drink.
What is in a Money Shot?
A Money Shot typically contains vodka, peach schnapps, and a splash of cranberry juice.
Is the Money Shot strong?
Yes, it's a potent shot. At around 29% ABV, it's significantly stronger than most beers.
What does a Money Shot taste like?
It tastes sweet and fruity from the peach, with a tart finish from the cranberry, all underpinned by the clean kick of vodka.
Is the Money Shot a popular drink?
It's a popular choice in many bars, especially those catering to a younger crowd or a party atmosphere.
Can I make a Money Shot a different color?
Yes, using a different fruit juice or liqueur can change its color. For example, blue curaçao for a blue shot.
What's a good occasion for a Money Shot?
It's best suited for parties, celebrations, or when you need a quick, direct drink to get the night going.
Can I make a batch of Money Shots?
Absolutely. Just scale up the ingredients and keep the mixture well chilled until serving.
What other shots are similar to a Money Shot?
Shots like the Kamikaze, Sex on the Beach Shot, or a Woo Woo share a similar sweet and fruity, vodka-based profile.
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