Silk Stockings
Silk Stockings: A Glamorous Dessert Cocktail
The Silk Stockings cocktail emerged in the 1950s, though its exact creator remains unknown. The drink was likely named after the 1957 MGM musical film Silk Stockings starring Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse, following the mid-century trend of naming cocktails after popular movies and entertainment, according to Difford's Guide.
The cocktail is essentially a tequila-based variation of the Alexander family of drinks, which combine spirits with crème de cacao and cream. The addition of grenadine distinguishes the Silk Stockings from a standard Alexander by adding pomegranate sweetness and a pale pink color, as noted in Liquor.com.
The Silk Stockings represents the 1950s American cocktail culture when creamy, dessert-style drinks appealed to mainstream tastes. The drink's elegant name and smooth texture made it popular in upscale bars and restaurants during the era.
The cocktail's popularity declined in the 1980s and 1990s as lighter, vodka-based drinks dominated. The Silk Stockings occasionally appears on contemporary menus as a retro choice or after-dinner drink, appreciated for its rich, indulgent character that works well as a liquid dessert.
RECIPE:
1.5 oz tequila (blanco)
1 oz white crème de cacao
1 oz heavy cream
1/4 oz grenadine
Cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
Method:
Add tequila, crème de cacao, cream, and grenadine to a shaker with ice.
Shake vigorously until well-chilled and frothy.
Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg.