Can I use milk instead of cream?

Absolutely! Milk will make the Smith & Kearns a bit lighter and less rich, but it’s still delicious. Try it with whole milk for a good balance of creaminess and lightness.

Is the Smith & Kearns very sweet?

It’s pleasantly sweet but not overpowering thanks to the balance between the liqueurs, cream, and the fizz from the club soda. If you prefer a less sweet drink, try using less crème de cacao or opt for a higher ratio of club soda.

What’s the difference between a Smith & Kearns and a Smith & Wesson?

The Smith & Wesson is very similar to the Smith & Kearns, but it includes a splash of vodka, making it a bit stronger and less creamy.

Can I make it non-alcoholic?

Yes! Substitute coffee and chocolate syrups for the liqueurs, then follow the same steps. You'll have a delicious, family-friendly mocktail.

Smith & Kearns

Name: Smith & Kearns
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 1.5 oz Coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa); 1.5 oz Crème de cacao (dark or light); 2 oz Heavy cream; 2 oz Club soda; 1 cup Ice

The Smith & Kearns is a creamy, effervescent cocktail that perfectly blends chocolate liqueur, coffee liqueur, and a splash of fizz for a smooth, indulgent treat. It's a classic that's easy to love, offering a dessert-like experience without being overly sweet. Whether you're winding down after dinner or looking for a nostalgic favorite, the Smith & Kearns always delivers.

3 minutesEasy1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
45 ml (1.5 oz)
Adds depth and coffee notes
Crème de cacao (dark or light)
45 ml (1.5 oz)
Brings chocolatey richness
Heavy cream
60 ml (2 oz)
For creamy texture—milk can be used for a lighter option
Club soda
60 ml (2 oz)
Adds effervescence
Ice
1 cup
For serving

Tools Needed

Highball glass
Bar spoon
Jigger
Ice scoop

Instructions

Fill a highball glass with ice to chill it.
Pour 1.5 oz coffee liqueur and 1.5 oz crème de cacao over the ice.
Add 2 oz heavy cream to the glass.
Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine the liqueurs and cream.
Top with 2 oz of club soda, pouring gently to maintain the fizz.
Give a final gentle stir to incorporate the soda without losing carbonation.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

Creamy and smooth with a delightful chocolate-coffee flavor.
Easy to make with simple ingredients found in most home bars.
Lightly carbonated for a refreshing twist on dessert cocktails.
Perfect for those who enjoy sweet, mellow drinks without strong spirits.
A nostalgic classic with a fun backstory.

History & Origin

The Smith & Kearns was reportedly invented in 1952 by a bartender named Gerbert ‘Popo’ Tennyson at the Blue Blazer bar in Wilbur, North Dakota. The drink was named after two regular customers—Smith and Curran—but thanks to a slight mispronunciation, 'Curran' became 'Kearns.' Unlike many classic cocktails, the Smith & Kearns skips the usual spirits for a delicious mix of coffee liqueur, cream, and soda water, making it a unique and refreshing departure from the norm.

Garnish

No garnish is traditional, but a dusting of grated chocolate or a few coffee beans can enhance the aroma and visual appeal.

Nutrition Info

Approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the cream and liqueurs used. Contains dairy, caffeine, and alcohol.

Frequently Asked Questions

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