Black Magic

Black Magic is basically a Black Russian with a twist of lemon. Vodka and coffee liqueur are shaken with cracked ice, and a small splash of lemon juice brightens the rich, dark coffee flavor. It pours a deep, glossy brown that looks right at home on a Halloween bar.

That lemon is what makes it interesting. On its own, a Black Russian can taste heavy and sweet, but a little acidity lifts it and makes the coffee taste fresher and more like the real thing. It is a strong, simple, after-dinner kind of drink that takes about a minute to make.

Glass: Old fashioned glass | Strength: Strong | Serves: 1 | Prep Time: 2 minutes

Bartenders tip: Start with just a teaspoon of lemon juice and add more to taste, since it can overpower the coffee quickly. Pour the drink straight in with its cracked ice rather than straining. A lemon twist expressed over the top adds aroma without making it any sourer.