The Java the Hutt cocktail is an homage to the iconic ‘Star Wars’ universe, blending the spicy, creamy flavors of horchata vodka with the rich depth of cold-brew coffee, sweetened by white crème de cacao and simple syrup, and smoothed out with half-and-half.
This drink is perfect for coffee lovers and those who crave a drink that’s both energizing and comforting.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the Java The Hutt cocktail, including a tip for making the perfect cinnamon sugar garnish.
Java The Hutt Cocktail Ingredients:
- Cutwater Fugu Horchata Vodka (1 1/2 ounces / 45 ml): Infuses the cocktail with a creamy, cinnamon-spiced base.
- Giffard White Crème de Cacao Liqueur (1/4 ounce / 7.5 ml): Adds a touch of chocolate sweetness.
- Cold-Brew Coffee (2 ounces / 60 ml): Provides a robust, smooth coffee flavor that’s less acidic than traditional brewed coffee.
- Half-and-Half (1/2 ounce / 15 ml): Offers richness and creaminess to the drink.
- Simple Syrup (1/2 ounce / 15 ml): Balances the cocktail with a hint of sweetness.
- Garnish: A pinch of cinnamon sugar for a sweet, spiced finish.
(Substitute your own labels for your own version. Sometimes close-enough is good-enough).
Java The Hutt Cocktail Recipe:
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Garnish:
- Mix equal parts of ground cinnamon and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Set aside for garnishing the cocktail. This blend will add a delightful aroma and a sweet, spiced edge to the finished drink.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine 45 ml (1 1/2 ounces) of Cutwater Fugu Horchata Vodka, 7.5 ml (1/4 ounce) of Giffard White Crème de Cacao Liqueur, 60 ml (2 ounces) of cold-brew coffee, 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of half-and-half, and 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of simple syrup.
- Dry-Shake:
- Secure the lid on the shaker and give it a vigorous dry shake (without ice) for about 5 seconds. This initial shake without ice helps to emulsify the half-and-half, creating a smoother texture.
- Shake with Ice:
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again, this time to chill the cocktail thoroughly.
- Continue shaking until the outside of the shaker feels cold, ensuring the drink reaches an optimal temperature.
- Strain and Serve:
- Strain the chilled mixture into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice. Using fresh ice in the glass ensures the drink remains cold without becoming diluted too quickly.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle a pinch of the prepared cinnamon sugar over the top of the cocktail. This garnish adds a visually appealing touch and enhances the drink’s flavor profile.
The Java The Hutt – In Detail
Cocktail creativity knows no bounds, drawing inspiration from a myriad of sources, including iconic tunes, theatrical masterpieces, and even the most epic space opera saga in American pop culture: Star Wars.
Jabba the Hutt, with his slithery, villainous demeanor and penchant for consuming live amphibian snacks, might not scream ‘mixology muse.’ Yet, Chris Cheng of Westroot Tavern in San Diego has bridged the unlikely gap.
Despite his aversion to puns, Cheng was captivated by the opportunity for a playful twist, thus giving birth to the Java the Hutt—a rich blend of horchata vodka and cold-brew coffee.
San Diego, the host city for the colossal fantasy celebration, San Diego Comic-Con, provides the perfect backdrop for Cheng’s creation. The cocktail features horchata-flavored vodka from local distillery Cutwater Fugu, nodding to the city’s vibrant Mexican food scene and the beloved traditional drink.
This particular vodka, with its unique profile, is ideally matched with robust cold-brew coffee, ensuring that after enjoying a Java the Hutt or two, you’ll find yourself zipping around with more energy than Jabba could ever muster.
The drink is further enhanced with half-and-half (with an option for a dairy-free alternative), simple syrup to sweeten the mix, and white creme de cacao for a hint of white chocolate latte essence, all crowned with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
While George Lucas has yet to comment on whether Jabba would indulge in a white chocolate horchata latte, alcoholic or not, this drink stands out as a delightful and creamy beverage, proving that inspiration can indeed come from the most unexpected places.
Check out more Star Wars cocktails.
