How to Use a Drink Shaker

Cocktails are typically served cold, though many cocktail glasses cannot support ice cubes. Ice can also dull a drink by altering its color and flavor as it melts. A drink shaker chills a beverage without changing its intended experience.

• 1

  Add the ice to the shaker so that it begins chilling. A typical single serving requires five to six ice cubes.

• 2

  Measure the requisite liquors into the shaker using the shot glass. Most single serving recipes call for 4 to 6 oz., or less than a cup. A standard single shot glass holds 1 1/2 oz. of liquor.

• 3

  Secure both the lid and cap of the shaker. Then hold both ends of the shaker, which gives additional security to the lid and cap, and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. Shake longer for thicker liquors to ensure thorough mixing and chilling.

• 4

  Strain the chilled mixture into a glass and adorn with respective fruit, vegetables or other beverage-specific accoutrement.