Features, Cooking Column, Homemade On The Heights

Campus Cocktails: The Chrissy

As a kid, we celebrated every special occasion—birthdays, anniversaries, even Christmas Eve—at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. When dinner was over and dessert was placed on the white tablecloth, I would stare at the adults in envy as they drank their “adult milkshakes,” also known as the Chrissy.

While Ruth’s Chris is a national chain, the location in Mobile, Ala., where I’m from, is the only one that serves the Chrissy as part of its everyday menu. It’s a fun play on a vanilla milkshake and something I always crave when I’m missing home.

Growing up, I viewed drinking a Chrissy as the adult way to indulge in a dessert. I don’t know what about a vanilla milkshake with vodka and hazelnut liqueur screamed “maturity” to me. But, now that I’m 21, I fully understand the hype around Chrissies.

This flavorful, creamy drink is often served at Mardi Gras, a holiday cherished in Mobile. Contrary to popular belief, Mobile is also the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the United States. It’s a celebration that seems like it lasts all year round—and you cannot let the season pass you by without having a Chrissy or two. If you’re looking for a fun spin on a classic milkshake, or if you’re like me, and you love a sweet treat after dinner, give the Chrissy a try.

DRINK: The Chrissy

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 oz. of Frangelico liqueur
  • 1 oz. of vodka
  • two scoops of vanilla ice cream

INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Add the Frangelico liqueur and vodka to a blender.
  2. Add ice cream and blend until the drink is creamy and smooth.
  3. Serve in a fun, festive glass.
October 1, 2023