We’ve always been captivated by the Bourbon Flip, a timeless cocktail that originated in 19th-century America and blends smooth bourbon with egg and sugar for a creamy delight. It’s a versatile drink that adds a touch of elegance to any occasion whether you’re hosting friends or unwinding solo.
In our recipe we’ll guide you through creating this classic with simple ingredients and minimal effort ensuring it’s as enjoyable to make as it is to sip. Let’s elevate your cocktail game with this bourbon favorite.
Ingredients
In our exploration of the classic Bourbon Flip, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients to craft this creamy, elegant cocktail. Let’s list them out in the order we use them, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for a seamless mixing process.
- 2 ounces bourbon: We start with this bold, aged whiskey as the base spirit—opt for a high-quality brand like Buffalo Trace for its rich vanilla and oak notes.
- 1 whole egg: Next, we incorporate a fresh, room-temperature egg for that signature velvety texture—ensure it’s pasteurized if you’re concerned about raw egg safety.
- ½ ounce simple syrup: We add this sweet element right after, made from equal parts sugar and water, to balance the bourbon’s warmth with a smooth sweetness.
- 3 dashes Angostura bitters: Followed by these aromatic bitters, which we use to introduce subtle spice and depth—shake the bottle well before adding.
- Ice cubes: We prepare these for chilling and shaking, using about a cup’s worth to ensure the mixture emulsifies properly without dilution.
- Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish): Finally, we grate this just before serving to add a fragrant, nutty finish—use a microplane for the finest results.
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve outlined the fresh ingredients for our Bourbon Flip, we need the right tools to blend them into a smooth, creamy cocktail that highlights its rich flavors and textures.
Essential Tools
To craft our Bourbon Flip with precision and ease, here are the Essential Tools we’ll rely on. Each item plays a key role in achieving the cocktail’s signature froth and balance.
- Cocktail Shaker: This is our go-to for vigorously shaking the bourbon, egg, and other ingredients to create a velvety foam—aim for a Boston or cobbler shaker for optimal results.
- Jigger or Measuring Cup: We use this precise measuring tool to ensure accurate pours, like the 2 ounces of bourbon and ½ ounce of simple syrup, preventing any imbalance in flavors.
- Hawthorne Strainer: Essential for straining out ice and any solids after shaking, it keeps our drink smooth and elegant in the glass.
- Coupe or Rocks Glass: We recommend a chilled coupe glass for serving, as it enhances the cocktail’s presentation and allows the aromas of the bitters and nutmeg to shine.
- Microplane or Grater: This tool lets us freshly grate nutmeg over the top, adding a fragrant, nutty garnish that elevates the sensory experience of our Bourbon Flip.
| Tool | Quantity Needed | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cocktail Shaker | 1 | Mixing and aerating ingredients |
| Jigger or Measuring Cup | 1 | Accurate measurement of liquids |
| Hawthorne Strainer | 1 | Straining the final mixture |
| Coupe or Rocks Glass | 1 per serving | Serving and enhancing presentation |
| Microplane or Grater | 1 | Garnishing with fresh nutmeg |
Instructions
We guide you through crafting the perfect Bourbon Flip, building on our selected ingredients and tools for a seamless, professional result. Let’s transform these simple components into a velvety, indulgent cocktail that delights the palate.
Prepare Ingredients
First, we gather and prep our key elements to ensure freshness and balance in every sip. Start by measuring 2 ounces of bourbon—opt for a smooth brand like Buffalo Trace for its rich, caramel notes that form the cocktail’s robust base.
Next, crack 1 whole egg into a small bowl, ensuring it’s fresh for that creamy, luxurious texture that defines the flip’s signature froth.
Measure out ½ ounce of simple syrup to add just the right sweetness, balancing the bourbon’s warmth.
Add 3 dashes of Angostura bitters for a spicy, aromatic depth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Prepare ice cubes for chilling—about 4 to 6 cubes will suffice to cool the mixture without diluting it too quickly.
Finally, ready your freshly grated nutmeg for garnish, using a microplane to grate a pinch, releasing its warm, nutty aroma that hints at the cocktail’s comforting finish.
Mix the Cocktail
We combine the ingredients in our cocktail shaker to create a frothy masterpiece. Add the 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 whole egg, ½ ounce of simple syrup, and 3 dashes of Angostura bitters into the shaker for a harmonious blend.
Fill the shaker with ice cubes to chill the mixture, then seal it tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds—the sound of ice clinking and the shaker frosting over signals a well-emulsified, creamy texture that promises a silky mouthfeel.
This step is crucial as it incorporates air, resulting in the flip’s velvety foam that coats the tongue with layers of bourbon’s oakiness, egg’s richness, and bitters’ spicy intrigue.
Serve and Garnish
Once mixed, we strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass using a Hawthorne strainer for a smooth, ice-free pour that preserves the drink’s elegant presentation.
Garnish with a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg on top, its fragrant, earthy scent enhancing the visual appeal and adding a subtle spice that complements the bourbon’s warmth on the first sip.
Serve immediately to enjoy the cocktail at its peak—its creamy texture and balanced flavors create a sophisticated, satisfying experience that showcases the flip’s timeless allure.
Conclusion
We’ve explored the Bourbon Flip’s charm and shown how it’s a simple yet sophisticated addition to your cocktail collection. It’s a drink that elevates any moment with its creamy texture and balanced flavors.
As we wrap up, let’s raise a glass to the joy of crafting classics at home—it’s rewarding and endlessly adaptable to your tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Bourbon Flip?
A Bourbon Flip is a classic 19th-century American cocktail that blends bourbon, egg, and sugar for a creamy, elegant drink. It’s versatile, perfect for various occasions, and offers a sophisticated twist on traditional cocktails, enhancing your mixology skills with its simple yet timeless appeal.
What ingredients are needed for a Bourbon Flip?
You’ll need 2 ounces of bourbon (like Buffalo Trace), 1 whole egg for creaminess, ½ ounce of simple syrup for sweetness, 3 dashes of Angostura bitters for depth, ice cubes for chilling, and freshly grated nutmeg for garnish. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures a balanced, flavorful result.
What equipment is required to make a Bourbon Flip?
Essential tools include a cocktail shaker for mixing, a jigger or measuring cup for accuracy, a Hawthorne strainer for a smooth pour, a chilled coupe or rocks glass for serving, and a microplane or grater for nutmeg. These items help achieve the cocktail’s frothy texture and professional presentation.
How do you make a Bourbon Flip?
Start by measuring 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 egg, ½ ounce simple syrup, and 3 dashes of bitters into a shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to create froth. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with grated nutmeg. This simple process yields a creamy, balanced cocktail in minutes.
Can I substitute ingredients in a Bourbon Flip?
Yes, you can swap bourbons for other whiskeys, but stick to high-quality options for best flavor. Use a vegan alternative like aquafaba instead of egg for a similar texture. Adjust simple syrup with honey if preferred, but keep bitters consistent to maintain the drink’s depth—experiment carefully to preserve balance.
Is a Bourbon Flip suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, it’s beginner-friendly with just a few ingredients and simple steps. As long as you have basic tools like a shaker, measuring the components and shaking with ice is straightforward. Follow the recipe closely for a great result, helping new mixologists build confidence in crafting elegant cocktails.