This creamy, cherry-kissed cocktail is a throwback with charm. The Cherry Flip is rich, smooth, and a little indulgent-with a frothy top and a soft hint of nutmeg. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or when you want something a little different from the usual cocktail lineup. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a little secret: the better the cherry brandy, the more luscious the flavor.
Cherry Flip
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Coupe or martini glass
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) cherry brandy
– 1 oz (30 ml) brandy
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 1 fresh egg yolk (use pasteurized eggs for safety)
– Pinch of ground nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
– Ice
Substitutions
– Swap cherry brandy with cherry liqueur for a sweeter drink
– Use honey or agave syrup instead of simple syrup
– For a vegan version, replace the egg yolk with 2 tbsp (30 ml) aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas)
Method
- Chill your glass: Pop a coupe or martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you make the drink.
- Dry shake the ingredients: In a cocktail shaker (or mason jar with a tight lid), combine cherry brandy, brandy, simple syrup, and the egg yolk. Shake hard for about 15 seconds without ice. This helps the egg yolk emulsify and gives the drink its signature creamy texture.
- Add ice and shake again: Toss in a handful of ice and shake again-this time until the shaker feels cold to the touch, about 15-20 seconds. You’re chilling the drink and building that frothy top.
- Strain and serve: Discard the ice from your glass if you used it for chilling. Strain the drink into the glass.
- Finish with nutmeg: Sprinkle a little nutmeg over the top. It adds a warm, spiced aroma that pairs beautifully with the cherry and brandy.
Tips for Success
– Use fresh, pasteurized eggs to keep things safe and creamy
– Shake really well-twice! That’s the trick to getting that silky, frothy finish
– Don’t skip the nutmeg-it’s more than just garnish; it adds depth
Make-Ahead Notes
You can pre-mix the spirits and syrup in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, add the egg yolk and shake fresh to keep the texture right. Don’t shake and store with the yolk-it won’t hold up.
Storage
This drink is best made fresh and doesn’t store well once mixed with the egg. If you have leftovers (unlikely!), drink them within an hour and keep them chilled.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is rich, so it pairs well with:
– A small cheese board (try blue cheese or sharp cheddar)
– Chocolate desserts like brownies or flourless cake
– Grilled meats-especially pork or steak, where the cherry and nutmeg contrast the savory notes
Variations to Try
Chocolate Cherry Flip
– Add ½ oz (15 ml) chocolate liqueur
– Shake it in with everything else for a deeper, dessert-like drink
Spiced Cherry Flip
– Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of clove
– Great for fall and winter sipping
Amaretto Cherry Flip
– Replace the brandy with amaretto
– You’ll get a nutty, almond-cherry twist that’s super cozy
Non-Alcoholic Cherry Flip
– Replace the alcohol with cherry juice and a splash of vanilla extract
– Use the same method with egg yolk or aquafaba for a creamy mocktail
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry brandy?
You can! Muddle a few pitted cherries and use cherry juice or preserves for extra flavor. Just keep in mind the sweetness and tartness may vary.
Is it safe to drink raw egg yolk?
Yes, if you use fresh, pasteurized eggs. That’s what I always go for when making flips or other egg-based cocktails.
What if I don’t have a cocktail shaker?
A mason jar with a tight-fitting lid works just fine. Just make sure to shake it vigorously.
How can I make it less sweet?
Cut the simple syrup down to ¼ oz (7 ml) or use a sugar-free alternative. You can always adjust to taste.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and make sure your shaker has enough room to handle the extra volume. Shake a bit longer to get everything properly mixed.
Final Thoughts
The Cherry Flip is one of those drinks that feels like a little celebration in a glass. Rich, creamy, and full of cherry flavor-it’s a classic that deserves a spot in your cocktail rotation. This has been my go-to cocktail for cozy nights in or when I want to impress guests with something unexpected. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to make it your own.
