A crisp, citrusy cocktail with a hint of herbal depth, the Flying Dutchman is the kind of drink that never goes out of style. It’s cool, refreshing, and packs just the right punch—perfect for summer evenings on the porch or cozy nights swapping stories with friends. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Let’s walk through how to make it at home, step by step.
Flying Dutchman
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
You’ll need:
– 60 ml (2 oz) gin – choose a dry gin for a clean, crisp flavor
– 30 ml (1 oz) triple sec – or any orange liqueur like Cointreau
– 15 ml (0.5 oz) fresh lemon juice – freshly squeezed makes a big difference
– 15 ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup – equal parts sugar and water, simmered and cooled
– Ice – for shaking
– Garnish – lemon twist or mint sprig
Equipment
– Cocktail shaker
– Strainer
– Chilled cocktail glass (or a highball glass if serving over ice)
Method
- Fill your cocktail shaker about halfway with ice.
- Pour in the gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold to the touch. This chills the drink and blends everything together.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. If you prefer it on the rocks, pour into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon or a sprig of mint. It adds a fresh aroma as you sip.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
– Chill your glass ahead of time—just pop it in the freezer for a few minutes.
– If you like your drinks a bit less sweet, you can cut the simple syrup down to 10 ml (2/3 tbsp).
– Want a smoother flavor? Swap the gin for vodka and you’ve got a softer version that still keeps the citrus zing.
Storage Notes
You can mix up a batch of the base (without ice) ahead of time. Just combine the gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and syrup in a pitcher and store it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is fantastic on its own, but it really shines when paired with:
Cheese Board
Go with aged cheeses like Gouda or sharp cheddar. Their richness plays nicely with the citrus and gin botanicals.
Grilled Shrimp or Scallops
The smoky, slightly sweet seafood is a perfect match for the lemony brightness of the drink.
Light Salads
Think arugula, cucumber, or fennel with a lemon vinaigrette. It keeps things fresh and lets the cocktail stand out.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work rituals—sipping a Flying Dutchman while cooking dinner. It’s light enough not to overpower your palate, but it’s got just enough kick to help you unwind.
Make It Your Own
Want to experiment? Here are a few easy twists:
- Switch the gin for vodka for a milder, cleaner taste.
- Use elderflower liqueur instead of triple sec to add floral notes.
- Adjust the sweetness by using honey syrup or agave instead of simple syrup.
Variations to Try
Dutch Harbor
– Equal parts gin, Green Chartreuse, and lime juice
– Shake with ice and serve over ice with a lime wheel
– It’s herbaceous and a little edgy
Ghostly Galleon
– Vodka, blue curaçao, and white cranberry juice
– Shake and strain into a martini glass
– A visually striking, slightly sweet variation
Mariner’s Mirage
– Gin, peach schnapps, and orange juice
– Shake and pour into a highball glass over ice
– Fruity and easy-drinking
Virgin Flying Dutchman
– Lemon juice, a splash of orange juice, a dash of simple syrup
– Top with soda water over ice
– Refreshing and alcohol-free
FAQs
Can I make it without triple sec?
Yes! Try using another orange liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier. Even a splash of fresh orange juice works in a pinch.
When’s the best time to serve it?
It’s great before dinner or as a happy hour sipper. Bright and refreshing, it’s also lovely for brunch.
Not a fan of lemon?
Try swapping the lemon juice for lime or even a rosemary syrup for an earthy twist.
How should I garnish it?
Keep it simple with a lemon twist or mint sprig. Or go fancy with an edible flower or sugar rim for a party-ready look.
Can I make a big batch for a group?
Definitely. Just multiply the ingredients by how many guests you’re serving. Mix everything in a large pitcher and chill until ready to shake and serve.
Final Sip
The Flying Dutchman is the kind of cocktail that feels classic but still a little adventurous. It’s easy to make, easy to tweak, and easy to love. Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself or making a batch for friends, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression—just like the name suggests.
