The Golden Fizz is one of those cocktails that feels like sunshine in a glass. It’s creamy, citrusy, and just fizzy enough to make every sip feel like a celebration. A twist on the classic Gin Fizz, this version gets its signature golden hue and silky texture from a single egg yolk. I’ve made this drink countless times—especially for weekend brunches—and I’ve picked up a few tricks that make it even better every time.
Golden Fizz
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Equipment: Cocktail shaker, jigger or measuring spoon, fine strainer, and a glass (champagne flute or highball)
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp (5 ml) simple syrup (or honey/agave as a natural sweetener)
– 1 egg yolk (about 20 ml)
– A splash of club soda (to top)
– Ice (for shaking)
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and the egg yolk.
- Fill the shaker with ice, then shake hard for about 15–20 seconds—until the shaker feels ice-cold. This helps chill everything and gives you that nice foamy texture.
- Strain into a chilled champagne flute or highball glass.
- Top with a splash of club soda and serve right away.
Tips for Success
– Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
– Separate the egg yolk carefully—any bits of white can mess with the texture.
– Shake until you hear the ice breaking up and feel the shaker getting frosty. That’s your cue.
– For a smoother drink, strain through a fine mesh sieve to catch any eggy bits.
Make-Ahead Note
You can mix the gin, lemon juice, syrup, and egg yolk ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Just give it a fresh shake with ice and top with soda when you’re ready to serve.
Storage
This cocktail is best made fresh. Once the soda is added, it starts to lose its fizz within minutes. Avoid storing leftovers.
Ingredient Swaps
– No gin? Use vodka for a more neutral flavor.
– Want it richer? Try brown sugar syrup instead of simple syrup.
– Can’t do egg? Skip the yolk or swap in aquafaba (chickpea water) for a frothy texture without the egg.
What It Tastes Like
You’ll get a pop of lemon right away, followed by a mellow sweetness and the velvety mouthfeel from the egg yolk. The gin adds a subtle herbal note in the background, and the bubbles from the soda give it a lively finish. It’s the kind of drink that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
Food Pairings
This drink shines at brunch or light afternoon meals.
Perfect With:
– Eggs Benedict or smoked salmon toast
– Spinach and feta quiche
– Grilled shrimp or scallops
– A fresh citrusy salad with vinaigrette
I often serve this with a herby goat cheese tart—something about the creamy cocktail and tangy cheese just works.
Fun Facts
– The Golden Fizz dates back to the late 1800s and was a brunch favorite among high society.
– It’s part of the “Fizz” family—cocktails known for their bubbly tops and refreshing vibe.
– Bartenders used to shake these so vigorously, they’d pass the shaker back and forth to get the perfect froth.
Variations to Try
Silver Fizz
– Swap the egg yolk for egg white for a lighter texture and a frothy top.
Rosemary Golden Fizz
– Muddle a sprig of fresh rosemary with the syrup before shaking for an herbal twist.
Autumn Spice Fizz
– Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to bring cozy warmth to the drink.
Virgin Golden Fizz
– Leave out the alcohol. Mix lemon juice, syrup, and egg yolk, shake with ice, and top with soda. It’s just as creamy and refreshing—great for anyone skipping the booze.
Questions & Answers
Is it safe to use raw egg yolk?
Yes—just use fresh, high-quality eggs, and if you’re unsure, go for pasteurized ones.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prep the base (everything except soda) up to 2 hours in advance. Shake with ice and add soda just before serving.
How long should I shake it?
Shake for at least 15 seconds—until your shaker feels icy cold and you hear that solid *clink* of broken-up ice.
What’s the best gin to use?
London Dry Gin is a great go-to, but feel free to play around with more floral or citrus-forward gins depending on your taste.
How do I make it healthier?
Use a natural sweetener like honey or agave, and limit the amount. You can also reduce the gin to 1½ oz (45 ml) for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is lovely as a pre-brunch drink or a light afternoon refresher. Serve with a slice of lemon on the rim or even a twist of lemon peel if you’re feeling fancy. It’s also a great conversation starter if you’re having friends over—most people haven’t tried a cocktail with egg yolk!
Whether you’re new to making cocktails or already have a shaker at home, the Golden Fizz is a fun, elegant drink that’s surprisingly easy to pull off. This has been my go-to cocktail for summer brunches and lazy weekends—it always gets a “Wow, what’s this?” from guests. Try it once, and it might just become one of your favorites too.
