There’s something downright joyful about sipping an Orange Flip. It’s creamy, bright, and just the right amount of sweet—like a grown-up creamsicle in a glass. This cocktail’s been around for over a hundred years, and with good reason. It’s comforting, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails—perfect for when you want something indulgent but citrusy-clean at the same time.
Orange Flip
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Glass: Cocktail or coupe glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) brandy
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
– 1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh orange juice
– 1 whole egg (about 50 g)
– Freshly grated nutmeg or an orange peel, for garnish
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, pour in the brandy, orange liqueur, simple syrup, and fresh orange juice.
- Crack in the whole egg. (Yes, the whole thing! It’s what gives the drink its velvety texture.)
- Seal the shaker and shake hard for about 15 seconds—this is your dry shake, meaning no ice yet. It helps the egg mix thoroughly and gives you that creamy foam on top.
- Add a handful of ice and shake again for another 15–20 seconds until the shaker feels nice and cold.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail or coupe glass.
- Finish with a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg or a twist of orange peel on top.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh orange juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same zing. Fresh juice makes the whole drink pop.
– Dry shaking is key. Skipping this step can leave you with a flat texture instead of that lovely froth.
– Worried about raw egg? Go for a pasteurized egg or a carton of pasteurized liquid eggs. You’ll still get the creamy texture without the concern.
– Want it less sweet? Cut the simple syrup down to ½ oz (15 ml) or swap it with honey or agave syrup for a more natural sweetness.
Make-Ahead Notes
While the Orange Flip is best made fresh (because of the egg), you can prep the orange juice, simple syrup, and even measure out the spirits ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and shake everything together when you’re ready to serve.
Storage
Once shaken, it’s best to drink it right away. The foam will start to settle after a few minutes. If you absolutely must wait, give it a quick stir before sipping.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is a lovely way to cap off a cozy dinner or a lazy weekend brunch. It’s rich but still light enough to enjoy with food. Here are a few bites that pair beautifully:
Perfect Pairings
– Dark chocolate truffles: The bittersweet chocolate balances the creamy sweetness of the drink.
– Spiced nuts: A salty, crunchy contrast that also echoes the nutmeg garnish.
– Cheese board: Think creamy brie, sharp cheddar, and some dried fruit or orange marmalade for a full flavor experience.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch—it’s a conversation starter and a comforting treat all in one.
Variations
Want to mix things up? Try one of these spins on the classic:
Chocolate Orange Flip
– Add 0.5 oz (15 ml) chocolate liqueur to the base recipe.
– Shake as usual for a rich, dessert-style twist.
Berry Orange Flip
– Muddle a few fresh raspberries or strawberries in the shaker before adding the rest.
– Shake and strain for a bright berry note.
Spiced Orange Flip
– Swap the brandy for spiced rum.
– The warm spices in the rum add a comforting, cozy feel.
Virgin Orange Flip
– Replace the brandy and orange liqueur with orange soda or a splash of ginger ale.
– Shake with the rest (including the egg) for a frothy, non-alcoholic treat.
Substitutions
– Brandy: Try bourbon for a deeper, slightly smoky flavor.
– Simple syrup: Use maple syrup, honey, or even agave for a twist.
– Egg: Pasteurized liquid eggs work well if you’re concerned about raw eggs.
FAQs
Can I make it without alcohol?
Absolutely. Try orange soda or ginger ale in place of the spirits for a bubbly, family-friendly version.
Is the raw egg safe?
If you’re using fresh, properly stored eggs, it’s generally safe. For peace of mind, use pasteurized eggs.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the simple syrup or use a naturally less sweet alternative like honey or maple syrup.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
You could, but fresh juice really brings out the best in this drink. It’s worth squeezing a few oranges.
What’s the best garnish?
Freshly grated nutmeg adds a lovely aroma. An orange twist works great too for a pop of color and citrusy scent.
Can I batch this for a party?
You can mix everything except the egg ahead of time. When ready to serve, shake each drink with the egg individually for the best texture.
The Orange Flip is one of those hidden gem cocktails—simple, nostalgic, and a little indulgent. Whether you’re winding down after dinner or hosting friends, this creamy citrus sipper is always a hit.
