This refreshing, citrusy cocktail has been my go-to for summer evenings and special occasions alike. The Pillow Talk is a lovely blend of gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness, topped off with a frothy finish from egg white. It’s light, floral, and perfectly balanced—like sipping a little bit of sunshine. Over the years, I’ve made this countless times, and I’m sharing all the tips I’ve learned to make yours just right.
Pillow Talk
Ingredients
You’ll need the following:
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) gin
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) St. Germain elderflower liqueur
- 0.75 oz (22 ml) fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, boiled and cooled)
- 1 egg white (for that signature frothy top)
- Ice (a handful for shaking)
- Lemon twist (for garnish)
Yields: 1 cocktail
Prep time: 5 minutes
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring spoons
- Fine mesh strainer (for double straining)
- Coupe glass (or martini glass)
Method
- Combine Ingredients: Add the gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white to a cocktail shaker. Don’t add ice yet!
- Dry Shake: Shake the mixture without ice for about 10–15 seconds. This helps the egg white foam up nicely.
- Add Ice and Shake Again: Toss in a handful of ice and shake vigorously for another 15–20 seconds. You’ll feel the shaker get cold in your hands—that’s when you know it’s ready.
- Strain and Serve: Double strain (pour through a fine mesh strainer) into a chilled coupe glass. This removes any ice shards or bits of egg white for a silky-smooth finish.
- Garnish: Top with a lemon twist for a pop of color and aroma. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference—bottled juice just won’t cut it.
- Dry shake first. Skipping this step can leave you with a flat, less frothy cocktail.
- Double strain. It’s worth the extra step for that smooth, velvety texture.
Storage & Make-Ahead Notes
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’re hosting a party, you can mix the gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup in advance. Store the mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then shake with ice and add the egg white just before serving.
Substitutions & Variations
- No elderflower liqueur? Swap it with a splash of elderflower syrup or a floral liqueur like crème de violette.
- No simple syrup? Use honey or agave syrup for a natural twist.
- Egg white alternative: For a vegan option, substitute with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). It works just as well for that frothy top!
- Switch up the citrus: Lime juice adds a tangier kick, while orange juice creates a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
Fun Variations
- Berry Pillow Talk: Add a handful of fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries) to the shaker and muddle before adding the other ingredients.
- Tropical Pillow Talk: Replace the gin with coconut rum for a beachy vibe.
- Spicy Pillow Talk: Add a dash of chili syrup or muddle a slice of jalapeño for a fiery twist.
Serving Suggestions
The Pillow Talk pairs beautifully with light, summery dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Crisp salads: Think arugula with citrus vinaigrette or a watermelon-feta combo.
- Seafood appetizers: Shrimp cocktail, scallops, or ceviche complement the cocktail’s floral and citrus notes.
- Fruity desserts: A slice of lemon tart or a scoop of sorbet is the perfect way to round out the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Pillow Talk special?
It’s all about the balance—citrus, floral, and sweet flavors come together with a frothy, velvety finish. It’s refreshing yet elegant, making it perfect for any occasion.
Can I make it healthier?
Absolutely! Swap the simple syrup for agave or honey, and use a little less if you prefer a less sweet cocktail.
Is the egg white safe to use?
If you’re worried about raw egg, look for pasteurized egg whites. They’re safe to use and work just as well.
Can I batch this cocktail for a party?
You can mix the liquid ingredients ahead of time, but leave out the egg white and ice. When ready to serve, pour individual portions into a shaker, add egg white and ice, and shake to order.
What glass should I use?
A coupe glass is ideal for its elegant presentation, but a martini glass works too.
Final Thoughts
The Pillow Talk is one of those cocktails that feels like a little indulgence every time you make it. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or serving it to friends at a dinner party, it’s sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it—cocktails are meant to be fun! Cheers!
