A Quaker’s Cocktail is one of those drinks that feels both timeless and special. With its refreshing blend of apple brandy, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and a touch of frothy egg white, it strikes the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and silky. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it always brings a little vintage charm to any evening. Whether you’re mixing it up for a dinner party or a quiet night at home, this one’s a keeper.
Quaker's Cocktail
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) apple brandy
- 0.75 oz (22 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 0.75 oz (22 ml) raspberry syrup
- 1 egg white (about 33 ml)
Optional garnish: A lemon twist or fresh raspberries
Prep Time and Servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Serves: 1 cocktail
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Cocktail glass (or coupe glass)
Method
- Pop your cocktail glass in the freezer to chill while you mix the drink. A frosty glass makes all the difference.
- In your shaker, combine the apple brandy, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and egg white. Don’t add ice yet!
- Shake it up without ice (called a dry shake) for about 10 seconds. This helps the egg white get nice and frothy.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again, this time really vigorously, until the shaker feels cold to the touch—about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain the cocktail into your chilled glass. The frothy layer on top is your reward for all that shaking.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a few raspberries if you’re feeling fancy. Then sip and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Fresh lemon juice is key. Bottled juice just won’t give you that bright, zippy flavor.
- When you dry shake, hold the shaker tight! Without ice, the pressure can cause leaks.
- For the frothiest top, make sure to shake hard—don’t be shy!
Substitutions and Variations
- No apple brandy? Use pear brandy for a slightly different fruity twist.
- Raspberry syrup swap: Try agave syrup for a less sweet, more subtle flavor.
- Egg-free option: Aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) works wonders as a vegan alternative to egg whites.
Fun Variations
- Summer Quaker: Swap the raspberry syrup for peach purée for a sunny, summery vibe.
- Spiced Quaker: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the shaker for a cozy, warm note.
- Quaker’s Fizz: Skip the egg white and top the cocktail with a splash of club soda for a bubbly version.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with food! Here are a few ideas to take your sipping experience to the next level:
- Charcuterie board: The salty meats and rich cheeses balance the cocktail’s sweet-tart flavor.
- Dark chocolate desserts: A little bitter chocolate makes the fruity notes in the drink pop.
- Soft cheeses: Brie or camembert’s creamy richness plays nicely with the cocktail’s acidity.
Make-Ahead Notes
If you’re prepping for a party, you can mix the apple brandy, lemon juice, and raspberry syrup in advance and store it in the fridge. Just hold off on adding the egg white until you’re ready to shake and serve.
FAQ
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is always best, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled will work. Just know the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
What’s the best apple brandy to use?
A good-quality apple brandy like Calvados or a small-batch craft option will give you the richest flavor.
How can I get the perfect froth on top?
The secret is shaking really hard—at least 10 seconds—with ice. The dry shake before adding ice also helps create that creamy foam.
What if I don’t have a cocktail glass?
No worries! A coupe glass works just as well, or even a small wine glass in a pinch.
Is the egg white safe to use?
If you’re concerned, use pasteurized eggs—they’re perfectly safe for cocktails.
Storage Tips
This cocktail is best made fresh, but if you’ve got leftover syrup or lemon juice, they’ll keep in the fridge for a few days. Store your egg whites in an airtight container and use them within 24 hours.
Why You’ll Love It
The Quaker’s Cocktail is one of those drinks that feels like a treat every time. Its delicate balance of flavors and silky-smooth texture make it both elegant and approachable. I love serving it on warm summer nights, but honestly, it’s just as lovely in the colder months when you want a little brightness in your glass. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new favorite too!
