Bourbon Flip Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Bourbon Flip recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Bourbon
Alcohol 14%
Calories 350 calories
Fat 10g
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 8g
Prep time 2 minutes

Imagine you’re in a cozy, dimly-lit bar, and you want to impress your friends by ordering something classic but with a twist. That’s where the Bourbon Flip comes in—it’s a creamy, rich cocktail with a touch of sweetness and the warming embrace of bourbon. We’ll explore its history, taste, and how to make your own, so let’s get started on this flavorful journey together! ⬇️

History

The Bourbon Flip is a cocktail with a story, rooted in colonial America where flips were a popular drink category. Initially made with beer, sugar, and a spirit, it was heated with a hot iron, which caused it to froth or “flip.” This drink has evolved over time, with the modern version dropping the beer and adding a whole egg for a rich, creamy texture.

  • The name ‘Flip’ originates from the frothy texture created when the drink is shaken.
  • Flips were traditionally winter drinks, served warm to help fend off the cold.
  • The use of bourbon in Flips is a distinctly American twist, dating back to the 19th century.

The taste of a Bourbon Flip?

A Bourbon Flip tastes like a cozy hug from the inside out. It’s a creamy blend of sweet caramel notes from the bourbon and a hint of spice, with a smooth, velvety finish.

I personally love Bourbon Flips because they feel like a special treat, with their rich flavor and frothy top.

Interesting facts about Bourbon Flip

  • Bourbon Flips include a whole egg, which gives them a silky, custard-like texture.
  • This cocktail is often garnished with a grating of fresh nutmeg, enhancing its warm, spicy aroma.
  • Despite its creamy consistency, the Bourbon Flip does not contain cream or milk.

Ingredients

  • Bourbon: 2 oz (60 ml)
  • Simple syrup: 1/2 oz (15 ml)
  • Fresh egg: 1 whole
  • Nutmeg: for garnish

A Bourbon Flip shines in a chilled coupe glass, enhancing the luxurious sip and allowing the aromas to concentrate. Alternatively, a rocks glass can also cradle this velvety beverage quite nicely.

Recipe. How to make Bourbon Flip

  1. Pour 2 oz (60 ml) of bourbon into a shaker.
  2. Add 1/2 oz (15 ml) of simple syrup and one whole egg.
  3. Shake vigorously without ice to emulsify the egg.
  4. Add ice and shake again until well-chilled.
  5. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

While a Bourbon Flip is undoubtedly decadent, its sugar and calorie content can be a concern for some. To make a healthier version, consider substituting simple syrup with a natural sweetener like honey. Remember, the whole egg does bring some nutritional benefits, such as protein and essential vitamins.

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Food Pairings

A well-crafted Bourbon Flip is like a symphony of flavors, and when paired with the right food, it’s pure harmony. Here are some ideal companions to this velvety cocktail:

Smoked Meats

The bold, rich flavors of smoked meats like brisket or bacon beautifully complement the sweet and creamy profile of a Bourbon Flip, creating a balance that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Dark Chocolate Desserts

Pairing a Bourbon Flip with a dark chocolate dessert brings out the bourbon’s caramel notes and the chocolate’s bittersweetness, making for a luxurious taste experience.

Spiced Nuts

The nutty, spicy crunch of spiced nuts like candied pecans or walnuts adds a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy texture of the cocktail, enhancing its complexity.

I adore the flavors in a Bourbon Flip—the creamy texture and the subtle spice are just perfect for sipping on a lazy evening.


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Bartender Advice

  • Always use fresh eggs to ensure the best flavor and safety in your Bourbon Flip.
  • Give the cocktail a good dry shake before adding ice to create the perfect frothy top.
  • Grate nutmeg fresh over the top for a burst of aroma with each sip.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Bourbon Flip, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Bourbon Flip

  • Simple syrup: Can be substituted with maple syrup for a deeper, autumnal sweetness.
  • Bourbon: Experiment with different bourbon ages to find your preferred flavor complexity.
  • Egg: For a lighter texture, use just the egg white rather than the whole egg.

Bourbon Flip Variations

Maple Bourbon Flip

  • Ingredients: Replace simple syrup with maple syrup for a woodsy twist.
  • Recipe: Follow the classic recipe, substituting simple syrup with the same amount of maple syrup.

Chocolate Bourbon Flip

  • Ingredients: Add a splash of chocolate liqueur for a decadent touch.
  • Recipe: Include chocolate liqueur with the bourbon and simple syrup, then shake and serve as usual.

Spiced Bourbon Flip

  • Ingredients: Introduce a pinch of cinnamon to the mix for a spiced variant.
  • Recipe: Add cinnamon with the other ingredients, shake well, and strain into your glass.

For those who prefer to skip the alcohol, a Virgin Bourbon Flip can be just as delightful. Mix a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative with simple syrup and a whole egg, then shake and strain into a glass for a frothy treat.

Q&A

What makes the ‘flip’ in a Bourbon Flip?

Well, it’s all about the shake! The vigorous shaking creates that frothy texture we all love.

Can I make a Bourbon Flip without the egg?

You could, but you’d miss out on the creaminess. Try just the egg white for a lighter version!

Is there a specific bourbon I should use?

Not necessarily. Choose a bourbon you enjoy drinking on its own for the best result.

What’s the best sweetener to use if I’m watching my sugar intake?

Honey or agave nectar are great natural alternatives that blend well in a Bourbon Flip.

How can I make sure my Bourbon Flip is safe to drink with the raw egg?

Use fresh, high-quality eggs and consider pasteurized ones to minimize any risks.

Are there any non-boozy versions of this cocktail?

Certainly! You can enjoy the flavors by using a non-alcoholic bourbon substitute in your Virgin Bourbon Flip.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

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