There’s something truly special about a Cherry Flip—a classic cocktail that blends rich flavors with a smooth, creamy texture. This delightful drink dates back to the 19th century when flips were all the rage, combining spirits, sugar, and eggs for a velvety finish. It’s a perfect choice when you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in.
We love how the Cherry Flip balances the sweetness of cherry liqueur with the warmth of brandy and the silkiness of a whole egg. It’s surprisingly easy to make yet feels luxurious with every sip. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting out, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your cocktail repertoire. Let’s dive into crafting this timeless drink that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly unique.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Cherry Flip, we need fresh and high-quality ingredients that capture the cocktail’s rich and creamy nature. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need.
For the Cherry Flip
- 2 oz cherry liqueur (preferably a rich, dark variety for depth of flavor)
- 1 oz brandy (a smooth, well-aged brandy enhances warmth)
- 1 whole egg (fresh and cold, essential for the creamy texture)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust based on your preferred sweetness)
- 1 dash Angostura bitters (adds complexity and balances sweetness)
- Ice cubes (for shaking and chilling)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry liqueur | 2 oz | Choose a deep cherry flavor liqueur |
| Brandy | 1 oz | Use a smooth, well-aged brandy |
| Whole egg | 1 | Fresh and cold for the perfect texture |
| Simple syrup | 1/2 oz | Adjust sweetness to taste |
| Angostura bitters | 1 dash | Adds balance and aromatic depth |
| Ice cubes | As needed | For shaking and chilling |
For Garnish (Optional)
- Maraschino cherry (classic and visually appealing)
- Grated nutmeg (sprinkled lightly for aroma and spice)
- Lemon twist (for a subtle citrus aroma)
Pro Tip: Garnishing with a few maraschino cherries alongside a dusting of freshly grated nutmeg elevates the cocktail’s presentation and enhances the nostalgic flavor profile of the Cherry Flip.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Cherry Flip, having the right equipment is essential for achieving the ideal texture and flavor balance. Here’s everything we need to prepare this classic cocktail flawlessly:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cocktail shaker | To vigorously shake the ingredients with ice, ensuring the egg and liquids combine smoothly and chill properly. |
| Strainer | To filter out ice shards and egg solids, delivering a silky smooth cocktail. |
| Measuring jigger | For precise measurement of cherry liqueur, brandy, and simple syrup to maintain recipe accuracy. |
| Mixing glass | Optional for initial stirring or combining ingredients before shaking. |
| Bar spoon | To stir ingredients gently when needed. |
| Fine grater or zester | For grating nutmeg or zesting lemon peel garnish to enhance aroma and presentation. |
| Cocktail glass | A coupe or martini glass works best for serving the Cherry Flip in style. |
| Ice cubes | Essential for chilling the cocktail without diluting the creamy texture. |
Pro Tip: Using a dry shake technique – shaking the ingredients without ice first – helps emulsify the egg for a richer, frothier result before adding ice for the final chill.
By assembling these tools before beginning, we ensure every step of making the Cherry Flip runs smoothly, enhancing our chances of sipping on a flawless, velvety cocktail.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to craft the perfect Cherry Flip with a rich, creamy texture and balanced flavors.
Prep the Ingredients
- Crack 1 whole egg into a small bowl to check freshness and avoid shell fragments.
- Measure 2 oz cherry liqueur using a jigger for accuracy.
- Pour 1 oz well-aged brandy with another measuring tool.
- Prepare 1/2 oz simple syrup for sweetness.
- Gather a dash of Angostura bitters to add depth.
- Fill your shaker with ice cubes to chill the drink effectively.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole egg | 1 | Fresh, room temperature |
| Cherry liqueur | 2 oz | High quality |
| Well-aged brandy | 1 oz | Smooth and flavorful |
| Simple syrup | 1/2 oz | Homemade or store-bought |
| Angostura bitters | 1 dash | For aromatic complexity |
| Ice cubes | As needed | For proper chilling |
Make the Cherry Flip
- Add the egg, cherry liqueur, brandy, simple syrup, and a dash of Angostura bitters into the cocktail shaker.
- Perform a dry shake—shake vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg and create a frothy texture.
- Add a generous amount of ice cubes to the shaker.
- Shake again hard for 20-30 seconds, chilling and diluting the cocktail to perfect balance.
- Using a fine strainer, pour the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass to achieve a smooth, silky finish.
Garnish and Serve
- Lightly grate fresh nutmeg over the top to release warm aromatic notes.
- Add a maraschino cherry on a cocktail pick for a classic touch.
- Optionally, express a lemon twist over the glass rim to add a hint of zest.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the velvety layers of the Cherry Flip cocktail.
Pro Tip: Garnishing with nutmeg and a maraschino cherry not only enhances the flavor but also evokes the nostalgic charm of this timeless drink.
Tips for the Best Cherry Flip
To master the Cherry Flip and truly unlock its rich, creamy texture and vibrant cherry flavor, we recommend following these essential tips:
Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
Always select the freshest whole egg and the finest cherry liqueur available. Fresh eggs are vital for safety and for achieving that velvety froth. Opt for a well-aged brandy to enhance the depth and warmth of the cocktail.
Master the Shaking Technique
Start with a dry shake—shake all ingredients without ice for about 15 seconds. This step emulsifies the whole egg, creating a luxurious foam and silky mouthfeel. Follow immediately with a second shake with ice for 20–30 seconds to chill the cocktail perfectly.
Measure Ingredients Precisely
Precision is key for balancing sweetness and spirit strength. Use a jigger to measure each component accurately:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Cherry Liqueur | 2 oz (60 ml) |
| Brandy | 1 oz (30 ml) |
| Whole Egg | 1 |
| Simple Syrup | 1/2 oz (15 ml) |
| Angostura Bitters | 1 dash |
Garnish Thoughtfully
Enhance both presentation and aroma by garnishing with a maraschino cherry and a light sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg. Add a lemon twist for a zesty contrast that lifts the drink’s profile. As the saying goes, “We eat with our eyes first,” and garnishes play a crucial role in appeal.
Serve in the Right Glassware
Choose a chilled coupe or martini glass to maintain the perfect temperature and focus the aromas. Pre-chilling the glass adds to the overall enjoyment by keeping the drink crisp longer.
Ensure Safety When Using Raw Eggs
If you have any safety concerns, opt for pasteurized eggs. Always confirm egg freshness by placing the egg in a bowl of water—a fresh egg will sink while an old egg floats.
Pro Tip: Achieve the Perfect Texture
To capture the iconic creamy texture of the Cherry Flip, shake vigorously during the dry shake step. The more air you incorporate, the richer and smoother the froth you’ll get, turning every sip into a velvety experience.
“A perfectly made Cherry Flip is a harmony of flavor, texture, and aroma — it’s a drink you’ll want to savor sip by velvety sip.“
Following these tips ensures our Cherry Flip tastes authentic, balanced, and indulgent every time.
Variations of the Cherry Flip Recipe
Exploring variations of the Cherry Flip allows us to customize this classic cocktail while preserving its signature creamy texture and rich cherry flavor. Below, we outline popular tweaks that maintain balance yet offer exciting twists.
1. Spiced Cherry Flip
Add a warming depth by incorporating spices alongside the original ingredients.
- Substitute a dash of Angostura bitters with cinnamon or allspice bitters
- Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon into the shaker before dry shaking
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick instead of the traditional lemon twist
This variation intensifies the cozy, nostalgic feel of the drink—perfect for colder evenings.
2. Cherry Flip with Dark Rum
For a more robust, tropical influence, swap the brandy for dark rum:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry liqueur | 2 oz | Original liqueur |
| Dark rum | 1 oz | Rich molasses flavor |
| Whole egg | 1 | Fresh, pasteurized preferred |
| Simple syrup | 1/2 oz | Adjust sweetness to taste |
| Angostura bitters | 1 dash | Classic aromatic bitters |
This dark rum version delivers a unique caramel undertone while keeping the cocktail smooth and creamy.
3. Vegan-Friendly Cherry Flip
We can replace the whole egg with aquafaba (chickpea water) to achieve that beloved frothy texture without animal products:
- Use 2 oz cherry liqueur
- Use 1 oz brandy as the base spirit
- Replace 1 whole egg with 3 tablespoons aquafaba
- Maintain 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Add a dash of Angostura bitters
Dry shake vigorously to incorporate air, then ice shake. The result is an equally creamy and frothy cocktail with a plant-based twist.
4. Frozen Cherry Flip
Turning the classic into a frozen delight offers refreshing flair:
- Blend 2 oz cherry liqueur, 1 oz brandy, 1 whole egg, 1/2 oz simple syrup, and a handful of ice cubes
- Blend until smooth and frosty
- Serve in a chilled coupe glass, garnished with grated nutmeg and a maraschino cherry
This slushy texture adds a playful element to the traditional Cherry Flip.
Summary Table of Variations
| Variation | Key Change | Effect | Garnish Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spiced Cherry Flip | Cinnamon/allspice bitters + spices | Warm, aromatic profile | Cinnamon stick, grated nutmeg |
| Dark Rum Cherry Flip | Replace brandy with dark rum | Rich, caramel undertones | Maraschino cherry, lemon twist |
| Vegan Cherry Flip | Use aquafaba instead of egg | Plant-based, frothy texture | Nutmeg, lemon twist |
| Frozen Cherry Flip | Blend with ice | Refreshing, slushy texture | Maraschino cherry, grated nutmeg |
Experimenting with these variations of the Cherry Flip lets us tailor the cocktail’s flavor, texture, and style—ensuring it fits every occasion without losing its classic charm.
Conclusion
The Cherry Flip stands out as a timeless cocktail that effortlessly blends rich cherry notes with creamy texture. By following the right techniques and using quality ingredients, we can recreate this classic with ease and confidence. Whether we stick to the original recipe or explore creative variations, the Cherry Flip promises a delightful experience worth savoring.
With a little practice and attention to detail, this cocktail can become a go-to favorite for any occasion. Let’s raise our glasses to enjoying the perfect balance of flavor and nostalgia in every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cherry Flip cocktail?
The Cherry Flip is a classic 19th-century cocktail made with cherry liqueur, brandy, a whole egg, simple syrup, and bitters. It’s known for its rich, creamy texture and balanced sweetness with a warm finish.
What ingredients do I need to make a Cherry Flip?
You need 2 oz cherry liqueur, 1 oz well-aged brandy, 1 whole egg, ½ oz simple syrup, a dash of Angostura bitters, and ice. Optional garnishes include maraschino cherry, grated nutmeg, and lemon twist.
What equipment is essential for making a Cherry Flip?
Essential tools are a cocktail shaker, strainer, measuring jigger, and ice. Optional tools include a mixing glass, bar spoon, and a fine grater for garnishes. Serve in a coupe or martini glass.
How do I make a Cherry Flip cocktail?
Check egg freshness, measure ingredients, perform a dry shake (without ice) to emulsify the egg, then shake with ice to chill. Strain into a glass and garnish with nutmeg, a maraschino cherry, and optional lemon twist.
What is the dry shake technique?
Dry shaking means shaking cocktail ingredients without ice first to emulsify the egg, creating a richer, frothier texture. Follow with a shake with ice to chill the drink.
Can I make a Cherry Flip if I’m allergic to eggs or vegan?
Yes, you can use aquafaba (chickpea water) as an egg substitute to make a vegan-friendly Cherry Flip with a similar creamy texture.
How should I serve and garnish a Cherry Flip?
Serve chilled in a coupe or martini glass. Garnish with grated nutmeg, a maraschino cherry, and optionally a lemon twist to enhance flavor and presentation.
What variations of the Cherry Flip can I try?
Popular variations include the Spiced Cherry Flip (with warming spices), Cherry Flip with Dark Rum (for a tropical twist), Vegan Cherry Flip (using aquafaba), and a Frozen Cherry Flip (served slushy).
Is it safe to use raw eggs in the Cherry Flip?
For safety, use fresh pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of salmonella. Always check egg freshness before use.
What tips help make the perfect Cherry Flip?
Use high-quality, fresh ingredients; measure accurately; master dry shake and shake with ice; garnish thoughtfully; and serve in chilled glassware for the best taste and texture.