The Boston Flip: ‘Warm & Creamy’

Foamy and gently spiced, the Boston Flip is often regarded as a toasty treat in a glass. Its creamy texture and comforting warmth make it an enticing choice for those who love cozy, dessert-like cocktails. While flips may not dominate modern menus, the Boston Flip still holds its own with a timeless appeal that delights connoisseurs seeking a touch of history in their evening libation.

The Boston Flip: ‘Warm & Creamy’

Thi cocktail recipe brings together rich spirit, typically Brandy or Rum, with a whole Egg, a small measure of Sugar, and subtle spicing. Shaken vigorously, the egg aerates the drink, creating a silky body topped with a delicate foam. That smooth consistency is enhanced by the underlying flavors of Brandy or Rum, which add depth and a warming edge.

Some bartenders incorporate a splash of Port instead of Rum for an even rounder finish, while others stick closely to old recipes for an authentic mid-19th-century taste. When poured into a chilled coupe or stemmed glass, the final beverage displays a gentle tan hue and a tempting scent of nutmeg or other aromatic spices. The sip itself feels almost dessert-like, but without becoming cloyingly sweet.

Whether you’re enjoying it by the fireside or at a vintage-style bar, the Boston Flip delivers a balance of creamy texture and comforting spice. Although not the most widely known flip, it has endured as a classic testament to early American cocktail craftsmanship, giving those who sample it a connection to bygone eras of spirited innovation.

a velvety mixture of spirit, egg, and subtle sweetness you won’t soon forget.

Did you know that Boston Flip...

Did you know that flips originated as early tavern drinks, often heated with a hot poker to create froth?

Who invented this cocktail

The exact creator of the Boston Flip is unclear, but it surfaced in American bars in the early 1900s.

The origin and history of "Boston Flip"

Unlike some flips that trace their roots to colonial times, the Boston Flip emerged in documented recipes during the early 20th century.

Bartending guides often lumped it among similar egg-based concoctions, but its name hints at a unique New England influence. Over time, it became a favorite for those craving a velvety warmth, ensuring its quiet presence on select bar menus for generations since.

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Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Boston Flip"

To make a satisfying Boston Flip, try these tips:
  • Select a robust Brandy or Rum for a pronounced base note.
  • Crack a fresh whole Egg to achieve that classic creamy foam.
  • Use a light Sugar syrup or fine sugar, adjusting sweetness to taste.
  • Shake very hard with ice to properly emulsify the egg and spirit.
  • Finish with a dusting of Nutmeg or a similar spice for extra aroma.

Boston Flip recipe

Prep: 3 minTotal: 5 min

Ingredients

  • 60 ml BOURBON
  • 60 ml MADEIRA
  • 7.5 ml SUGAR SYRUP
  • 1 EGG WHITE
  • 1 EGG YOLK
  • 2 oz BOURBON
  • 2 oz MADEIRA
  • ¼ oz SUGAR SYRUP
  • 1 EGG WHITE
  • 1 EGG YOLK

Garnish

  • DUST OF NUTMEG

Preparation

  1. Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice
  2. Shake well until it feels cold
  3. Fine strain into the chilled glass
  4. Garnish and serve

Nutritional Info

  • Calories:243 kcal
  • Alcohol units:3.5 units
  • ABV (Alcohol By Volume)~28%

Dietary Info

Gluten-freeDairy-free

"Boston Flip" Variations

  • Port Flip – Replaces the base spirit with Port, yielding a sweeter, ruby-hued version.
  • Sherry Twist – Uses Amontillado Sherry instead of Brandy, adding a nutty complexity.
  • Spiced Flip – Incorporates a spiced Rum or a dash of aromatic bitters for more depth.
  • Chocolate Flip – Adds a splash of Chocolate Liqueur for a dessert-like experience.
  • Bourbon Flip – Swaps out Brandy for Bourbon to introduce a smoky-sweet character.

The Boston Flip’s gentle foam and cozy spice speak to an era when eggs in cocktails were the height of creative mixology. It’s a sweet, smooth journey back in time, showing off how a few simple ingredients can transform into a memorable nightcap. Whether savoured on a chilly evening or just for fun, it’s worth a spirited sip.

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Current Comments: 4

Zoe_Art
Nov 19, 2024
Forgot to add nutmeg once and felt the flip was missing something. Realized that the spice really brings out the depth of bourbon and madeira. Now, I always top mine with a light dusting.
L. Pietro
Oct 2, 2024
Adjusted the sugar syrup based on the sweetness of the madeira I used. It made the flip just right without being overly sweet. The creamy texture from the eggs is divine.
EveS
Jul 4, 2024
Tried adding a splash of simple syrup to the Boston Flip and it turned it into a dessert-like drink. It was sweet enough without being cloying, and the nutmeg added a nice spice.
Carlos R.
Apr 20, 2024
Loved the richness of the Boston Flip with both egg yolk and white. The bourbon and madeira blend creates a smooth, sweet base. Topped with a dusting of nutmeg, it was perfect for a winter night.