Advocaat: The Creamy Dutch Delight

BY: Emma Ricci

•

updated 22 May 2023

• JUMP TO COCKTAILS
Advocaat: The Creamy Dutch Delight

Advocaat, the rich and velvety Egg-based liqueur, is a quintessential treat from the Netherlands. Often referred to as "Dutch eggnog", this creamy spirit is made from a blend of Egg yolks, Sugar, and Brandy, delivering a smooth and indulgent flavour with notes of vanilla and custard. Typically enjoyed during the winter months, Advocaat is beloved for its association with festive traditions and comforting warmth.

With an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging between 14% and 20%, Advocaat’s silky texture and versatile profile make it a favourite for sipping neat, mixing into desserts, or as an essential ingredient in classic cocktails like the Snowball. It shares its heritage with other Egg liqueurs, such as Eierlikör from Germany and Rompope from Mexico, which reflect the universal appeal of creamy, egg-based spirits.

Advocaat belongs to the broader family of cream and Egg liqueurs, which also includes modern variations like Irish Cream. These liqueurs are prized for their decadent flavours and their ability to enhance both drinks and culinary creations. Whether served on its own, stirred into coffee, or used to create festive desserts, Advocaat remains a timeless and indulgent favourite.

“

A smooth, custard-like delight, Advocaat celebrates the rich tradition of egg-based liqueurs.

”

The Origins and Early History

Advocaat traces its origins to the 17th century, inspired by a drink called "abacate," a creamy spirit made with avocados brought to Europe from South America. Dutch settlers adapted the recipe, replacing avocados with egg yolks, which were more readily available in the Netherlands.

The name "Advocaat" is thought to derive from this connection, blending tradition with local ingredients to create the creamy liqueur known today. By the 19th century, Advocaat had become a popular treat in Dutch households, celebrated for its rich texture and festive appeal.

Historical Development

Over the centuries, Advocaat evolved into a refined liqueur, with recipes perfected by Dutch distillers. By the mid-20th century, it gained international recognition, becoming a staple in European and British cocktail culture.

Its association with winter festivities and desserts helped solidify its reputation as a luxurious and comforting drink. Today, brands like Bols and Warninks lead the market, ensuring Advocaat’s quality and consistency.

Global Influence

Advocaat is enjoyed worldwide, with its creamy, custard-like texture making it a versatile favourite in drinks and desserts. In the United Kingdom, it is an essential ingredient in the classic Snowball cocktail, often served during the holiday season.

Beyond Advocaat, other egg-based liqueurs have gained popularity globally. German Eierlikör offers a similar flavour profile, while Mexican Rompope incorporates Cinnamon and vanilla for a spiced twist. Together, these liqueurs showcase the universal charm of creamy, egg-based spirits.

Advocaat in Modern Times

In recent years, Advocaat has maintained its status as a beloved traditional liqueur, while also inspiring innovative uses in modern mixology and cuisine. Bartenders and chefs alike have embraced its rich texture and sweet, custard-like flavour for crafting unique cocktails and indulgent desserts.

Advocaat’s adaptability has also led to the creation of new recipes, such as custard tarts and ice creams infused with its signature taste. With its timeless appeal and versatile profile, Advocaat continues to delight both classic enthusiasts and adventurous foodies.

Signature Cocktails

Advocaat’s creamy richness makes it a key ingredient in a variety of festive and indulgent cocktails:

  • Snowball

    Advocaat, lemonade, and a splash of Lime for a classic holiday favourite.

  • Eggnog Martini

    Advocaat, Vodka, and a hint of Nutmeg for a decadent twist on a classic.

  • Golden Flip

    Advocaat, Rum, and Simple Syrup, shaken with ice for a creamy delight.

  • Custard Coffee

    Advocaat stirred into hot coffee and topped with Whipped Cream.

  • Dutch Delight

    Advocaat, Gin, and Orange juice for a fruity and creamy mix.

  • Advocaat Alexander

    Advocaat, Brandy, and Cream for a smooth, luxurious cocktail.

  • Festive Eggnog Punch

    Advocaat, Spiced Rum, and a blend of seasonal spices for a party-perfect punch.

  • Lemon Custard Mule

    Advocaat, Ginger Beer, and Lemon Juice for a refreshing take on a classic Mule.

List of recipes with Advocaat

Get Our Free Cocktail App

Start making cocktails at home within minutes!

download mishela app from android
download mishela app from ios

Future expectations...

From its Dutch roots to its global acclaim, Advocaat embodies the comforting richness of egg-based liqueurs.

With its velvety texture, versatile flavour, and timeless charm, Advocaat continues to delight as a festive favourite in drinks and desserts alike. Whether savoured neat, mixed into a cocktail, or enjoyed in a dessert, Advocaat remains a true indulgence.

Frequent questions on Advocaat

  • What kind of spirit is Advocaat?

    Advocaat is a creamy Dutch liqueur made from egg yolks, sugar, and brandy, offering a rich and smooth flavor often compared to eggnog.

  • What does Advocaat taste like?

    Advocaat has a sweet, custard-like flavor with notes of vanilla and a velvety, creamy texture.

  • How should Advocaat be served?

    Advocaat can be served neat, as a topping for desserts, or used in cocktails like the Snowball, which pairs Advocaat with lemonade.

  • When should Advocaat be served?

    Advocaat is often enjoyed during festive occasions, as a dessert accompaniment, or in creamy cocktails.

  • Should Advocaat be refrigerated?

    Yes, Advocaat should be refrigerated after opening to preserve its freshness and creamy texture.

  • What are the ingredients in Advocaat?

    Advocaat is made from egg yolks, sugar, brandy, and sometimes vanilla for additional flavor.

  • How long does an opened bottle of Advocaat last?

    An opened bottle of Advocaat can last up to six months if stored in the refrigerator.

  • Is Advocaat a digestif?

    Yes, Advocaat can be enjoyed as a digestif, especially when served neat or paired with desserts.

  • Why is Advocaat significant in Dutch culture?

    Advocaat is a traditional liqueur in Dutch culture, often associated with festive celebrations and enjoyed as a classic treat.