The Maple Pumpkin Flip is a rich, creamy cocktail that combines autumn flavors with classic flip-style craftsmanship. Apple brandy and rye whiskey provide depth and warmth, while pumpkin ale introduces a malty, seasonal backbone. Maple syrup adds earthy sweetness, and a whole egg brings luxurious texture and froth. Finished with freshly grated nutmeg, this cocktail feels indulgent, smooth, and perfectly suited for cool evenings. The Maple Pumpkin Flip is both comforting and complex, making it an excellent choice for fall gatherings or as a festive after-dinner drink.
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Tasting Notes
The Maple Pumpkin Flip is rich, creamy, and layered with seasonal warmth. Apple brandy and rye whiskey form a bold, structured base with fruit, spice, and oak. Pumpkin ale adds depth and a malty, slightly spiced quality, tying the cocktail to autumn flavors. Maple syrup contributes smooth sweetness, balancing the stronger spirits. The whole egg gives the drink its classic flip texture, silky and frothy with a luxurious mouthfeel. Garnished with freshly grated nutmeg, the aroma enhances the warming profile. This cocktail feels substantial yet balanced, perfect as both a nightcap and a dessert-inspired seasonal drink.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare the Maple Pumpkin Flip, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for both the dry shake and the second shake with ice. A bar jigger ensures precise measurements of the ale, brandy, whiskey, and syrup. A strainer allows for a clean, smooth pour into the serving glass. Since the cocktail contains a whole egg, a dry shake is essential for proper emulsification, so shaking technique matters. A fine grater or microplane is useful for fresh nutmeg garnish. The drink is best served in a coupe glass, which highlights the frothy top and creates a polished presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 oz pumpkin ale
- 1 oz apple brandy
- 1 oz rye whiskey
- 0.5 oz maple syrup
- 1 whole egg
- Grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Add the pumpkin ale, apple brandy, rye whiskey, maple syrup, and whole egg into a cocktail shaker.
- Dry-shake the mixture (without ice) vigorously to combine the ingredients and emulsify the egg.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg and serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs for safety and best texture.
- Always perform a dry shake first for proper froth.
- Strain carefully to achieve a smooth, creamy pour.
- Try a spiced pumpkin ale for deeper seasonal notes.
- Adjust maple syrup to taste if you prefer more sweetness.
- Chill your coupe glass before serving for added refinement.
- Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg, not pre-ground, for maximum aroma.
When to Serve
The Maple Pumpkin Flip is an excellent cocktail for colder months when rich, creamy drinks shine. It’s ideal for Thanksgiving gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy evenings where you’d typically serve dessert cocktails. With its warming blend of spirits, pumpkin ale, and maple, it pairs beautifully with seasonal dishes like roasted meats, pies, and spiced cookies. Because of its frothy, satisfying body, it can even serve as a dessert replacement on its own. This cocktail stands out at celebratory occasions where festive flavors are expected, offering both depth and indulgence in a single glass.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Laird’s Apple Brandy
- Calvados (Christian Drouin)
- Rittenhouse Rye
- Sazerac Rye
- Crown Maple Syrup
Similar Cocktails
- Caramel Apple Manhattan
- Cranberry Apple Fizz
- Apple Brandy Rickey
- Applejack Old Fashioned
- Apple Brandy Negroni
Equipment
- Grater
Ingredients
- 2 oz pumpkin ale
- 1 oz apple brandy
- 1 oz rye whiskey
- 0.5 oz maple syrup
- 1 whole egg
- Grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Add the pumpkin ale, apple brandy, rye whiskey, maple syrup, and whole egg into a cocktail shaker.
- Dry-shake the mixture (without ice) vigorously to combine the ingredients and emulsify the egg.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg and serve immediately.
Notes
Pro Tips
- To ensure a smooth texture, dry-shake the cocktail for at least 15 seconds before adding ice.
- Use a fresh egg to enhance the creamy texture and richness of the drink.
- For added flavor, consider toasting the nutmeg before grating it over the drink.