Santa’s Whiskey Flip

Holiday cocktails always feel a little more special when they lean into warm spices and cozy flavors, and Santa’s Whiskey Flip does exactly that. This smooth winter drink blends cinnamon-infused bourbon, amaretto, cream, and a whole egg to create a silky cocktail that feels like a dessert and nightcap all in one. The first time I made it was on a quiet December evening, and I remember thinking it tasted like something Santa himself might kick back with after a long night delivering gifts.

What makes this holiday recipe stand out is the texture. A good flip is frothy, rich, and gently spiced, and this version brings out all those qualities in a simple, approachable way. I love serving it when I want something comforting that does not rely on heavy chocolate or overly sweet cream liqueurs. The cinnamon from the bourbon pairs beautifully with the nutmeg garnish, giving the drink a warm aroma that fits perfectly with Christmas cocktails and winter gatherings.

This cocktail also brings a classic holiday charm that feels timeless. Flips have been around for centuries, traditionally served during the colder months to add warmth and cheer to celebrations. Santa’s Whiskey Flip stays true to that spirit while adding seasonal flavors that feel fun and festive. If you enjoy creamy cocktails with depth and warmth, this winter recipe is one you’ll want to sip again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This

Santa’s Whiskey Flip has a comforting richness that makes it perfect for cold nights and holiday celebrations.

The combination of cinnamon-infused bourbon and amaretto creates a warm, nutty flavor that blends beautifully with the creamy texture. I love this cocktail because it feels like a holiday treat without being too heavy or overly sweet.

Here are a few reasons this Christmas cocktail deserves a spot on your holiday menu:

• It has a smooth, velvety texture that feels luxurious without much effort.
• The cinnamon-infused bourbon adds natural warmth that fits winter celebrations.
• The drink is quick to prepare, even for beginners.
• It works as both a standalone dessert drink and a cozy evening sip.
• The nutmeg garnish adds aroma and flavor that make each sip feel seasonal.
• It looks elegant in a sour or coupe glass, making it great for holiday entertaining.

All of these qualities make Santa’s Whiskey Flip a wonderful choice whenever you want a cocktail that feels festive and comforting.

Ingredients

This flip comes together with just a few well chosen ingredients that build depth and creaminess. The cinnamon infused bourbon forms the backbone of the drink, bringing spice and warmth. Amaretto adds a soft almond sweetness, while the cream and egg create the silky body that flips are known for.

• 2 oz cinnamon-infused bourbon whiskey
• 0.5 oz amaretto liqueur
• 0.5 oz heavy cream
• 1 egg
• Grated nutmeg for garnish

Each ingredient plays a key role. The bourbon offers structure and spice, the amaretto softens the flavor with a nutty finish, and the egg helps emulsify the drink into its signature frothy texture.

Heavy cream gives it a smooth body, and nutmeg ties everything together with classic holiday aroma.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Choosing the right bourbon and amaretto can elevate this cocktail and help you achieve a balanced flavor. You do not need a top shelf bottle, but smoother brands work best because flips highlight the spirit more than mixed drinks do. If you prefer slight variations, there are plenty of easy substitutions.

Here are some great choices:

• Maker’s Mark Bourbon for a smooth, slightly sweet base that blends well with cinnamon.
• Bulleit Bourbon for a spicier profile that shines in winter cocktails.
• Wild Turkey 101 if you want a stronger bourbon presence.
• Disaronno Amaretto for a classic almond flavor that complements bourbon.
• Luxardo Amaretto as a slightly richer alternative with deeper sweetness.
• Cinnamon syrup can replace cinnamon infused bourbon if needed, though the drink will be sweeter.

These options let you tailor the flavor while keeping the heart of the cocktail intact.

Equipment and Glassware

Making Santa’s Whiskey Flip requires only a few basic tools, which is why it’s such a great holiday recipe even for newer home bartenders. A shaker is essential because the drink needs vigorous shaking to emulsify the egg and cream. A coupe or sour glass helps showcase the frothy top.

Helpful tools include:

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Grater
• Martini Glass or
• Coupe Glass or
• Cocktail glass

Chilling your glass ahead of time gives the drink an even cleaner finish and helps the froth settle beautifully.

How to Make It

The process of making a flip is simple but relies on technique, especially when working with eggs. A dry shake helps incorporate air and create the signature creamy texture, while a second shake with ice chills the drink and gives it a smooth finish. Preparing all your ingredients ahead helps everything come together easily.

1. Add cinnamon-infused bourbon, amaretto, egg, and heavy cream to a cocktail shaker.
2. Perform a dry shake for fifteen to twenty seconds to emulsify the ingredients.
3. Add ice and shake again for about thirty seconds to chill the mixture.
4. Strain into a chilled sour or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

If you want the drink thicker and creamier, increase the shaking time slightly. For a lighter version, reduce the cream or add a small splash of milk.

Pro Tips

Flips can feel intimidating at first because of the egg, but once you understand a few simple tricks, they become incredibly easy to make. These tips help guarantee a smooth texture, balanced flavor, and clean finish every time. I enjoy experimenting with small adjustments because they can create different versions of the same drink.

• Use fresh eggs for the best texture and safety.
• Dry shake longer to create more foam and creaminess.
• Strain twice for a smoother, silkier finish.
• Avoid over-diluting by using larger ice cubes during the second shake.
• Taste before pouring to adjust the sweetness or spice level.
• Try a cinnamon sugar rim for a sweeter presentation.
• Use chilled ingredients to help the drink set more evenly.

These details bring your flip closer to a professional level, even when making it at home.

Variations

Santa’s Whiskey Flip is easy to customize if you want more spice, more sweetness, or a non alcoholic option. Small changes can give the drink a completely different personality while keeping the creamy winter charm intact.

Here are some fun variations:

• Replace cinnamon-infused bourbon with standard bourbon and a dash of cinnamon syrup.
• Add a splash of vanilla syrup for a softer, sweeter flavor.
• Replace amaretto with hazelnut liqueur for a nutty twist.
• Make a non alcoholic version with cinnamon tea, almond syrup, cream, and egg.
• Add a pinch of cocoa powder before shaking for a chocolate-flavored flip.

Each variation opens up new possibilities for winter cocktail lovers.

When to Serve and Pairings

Santa’s Whiskey Flip fits beautifully into holiday celebrations because it feels warm, festive, and dessert-like. It works well as a pre-dinner drink, but it is especially popular after dinner when people want something smooth and cozy. I love serving it during gift wrapping nights or when friends stop by for a relaxed holiday evening.

Try pairing it with:

• Gingerbread cookies
• Pecan pie or pecan bars
• Almond biscotti
• Holiday fudge
• Cinnamon rolls or pastries
• Other warm cocktails like a Drunk Reindeer or Dirty Snowman

These pairings enhance the spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors of the drink.

Storage and Serving Notes

Because Santa’s Whiskey Flip contains egg and cream, it is best served immediately. The frothy texture begins to settle after a few minutes, and the drink loses some of its smoothness if it sits too long. You can prepare the cinnamon-infused bourbon and measure your liqueurs ahead of time, but the shaking and pouring should happen just before serving.

If batching for a gathering, mix the bourbon, amaretto, and cream ahead, then shake individual portions with egg and ice as guests arrive.

FAQs

These common questions can help you prepare Santa’s Whiskey Flip with confidence and customize it for your taste or occasion.

Is it safe to use raw egg?
Most fresh eggs are safe to use, but if concerned, choose pasteurized eggs for added safety.

Can I make a lighter version?
Yes, reduce the cream or replace part of it with milk for a softer drink.

Can I skip the cinnamon-infused bourbon?
You can use regular bourbon and add a dash of cinnamon syrup or a cinnamon stick garnish.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Not fully. You can pre-mix ingredients, but the egg must be shaken fresh for the right texture.

What glass works best?
A chilled coupe or sour glass helps show off the creamy top and keeps the drink cold.

More Cocktails to Try

If you love warm, cozy, or creamy Christmas cocktails, here are more holiday recipes that fit perfectly into winter gatherings. Each one offers a festive twist and pairs nicely with seasonal treats.

• Drunk Reindeer: A warm mix of chocolate, vodka, and whipped cream for winter nights.
• Dirty Snowman: A dessert-style drink made with ice cream and hot chocolate.
• Snowman Cocktail: A creamy white chocolate drink with a playful garnish.
• White Chocolate Eggnog Martini: A festive take on the classic holiday favorite.
• White Clausmopolitan: A crisp, elegant winter cocktail with white cranberry and citrus.