How To Make Egg White Foam For Cocktails

Egg white foam is a surefire way to up your cocktail game. It’s silky, frothy and not only elevates the visual appeal of your drinks, but also enhances the overall texture and flavour. This guide will walk you through the entire process of using egg whites in cocktails, from understanding the science behind it, to practical tips. We’ll also share some cocktails that feature this lovely addition, as well as suitable substitutions.

What Exactly is Egg White Foam?

Egg whites are a staple in many classic cocktails, such as the whiskey sour, and are known for bringing a velvety texture. You can use a nitrous canister to add an egg white foam on top of cocktails, or you can add them directly to the shaker with other ingredients to give the overall drink a unique mouthfeel.

Preparing Egg Whites for Cocktails

Fresh eggs are key; freshness is essential for creating stable, voluminous foam. Always check the expiration date and opt for organic or free-range eggs when possible.

After selecting your eggs, it is time to carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks. Crack the egg over a bowl, but before the yolk can drop in, pass it back and forth between the two halves of the shell. As you repeat this process, the whites will drip into the bowl.

Using Egg Whites in Cocktails

Crafting a velvety foam with egg whites requires dry shaking. By shaking the ingredients without ice first, you allow the egg whites’ proteins to denature and bind more effectively, resulting in a thicker, more stable foam.

First, place your preferred spirit, fresh egg whites and any other ingredients into a cocktail shaker and dry shake vigorously. Once a thick foam is achieved, add ice and shake again to chill the mixture. Finally, strain the cocktail into a glass through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining lumps or bubbles.

Substitutes for Egg Whites

Not everyone can or wants to use egg whites in their cocktails, and that's perfectly fine. Here are some excellent substitutes for achieving a similar foam texture without using egg whites:

Aquafaba: The liquid from a can of chickpeas or other legumes is a fantastic vegan alternative. It has a similar protein content to egg whites. Simply strain the liquid from a can of chickpeas and use it in place of egg whites in your cocktail recipes, starting with the same amount and adjusting as needed.

Cocktail Foamers: Looking for an easier, grab-and-go solution? You’re in luck. Nowadays, pre-packaged cocktail foamers, such as Fee Brothers Fee Foam, are available. Simply add a few dashes to your cocktail and shake away.

Tequila Cocktail Recipes with Egg White Foam

When most cocktail enthusiasts think about egg white foam cocktails, classics like the whiskey sour and gin fizz come to mind. But did you know that egg whites are just as delicious when used in tequila cocktails? In these drinks, the citrus notes of tequila are perfectly balanced by the creamy richness of egg whites, resulting in delightful harmonies of flavours and textures.

Strawberry Fields
Dessert Rose
Eau de Lavender

By mastering the art of foamy egg white magic, you can take your cocktails to new heights, transforming each sip into a moment of silky indulgence. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or an aspiring home bartender, try incorporating this simple but effective ingredient to weave elegance into every glass.

Disclaimer: Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.