Searching for that magical combination of bright citrus, velvety texture, and effervescent finish? The classic Gin Fizz delivers all this and more. We’ve spent years perfecting this recipe to achieve that signature silky smooth texture and pristine foam cap that defines this pre-Prohibition era cocktail. Our step-by-step guide will help you master this timeless drink, from the proper shake technique to achieving that perfect, pillowy head that sets this one apart.
Watch 🎥: How to make a Gin Fiz
What Is a Gin Fizz Cocktail?
The Gin Fizz is a refined cocktail that combines gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white, topped with soda water. Dating back to the 1880s, it was first documented in Jerry Thomas’s Bartending Guide and became the drink of choice for New Orleans’ sophisticated crowd. The key signature? That luxurious, cloud-like foam top that creates a drinking experience unlike any other cocktail.
What you’ll love about this recipe:
What You Need to Make a Gin Fizz Cocktail
How to Make a Gin Fizz Cocktail
- Combine gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white in a shaker. Perform a “dry shake” without ice for 30 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for another 15 seconds to chill and dilute properly.
- Strain into a chilled Collins glass, wait for the foam to settle slightly, then top with soda water. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Expert Recipe Tips
- Tip 1: Store your eggs at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing for optimal foam.
- Tip 2: Use fresh citrus juice – bottled lemon juice won’t deliver the same bright flavors.
- Tip 3: When adding soda water, pour slowly down the side of the glass to preserve the foam cap.
How to Serve This Gin Fizz Cocktail
Serve in a chilled Collins glass with a delicate lemon twist. The presentation should showcase the distinct layers: crystal clear cocktail at the bottom, graduating to that characteristic cloudy white foam cap on top.
More Cocktail Recipes
Love this classic? Explore our collection of egg white cocktails, including the Ramos Gin Fizz and Whiskey Sour, or discover more gin-based classics in our Gin Cocktail Archives.
Gin Fizz Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Soda water too top
Instructions
- Add the gin, lemon juice, egg white and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker and shake for 30
- seconds.
- Add ice and shake for another 15 seconds.
- Strain into a tall glass and top with soda water and a lemon twist.
Video
Recipe FAQs
While aquafaba (chickpea water) can be substituted, we recommend using fresh egg whites for the best texture and foam quality.
A classic London Dry style gin provides the ideal botanical backbone – we recommend Hendricks or Tanqueray for their versatility and price point.
The key to thick foam is a proper dry shake – ensure you’re shaking vigorously for the full 30 seconds before adding ice.
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