Snowball is a beloved retro drink that combines smooth, golden Advocaat with zesty citrus and sparkling lemonade. The result? A sweet, creamy and refreshing cocktail that works just as well for summer evenings as it does for festive holiday gatherings.
What is Advocaat?
Advocaat is a traditional Dutch liqueur made from egg yolk, sugar, and alcohol (usually brandy or jenever). It has a thick, custard-like consistency and a soft, sweet flavor reminiscent of eggnog. The name is believed to come from the Dutch word for “lawyer” – supposedly because it was a drink to sip slowly in thoughtful company. Advocaat is often enjoyed as a digestif, in desserts, or in cocktails – and it’s so thick that it’s sometimes served with a spoon.
Recipe: Snowball with Advocaat (1 serving)
Ingredients:
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5 cl Advocaat
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1 cl lemon or lime juice
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10–15 cl lemonade (e.g. Sprite or 7Up)
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Ice
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Optional: cocktail cherry for garnish (placed beside the glass)
Instructions:
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Fill a glass with ice.
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Add the Advocaat and lemon or lime juice.
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Stir gently – do not shake or whisk.
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Top with lemonade.
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Garnish with a cherry beside the glass and serve immediately.
Tips / Things to keep in mind:
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Do not shake the drink. Shaking with citrus may cause the Advocaat to curdle.
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Use a small amount of citrus juice. 1 cl is enough – more could destabilize the texture.
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Stir gently. Avoid aggressive mixing to keep it smooth.
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Use chilled ingredients. Cold lemonade and ice help maintain consistency.
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Homemade Advocaat is more sensitive. Be extra gentle when using homemade liqueur.
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Worried about curdling? Skip the citrus juice and mix Advocaat with lemonade only.
Serving suggestions:
The Snowball looks extra festive in a coupe or retro-style glass. Add a cherry placed next to the glass for a vintage vibe, and consider serving it with a colorful straw or stirrer for fun flair.
Curious to try Advocaat in other ways? It’s also great in baking, on ice cream, in tiramisu – or simply served on its own with a dollop of whipped cream.