Egg Cream

The Egg Cream is a classic New York City beverage that combines milk, seltzer, and chocolate syrup, creating a creamy, effervescent treat without any actual egg or cream.

5 min
Easy
Coffee mug
3 ingredients

Hero bottle: Chocolate syrup →

Ingredients

Chocolate syrup2 tblsp
Milk6 oz whole
Soda water6 oz

Method

Mix syrup and milk in a fountain glass.
Add soda water, serve with a straw.

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What you need

Nothing fancy. Here is what to look for. We earn a small cut if you buy through these links, at no cost to you.

A double jigger

Marked in oz and ml, with lines inside for the small measures.

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The hero bottle

See 5 Chocolate syrup drinks

Where it comes from

The Egg Cream is an iconic Brooklyn beverage that originated in Jewish candy shops and soda fountains of the 19th century, becoming a symbol of old New York culture. Despite its misleading name, the traditional drink contains neither eggs nor cream, instead featuring a mysterious blend of ingredients that locals have debated for generations.

Tips from the bar

Use real chocolate syrup or Fox's U-Bet syrup for authentic flavor
the order of ingredients matters - add syrup first, then milk, then seltzer in quick succession
use a long spoon to mix quickly and create the signature foam head
serve immediately in a tall glass while still fizzy

Twists worth trying

Vanilla Egg Cream: Uses vanilla syrup instead of chocolate for lighter, creamier flavor
Strawberry Egg Cream: Substitutes strawberry syrup for fruity sweetness
Spiked Egg Cream: Adds a splash of bourbon or brandy for adult version
Modern Egg Cream: Contemporary version using artisanal syrups and quality ingredients