Pillow Talk Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Pillow Talk recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Cognac
Alcohol 20%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 17g
Prep time 4 minutes

Dreaming of making the perfect Pillow Talk cocktail? This refreshing drink is a delightful blend of flavors that will transport you to a world of relaxation and enjoyment. In this article, we’ll dive into the history, flavor profile, ingredients, and even some fun facts about the Pillow Talk. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let’s get started! ⬇️

History

The Pillow Talk cocktail was created in the 1990s by a talented mixologist in New York City. It quickly gained popularity for its unique combination of ingredients and its refreshing taste. Today, it remains a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.

  • The name “Pillow Talk” was inspired by the intimate and cozy conversations often had late at night.
  • It was first served at a trendy New York City bar known for its innovative cocktails.
  • The drink became a symbol of sophistication and relaxation in the cocktail world.

The taste of a Pillow Talk?

Pillow Talk tastes like a refreshing blend of citrus and floral notes with a hint of sweetness. It’s a perfect balance of flavors that leaves you feeling relaxed and satisfied.

I personally love drinking Pillow Talks because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Interesting facts about Pillow Talk

  • The Pillow Talk cocktail is often garnished with a delicate flower, adding to its visual appeal.
  • It’s a popular choice for romantic occasions and intimate gatherings.
  • The drink’s vibrant color comes from the fresh fruit juices used in its preparation.

Ingredients 📃

  • Gin: 1.5 oz (45ml)
  • St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur: 0.5 oz (15ml)
  • Fresh lemon juice: 0.75 oz (22ml)
  • Simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
  • Egg white: 1
  • Ice: As needed
  • Lemon twist: For garnish

A Pillow Talk is best served in a **coupe glass**, which enhances the presentation and allows the aromas to be fully appreciated. Alternatively, a **martini glass** can also be used for a similar effect.

Recipe. How to make Pillow Talk 🍹

  1. In a shaker, combine gin *1.5 oz (45ml)*, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur *0.5 oz (15ml)*, fresh lemon juice *0.75 oz (22ml)*, simple syrup *0.5 oz (15ml)*, and egg white *1*.
  2. Dry shake (without ice) for 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
  3. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for another 15-20 seconds.
  4. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
  5. Garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.

While the Pillow Talk is a delightful treat, it’s important to be mindful of its sugar and calorie content. For a healthier version, consider using natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, and enjoy the refreshing benefits of the citrus and floral ingredients.

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Food Pairings

Certain foods complement the flavors of a Pillow Talk perfectly.

Light Salads

The refreshing and citrusy notes of a Pillow Talk pair wonderfully with light salads, especially those with a touch of fruit or a citrus dressing.

Seafood

The floral and citrus flavors of the cocktail enhance the delicate taste of seafood dishes like shrimp, scallops, or ceviche.

Fruit Desserts

A fruit tart or sorbet complements the sweet and tangy elements of the Pillow Talk, making for a delightful end to any meal.

I really enjoy the taste of Pillow Talks—the cool citrus and floral notes make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.


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Bartender Advice

  • *Use fresh ingredients* for the best flavor.
  • *Dry shake* the ingredients to properly emulsify the egg white.
  • *Double strain* to ensure a smooth, silky texture.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Pillow Talk, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Pillow Talk

  • Gin: Can be replaced with vodka for a different base flavor.
  • Simple syrup: Use agave syrup for a natural sweetness.
  • Fresh lemon juice: Substitute with lime juice for a tangier twist.

Pillow Talk Variations

Berry Pillow Talk

  • Ingredients: Add fresh berries to the shaker.
  • Recipe: Muddle the berries before adding other ingredients.

Tropical Pillow Talk

  • Ingredients: Use coconut rum instead of gin.
  • Recipe: Follow the same steps, but shake with coconut rum.

Spicy Pillow Talk

  • Ingredients: Add a dash of chili pepper or spicy syrup.
  • Recipe: Add the spice to the shaker with other ingredients.

For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the gin and elderflower liqueur. Replace them with a splash of elderflower syrup and extra lemon juice for a refreshing mocktail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Pillow Talk unique?

The Pillow Talk’s unique blend of gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh citrus flavors create a refreshing and sophisticated cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I make a vegan version of Pillow Talk?

Yes, you can replace the egg white with aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) to achieve a similar frothy texture.

What’s the best way to garnish a Pillow Talk?

A lemon twist or a delicate edible flower makes for a beautiful and aromatic garnish that enhances the drink’s presentation.

Is there a lower-calorie version of Pillow Talk?

You can reduce the calorie content by using a natural sweetener like agave syrup and ensuring you use fresh, low-calorie ingredients.

Can I make Pillow Talk in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the liquid ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. Shake with ice just before serving.

What other cocktails are similar to Pillow Talk?

If you enjoy Pillow Talk, you might also like cocktails like the French 75, Bee’s Knees, or Aviation, which share some similar flavor profiles and ingredients.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

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