What is an Egg Cream? A Deliciously Classic New York City Drink Explained!

An egg cream is a classic American drink that has been around for over a century. Despite its name, it contains neither eggs nor cream. Instead, it is made with milk, carbonated water, and flavored syrup, typically chocolate or vanilla. 

The origins of the egg cream are somewhat of a mystery, with several conflicting stories about its creation. One popular theory is that it was invented in Brooklyn in the late 1800s by a Jewish soda fountain operator named Louis Auster. Another theory suggests that the drink was originally called an “Egg and Cream” and was made with raw eggs and cream before being modified to its current form.

Regardless of its origins, the egg cream has become a beloved part of American food culture, particularly in New York City where it is still a staple in many diners and soda fountains. It is a simple yet delicious drink that is easy to make at home, making it a popular choice for those looking to recreate a taste of nostalgia.

History of Egg Cream in the United States

Egg cream is a classic American drink that has its origins in the late 19th century. While the true origin of the drink is somewhat disputed, it is generally agreed that the egg cream was created in New York City, likely by Jewish immigrants who were looking for a tasty and affordable treat.

One popular story about the creation of the egg cream is that it was invented by a candy store owner named Louis Auster in the early 1900s. According to this story, Auster was looking for a way to use up some leftover chocolate syrup and came up with the idea of mixing it with milk and soda water to create a delicious and frothy drink. The egg cream quickly became a hit among Auster’s customers and soon spread to other parts of the city.

Another theory about the origin of the egg cream is that it was created by Italian immigrants who were working in the soda fountains of New York City. These immigrants would mix chocolate syrup with seltzer water and then add a little bit of milk to create a creamy and refreshing drink. Over time, the recipe for the egg cream evolved and different variations emerged, but it remained a popular treat throughout the city.

Despite its name, the egg cream does not actually contain any eggs or cream. Instead, it is made with milk, chocolate syrup, and seltzer water. The name “egg cream” likely comes from the frothy texture of the drink, which some people thought resembled beaten eggs.

Ingredients of Egg Cream

An egg cream is a classic New York City drink that has been around since the late 19th century. Despite its name, it contains neither eggs nor cream. Instead, it is made with just three simple ingredients: milk, seltzer water, and flavored syrup.

Here’s a breakdown of each ingredient:

Milk

The milk used in an egg cream can be whole milk, skim milk, or any other type of milk. It is typically cold, as the drink is served chilled. Some recipes call for the milk to be frothed or whipped before being added to the glass, while others simply pour it in as is.

Seltzer Water

The seltzer water used in an egg cream is what gives the drink its signature fizziness. It is important to use cold seltzer water, as warm seltzer will not produce the same effect. The seltzer is typically added to the glass last, after the milk and flavored syrup have been added.

Flavored Syrup

The flavored syrup used in an egg cream is what gives the drink its unique taste. Chocolate syrup is the most common flavor, but vanilla and other flavors can also be used. The syrup is typically added to the bottom of the glass before the milk is poured in, so that it mixes well with the milk when the two are stirred together.

Overall, an egg cream is a simple but delicious drink that can be enjoyed any time of day. Its classic flavor and fizzy texture make it a favorite among New Yorkers and visitors alike.

How to Make an Egg Cream

Making an egg cream is a simple process that requires only a few ingredients. Traditionally, an egg cream is made with milk, seltzer water, and chocolate syrup. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make an egg cream:

1. Pour 3 tablespoons of chocolate syrup and 1/4 cup of milk or half-and-half into a 16-ounce glass.
2. While beating vigorously with a fork, slowly add club soda until the glass is almost full.
3. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top if desired.
4. Stir and enjoy!

It’s important to note that using plain seltzer water is essential to achieving the classic taste of an egg cream.

Note: Club soda or sparkling mineral water can alter the flavor of the beverage. Additionally, using a high-quality chocolate syrup will make all the difference in the taste of the egg cream.

Experimenting with different flavors of syrup, such as vanilla or strawberry, can also add a unique twist to the traditional egg cream recipe. However, purists may argue that any variation from the classic chocolate egg cream is sacrilege.

Overall, making an egg cream is a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic New York beverage. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of elbow grease, anyone can recreate this iconic drink in the comfort of their own home.

This image, which is from 1893, is from a magazine for drug store owners that explains how to make an egg cream at the soda fountain!

The Most Popular Egg Cream Flavors

Just like with ice cream, the two most popular flavors by far are chocolate and vanilla.

Chocolate Egg Cream

Chocolate is the most popular flavor for egg creams. The chocolate syrup used in an egg cream is typically Fox’s U-Bet chocolate flavor syrup. The syrup is mixed with milk and carbonated water to create a frothy, chocolatey drink that is both sweet and refreshing. The chocolate egg cream is a classic New York City beverage that has been around since the early 1900s.

Vanilla Egg Cream

While chocolate is the most popular flavor, vanilla egg creams are also enjoyed by many. To make a vanilla egg cream, vanilla syrup is used instead of chocolate syrup. The rest of the recipe remains the same: milk, carbonated water, and syrup. The vanilla flavor adds a subtle sweetness to the drink that is perfect for those who prefer a less intense flavor than chocolate. Overall, the egg cream is a classic beverage that has been enjoyed for over a century. While chocolate and vanilla are the most popular flavors, there are many variations that can be made with different flavored syrups.

Where to Find Egg Creams

While egg creams may have originated in New York City, they can now be found in various places around the United States. In New York, egg creams can still be found at classic soda fountains and candy shops, as well as at some modern cafes and restaurants.

Outside of New York, egg creams can be harder to come by, but they can still be found at some Jewish delis and restaurants that specialize in classic American fare. Some specialty soda shops and ice cream parlors may also serve egg creams.

For those who can’t find an egg cream in their area, it’s possible to make one at home with just a few ingredients. Many recipes can be found online or in classic cookbooks.

Today, the egg cream remains a beloved drink in New York City and beyond. While it is not as widely available as it once was, you can still find it at some classic soda fountains and diners throughout the city. Whether you prefer the classic version or a more modern twist, the egg cream is a delicious and refreshing treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Egg Cream Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do they call it an egg cream?

An egg cream is a classic American beverage that originated in the late 19th century and was popular at the diner counter and also at Jewish Delis. Despite its name, it does not contain any eggs or cream. The drink is made by mixing chocolate syrup, milk, and seltzer water. The origin of the name “egg cream” is not entirely clear, but there are a few theories. One theory is that the name comes from the frothy, creamy texture of the drink, which some people thought resembled beaten eggs. Another theory is that the name is a corruption of the Yiddish word “echt krim,” which means “real cream.” Regardless of its origins, the egg cream remains a beloved classic in American soda fountain culture.

What does egg cream taste like?

An egg cream is a sweet and bubbly drink that has a unique flavor – it is creamy and frothy but not as thick as a milkshake. The chocolate syrup gives it a sweet and chocolaty taste, while the seltzer water adds a refreshing fizziness. The milk adds a creamy and smooth texture to the drink. Personally I would describe it as halfway between a regular soda and a milkshake.

Is an egg cream the same as cream soda?

No, an egg cream is not the same as cream soda. While both are sweet and bubbly drinks, they have different ingredients and flavors. An egg cream is made with chocolate syrup, milk, and seltzer water, while cream soda is typically made with vanilla flavoring and carbonated water. Cream soda also often contains additional sweeteners and flavors such as caramel or fruit extracts. Additionally, cream soda has a creamier and smoother texture than an egg cream. So, while they may share some similarities, they are distinct beverages with different flavors and ingredients.

Image Credits:

Lucky dog, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

egg cream ingredients: Jason Perlow, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons