Amaretto, a sweet Italian liqueur with almond flavor, adds warmth and depth to many cocktails. This versatile spirit pairs well with various mixers, from fruit juices to coffee and cream.
You’ll discover both classic recipes and creative new drinks that showcase amaretto’s distinctive nutty taste.
Whether you prefer something strong like the Godfather (with scotch) or something creamy like the Toasted Almond, there’s an amaretto cocktail for every taste. From the popular Amaretto Sour to the lesser-known Bocce Ball, these drinks offer a range of flavors that work well for casual gatherings or special occasions.
1. Amaretto Sour
The Amaretto Sour stands as the most iconic amaretto cocktail. This drink perfectly balances the sweet almond flavor of amaretto with fresh lemon juice.
Jeffrey Morgenthaler’s version adds bourbon to give the cocktail more depth and complexity. The high-proof bourbon cuts through the sweetness and adds a pleasant kick.
Adding an egg white creates a silky texture and frothy top. This ingredient isn’t essential but elevates the drink considerably.
For the best results, use fresh lemon juice rather than pre-packaged sour mix. You’ll taste the difference immediately.
2. Godfather Cocktail
The Godfather cocktail is a simple yet sophisticated drink that combines scotch whisky and amaretto. Its name comes from the famous movie series, and it’s known for its smooth, slightly sweet flavor profile.
To make a classic Godfather, you’ll need just two ingredients: scotch and amaretto liqueur. The traditional ratio is 2 parts scotch to 1 part amaretto, but you can adjust this to your taste preference.
Some modern versions add a couple dashes of Angostura bitters to balance the sweetness. You can also try variations like the Godmother (made with vodka instead of scotch) or make it smoky by using peated scotch.
Serve it in a rocks glass over ice for a perfect after-dinner sipper.
3. Amaretto Apple Cider
Amaretto Apple Cider is a perfect fall cocktail that combines sweet almond liqueur with the crisp taste of apple cider. This simple yet sophisticated drink brings together two complementary flavors.
To make this drink, pour amaretto into a glass and add apple cider. Stir with a cinnamon stick and leave it in as a garnish. You can also add an apple slice for decoration.
This cocktail works well for chilly evenings and fall gatherings. The warmth of the amaretto pairs naturally with the seasonal flavor of apple cider.
For variation, some recipes include bourbon or lemon juice to create an Apple Cider Amaretto Sour.
4. Amaretto Margarita
The Amaretto Margarita, also known as an Italian Margarita, puts a nutty twist on the classic cocktail. It combines tequila with amaretto almond liqueur instead of the traditional triple sec or Cointreau.
This simple cocktail requires just four main ingredients: tequila, amaretto, lime juice, and orange juice. Some recipes also include sweet and sour mix for added flavor.
You can serve this drink on the rocks with a sugar rim instead of the traditional salt. Añejo tequila works particularly well in this cocktail since its natural almond notes complement the amaretto perfectly.
The combination creates a slightly sweeter margarita with a distinctive almond flavor that you’ll enjoy as an interesting variation on the classic version.
5. Toasted Almond
The Toasted Almond cocktail brings together amaretto and coffee liqueur in a delightful combination. This creamy drink is perfect for after dinner enjoyment.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need amaretto, coffee liqueur like Kahlúa, and cream or milk. The sweet almond flavor pairs wonderfully with the rich coffee notes.
This drink is simple to prepare but offers complex flavors. The amaretto adds a nutty sweetness while the coffee liqueur provides depth.
Try serving it in a chilled glass for the best experience. You can garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.
6. French Connection
The French Connection is a simple yet elegant cocktail that pairs cognac with amaretto. This two-ingredient drink combines the rich, grape-based French brandy with the sweet almond flavor of the Italian liqueur.
To make this cocktail, mix one and a half ounces of cognac with one ounce of amaretto. The result is a delicious, somewhat sweet drink that’s best enjoyed when using high-quality spirits.
You can serve it over ice in a rocks glass for a relaxing sipping experience. Some variations include adding coffee and topping with honey whipped cream for a warm version.
The drink gets its name from the famous movie of the same title, adding a bit of cultural flair to your cocktail experience.
7. Godmother
The Godmother is a simple yet elegant cocktail made with just two ingredients: vodka and amaretto. You can make this drink in minutes with minimal effort.
To prepare a Godmother, mix 90ml (1.5 ounces) of vodka with 30ml (1 ounce) of amaretto. Stir the ingredients together and pour over ice.
This cocktail is perfect for when you want something easy but flavorful. The amaretto adds a pleasant almond sweetness that balances the vodka nicely.
You can garnish with a cherry or orange slice if you wish, but a Godmother is traditionally served without garnish. It’s a straightforward drink that lets the quality of your spirits shine through.
8. Disaronno and Coke
Disaronno and Coke is a simple yet delicious cocktail that highlights the almond flavor of amaretto. This drink is often called a “Dirty Dr Pepper” in some regions.
To make this cocktail, just pour 1 oz of Disaronno over ice in a highball glass and top with cola. The sweetness of the amaretto blends perfectly with the caramel notes in the cola.
For a variation, you can add 1 oz of cinnamon liqueur like Fireball or Goldschlager to create a spicier version. Some people even add a splash of beer for extra complexity.
This cocktail is perfect for those new to amaretto drinks because of its familiar taste and easy preparation.
9. Amaretto Hot Chocolate
Amaretto hot chocolate combines the warmth of chocolate with the sweet almond flavor of amaretto liqueur. This drink comes together in under 15 minutes with just a few ingredients.
To make it, prepare your hot chocolate as usual, then add a shot of amaretto. The typical ratio is about 1-2 ounces of amaretto per cup of hot chocolate, but you can adjust to your taste.
Top your drink with whipped cream for extra indulgence. Some recipes also include salted caramel for added flavor complexity.
This spiked hot chocolate is perfect for cold winter evenings or holiday gatherings. It offers a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy the classic combination of chocolate and almonds.
10. Amaretto Coffee
Amaretto coffee is a perfect after-dinner drink that combines the nutty sweetness of amaretto with the rich flavor of coffee. This warm cocktail is simple to make but delivers impressive results.
To prepare it, brew a cup of strong coffee and add 1-2 ounces of amaretto liqueur. For a creamier version, top with whipped cream or a splash of heavy cream.
Some variations include adding Baileys Irish Cream for extra richness or serving it over a scoop of chocolate ice cream. You can also rim your mug with caramel for a decorative touch that adds sweetness.
This cocktail is especially comforting during fall and winter months when you need a warm, soothing drink.
11. Bocce Ball
The Bocce Ball is a refreshing cocktail that combines vodka, amaretto, orange juice, and a splash of soda water. This drink is similar to a Screwdriver but with an almond twist.
To make a Bocce Ball, you’ll need 1.5 ounces of vodka, 0.5 ounces of amaretto liqueur, 5 ounces of orange juice, and a splash of soda water. Combine these ingredients in a glass over ice.
The drink showcases how well almond and citrus flavors work together. The amaretto adds a sweet nuttiness while the orange juice keeps it juicy and refreshing.
Garnish your Bocce Ball with an orange slice for a perfect finishing touch. It’s a tall, fun cocktail that’s easy to make for any occasion.
12. Nocino Sour
Nocino is a traditional Italian liqueur made from unripe, green walnuts. It has a mellow, earthy flavor that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
The Nocino Sour combines this unique walnut liqueur with rye whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white. The egg white creates a rich, frothy texture that makes this cocktail special.
You can experiment with different varieties of Nocino, including homemade versions with cardamom. Some bartenders pair Nocino with Jamaican rum, earl grey syrup, and lime for a different take on this versatile liqueur.
Served on the rocks, the Nocino Sour offers a complex flavor profile that’s both refreshing and sophisticated.
13. Sneaky Pete
The Sneaky Pete is a creative twist on the classic Godfather cocktail. It combines cherry-infused Scotch whisky with amaretto liqueur for a complex flavor profile.
This drink gets its depth from the addition of Angostura bitters, which balance the sweetness of the amaretto. The combination creates a smooth, sophisticated sip that’s perfect for relaxing evenings.
You can customize your Sneaky Pete by adjusting the ratio of Scotch to amaretto. More Scotch creates a drier cocktail, while more amaretto adds sweetness.
Serve this cocktail in a rocks glass over ice and garnish with a cherry for a complete experience.
14. Edna’s Lunchbox
The Lunchbox is a beloved cocktail created at Edna’s in Oklahoma City in the late 1990s. This simple yet surprisingly delicious drink combines just three ingredients: orange juice, light beer (typically Coors Light), and amaretto.
To make this refreshing cocktail, mix equal parts of orange juice and beer, then add a shot of sweet amaretto liqueur. The combination might sound unusual, but it creates a balanced drink that’s become a local favorite.
Always served in a chilled mug at Edna’s, this drink has become a rite of passage in Oklahoma City. You can easily recreate this cocktail at home when you want something refreshing and unique.
15. Guava Goddess
The Guava Goddess offers a tropical twist to the amaretto experience. This refreshing cocktail combines the nutty sweetness of amaretto with fruity guava juice for a delightful flavor pairing.
To make this drink, you’ll need orgeat, lime juice, guava juice, Aperol, tequila, and water. The orgeat syrup complements the almond notes in amaretto perfectly.
Mix these ingredients together and serve over ice. For an elegant presentation, garnish with dehydrated lime wheels.
This cocktail is perfect for summer gatherings or when you want a taste of the tropics with your amaretto.
16. Amaretto Iced Tea
Amaretto Iced Tea offers a refreshing twist on the classic Long Island Iced Tea. This cocktail combines the sweet almond flavor of amaretto with brewed tea for a delightful summer drink.
To make this cocktail, brew some strong black tea and let it cool. Mix 1.5 oz of amaretto with the cooled tea, add a splash of lemon juice, and sweeten to taste with simple syrup.
Serve your Amaretto Iced Tea in a tall glass over ice. Garnish with a lemon wheel or mint sprig for a visually appealing finish. You can adjust the strength by adding more or less tea to suit your preference.
17. Midnight Amaretto Sour
The Midnight Amaretto Sour is a darker twist on the classic amaretto sour. It combines amaretto with a high-proof bourbon for extra punch and depth.
This cocktail adds activated charcoal to give it a dramatic black color, making it perfect for evening gatherings or Halloween parties. The inky appearance contrasts beautifully with the citrus garnish.
To make this drink, shake 1½ oz amaretto, ¾ oz bourbon, 1 oz lemon juice, ½ oz simple syrup, and a small amount of food-grade activated charcoal with ice. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
You can garnish with a lemon wheel or orange slice for a striking visual contrast against the dark cocktail.
18. Amaretto Creamsicle
The Amaretto Creamsicle is a delightful dessert cocktail that brings back childhood memories with an adult twist. This creamy drink combines the nutty almond flavor of amaretto with the bright, citrusy taste of orange.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need amaretto liqueur, vanilla vodka, orange juice, and a splash of cream or half-and-half. Shake all ingredients with ice until well-chilled.
Serve in a rocks glass over fresh ice for best results. You can garnish with an orange slice or sprinkle with grated nutmeg for an extra touch of flavor.
This sweet, creamy drink works perfectly as an after-dinner treat or a relaxing evening sipper.
19. Amaretto Spritz
The Amaretto Spritz is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian spritz cocktail. It combines nutty amaretto liqueur with sparkling wine for a delightful balance of sweet and bubbly.
To make this cocktail, mix 1 ounce of amaretto with a splash of fresh lemon juice and orange juice. Pour into a wine glass filled with ice, then top with prosecco or your favorite sparkling wine.
For extra flair, garnish with an orange slice or lemon twist. This light and effervescent drink works well for brunch gatherings or summer evenings on the patio.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less amaretto to suit your taste preferences.
20. Amaretto Colada
The Amaretto Colada offers a delightful twist on the classic Piña Colada by adding rich almond-flavored amaretto liqueur. This tropical cocktail combines the best of both worlds.
To make an Amaretto Colada, fill a blender with ice cubes and add amaretto, coconut cream, and pineapple juice. Blend until smooth and pour into a cocktail glass.
Garnish your drink with a pineapple wedge for that perfect tropical touch. The result is a creamy, nutty cocktail with tropical flavors that’s perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you want a taste of paradise.
21. DIY Amaretto
You can make your own amaretto at home with just a few ingredients. This homemade version costs less than store-bought bottles and makes a great gift for friends.
Start with vodka as your base, then add toasted almonds, vanilla extract, and brown sugar. Some recipes include apricot pits for authentic flavor.
Let your mixture steep for about two weeks, shaking it every few days. After straining, your homemade amaretto is ready to use in all your favorite cocktails.
The DIY version lets you control the sweetness and almond intensity. You might find you prefer your homemade version to commercial brands.
History of Amaretto
Amaretto has a rich heritage dating back several centuries in Italy. This sweet, almond-flavored liqueur has evolved from local specialty to global favorite while maintaining its distinctive character and Italian roots.
Origins and Evolution
Amaretto’s story began in 1525 in Saronno, a small Italian comune. Legend tells of a local widow who created the original recipe for a visiting painter. She infused the drink with apricot kernels, giving it the distinctive almond-like flavor we recognize today.
The Lazzaroni family is credited with the artisanal production of early amaretto. They developed and refined the recipe, establishing traditions that would influence amaretto production for centuries to come.
The name “amaretto” translates to “a little bitter” in Italian, referring to the slight bitterness beneath its predominantly sweet flavor profile. Despite its name suggesting bitterness, the liqueur became beloved for its perfect balance of sweet and subtle bitter notes.
Cultural Significance
Amaretto holds an important place in Italian cultural heritage, particularly in the Saronno region where it originated. You can see its influence throughout Italian culinary traditions, from tiramisu to countless other desserts.
The liqueur gained international popularity during the mid-20th century. As Italian cuisine spread globally, amaretto followed, becoming a staple in bars worldwide.
Amaretto cocktails like the Alabama Slammer emerged in the 1970s and 1980s, though these sweet concoctions are now often considered dated. Today, mixologists have rediscovered amaretto, creating sophisticated cocktails that highlight its complex flavor profile.
Modern pairings include matching amaretto with aged spirits like añejo tequila, which naturally complement the liqueur’s almond notes. This renaissance showcases amaretto’s versatility and enduring appeal across generations.
Understanding Amaretto
Amaretto is a sweet Italian liqueur with a rich history dating back several centuries. This almond-flavored spirit serves as the foundation for many delicious cocktails due to its distinctive taste and versatility.
Key Ingredients
Amaretto traditionally contains almonds or apricot pits, which provide its signature flavor. Despite its name meaning “a little bitter” in Italian, most commercial amarettos today are quite sweet.
The original recipe from Disaronno, one of the most famous brands, uses apricot kernel oil rather than almonds. This gives it a distinctive taste while remaining safe for those with nut allergies.
Most amaretto contains about 21-28% alcohol by volume (ABV), making it milder than many spirits. This lower alcohol content lets you enjoy its flavor without overwhelming your cocktails.
Quality amaretto uses natural ingredients rather than artificial flavorings. When shopping, look for brands that specify their use of real almonds or apricot kernels.
Flavor Profile
Amaretto offers a complex sweetness with distinct almond notes as its primary characteristic. You’ll notice vanilla undertones and sometimes hints of cherry when sipping it neat.
The liqueur balances sweetness with subtle bitterness, creating depth that simple syrups can’t match. This complexity makes it excellent for cocktails that need dimensional sweetness.
When mixed with citrus juices like lemon or orange, amaretto’s nuttiness becomes more pronounced. This contrasting flavor pairing explains why the Amaretto Sour remains so popular.
Amaretto pairs exceptionally well with dark spirits, especially whiskey and brandy. The nutty sweetness complements the oakiness of aged spirits, creating balanced, sophisticated drinks.
You’ll find amaretto works in both refreshing summer cocktails and warming winter drinks, making it a year-round staple for your home bar.
Mixology Techniques
Making great amaretto cocktails requires skill in balancing flavors and selecting the right companion spirits. The sweet almond liqueur can easily overwhelm a drink if not handled properly.
Balancing Sweetness
Amaretto’s intense sweetness needs careful balancing in cocktails. Fresh citrus juice, particularly lemon, works wonderfully as a counterpoint. For an Amaretto Sour, use a 2:1 ratio of amaretto to lemon juice as your starting point.
Adding egg whites creates a silky texture while tempering sweetness. Remember to dry shake ingredients with egg white first, then shake again with ice for proper emulsification.
Bitters also help cut through amaretto’s sweetness. Try 2-3 dashes of orange or aromatic bitters in your next Godfather cocktail.
For lower-sugar options, use less amaretto and complement with unsweetened ingredients like strong coffee, dry vermouth, or high-proof bourbon.
Choosing Complementary Spirits
Amaretto pairs exceptionally well with brown spirits. Bourbon and amaretto create a perfect balance. Bourbon’s vanilla and caramel notes enhance amaretto’s almond character. Try a 2:1 ratio of bourbon to amaretto for a balanced flavor profile.
Aged rum offers tropical fruit notes that blend beautifully with amaretto’s nuttiness. For a simple but delicious drink, mix 1½ oz aged rum with ½ oz amaretto over ice.
Añejo tequila, with its natural almond undertones, makes an excellent partner. The agave’s earthy quality provides depth while amaretto adds sweetness.
Avoid overly botanical spirits like heavily flavored gins, as they can clash with amaretto’s distinctive profile.
