Amaretto Sour

DifficultyBeginner

Discover the ultimate Amaretto Sour cocktail recipe made with real lemon juice, amaretto liqueur, and a touch of bourbon for balance. A silky, almond-sweet classic with a citrusy punch — perfect for dessert pairings or cozy evening sipping.

SharePostSaveThreads
Amaretto Sour
Yields1 Serving
Prep Time4 minsTotal Time4 mins
 1 ½ oz Amaretto liqueur (e.g., Disaronno)
 ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
 ¼ oz simple syrup (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
 ½ oz (optional but highly recommended for structure)
 ½ oz egg white (or aquafaba for vegan version)
 Ice (for shaking)
 Garnish: Lemon wheel, maraschino cherry
1
  1. Add amaretto, lemon juice, simple syrup (if using), bourbon, and egg white to a shaker without ice.

  2. Dry shake (shake without ice) vigorously for 15 seconds to build a silky foam.

  3. Add ice and shake again for another 15 seconds to chill and dilute.

  4. Double strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.

  5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry.

Pairing Suggestions
2
  • Toasted almond cake or biscotti

  • Dark chocolate mousse

  • Blue cheese-stuffed dates

  • Prosciutto-wrapped figs

  • Roasted nuts or spiced almonds

 

Its sweet almond profile and citrus acidity pair perfectly with nutty, salty, or chocolatey snacks.

Tips & Notes
3
  • Adding bourbon helps balance the sweetness of amaretto and adds depth.

  • Egg white (or aquafaba) creates that classic velvety texture and frothy top.

  • If you prefer a tarter drink, reduce or skip the simple syrup.

  • For a modern twist, use black walnut bitters for a richer, woodsy edge.

  • Want it fizzy? Top with soda water for an Amaretto Sour highball.

Side Info
4

The Amaretto Sour became popular in the 1970s but was often made overly sweet with sour mix. Modern craft bartenders brought it back to life with real citrus, optional bourbon, and fresh egg white for texture — transforming it into a true cocktail gem.

Ingredients

 1 ½ oz Amaretto liqueur (e.g., Disaronno)
 ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
 ¼ oz simple syrup (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
 ½ oz (optional but highly recommended for structure)
 ½ oz egg white (or aquafaba for vegan version)
 Ice (for shaking)
 Garnish: Lemon wheel, maraschino cherry
Amaretto Sour