Amaretto SourCocktail recipe
Rating
The Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail known for its balance of sweet and tangy flavors, predominantly featuring the rich and almond-like notes of amaretto, a popular Italian liqueur. The acidity of fresh lemon juice cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing zing.
This cocktail is typically served in a whisky glass, underscored by the smooth texture created by the addition of egg white, which lends a frothy, creamy top layer. The addition of a few dashes of Angostura bitters contributes depth and complexity to the drink.
Often garnished with a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry, the Amaretto Sour is both visually appealing and a beloved choice for those who prefer a sweeter cocktail with a sour edge.
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Cocktail Colin says:
The Amaretto Sour masterfully marries the lush sweetness of amaretto with the crisp zing of lemon juice, creating a harmoniously balanced libation. The addition of egg white provides a luxuriously silky texture that enhances the drinking experience, while a dash of Angostura bitters deepens the flavor profile, adding a subtle spice that beautifully complements the almond notes.
Method
How to make a Amaretto Sour
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- Add the amaretto, lemon juice, egg white and bitters to a cocktail shaker together with ice
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- Shake until the outside of the shaker is frosted, then strain into an old fashioned glass with ice
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- Garnish with a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- Dry-shake the cocktail (shake without ice) first to fully emulsify the egg white with the other ingredients. Then, shake again with ice to chill and dilute properly.
- Consider using a premium or handcrafted amaretto. The enhanced almond and vanilla notes will bring more depth and complexity to the cocktail.
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Your private tasting notes
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FAQ's
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What is the origin of the Amaretto Sour?
The Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail that originated in the United States during the 1970s. It became popular as part of the larger sour family of cocktails, which are made with a base liquor, lemon or lime juice, and a sweetener.
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Can I make an Amaretto Sour without egg white?
Yes, you can make an Amaretto Sour without egg white, though the egg white contributes to the drink's creamy texture and frothy top. A common alternative is to use a few drops of aquafaba (chickpea brine) as a vegan-friendly substitute, or you can simply omit it for a less frothy but still delicious cocktail.
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What type of Amaretto should I use for an Amaretto Sour?
Any good-quality Amaretto can be used to make an Amaretto Sour. Disaronno, being one of the most popular brands, is a common choice for its rich almond flavor despite being almond-free. However, exploring other brands may introduce slight variations in taste, which could personalize your cocktail.
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How does the alcohol content of an Amaretto Sour compare to other cocktails?
With an alcohol content of approximately 16%, the Amaretto Sour is considered a moderately strong cocktail. This is slightly less alcoholic than cocktails like the Margarita or Martini but stronger than light cocktails such as the Mimosa or Pimm's Cup.
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Is the Amaretto Sour suitable for all occasions?
The Amaretto Sour is a versatile cocktail that suits a wide range of occasions, from casual get-togethers to more formal events. Its sweet and sour profile makes it a great aperitif, and its elegance and simplicity make it fitting for sophisticated dinners. However, personal preference and the context of the event should guide its suitability.
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Comments
Just whipped this up, and it was a delightful suprise! I used a fresh lemon to really enhance that tang. The egg white added a lovely frothy texture. Be sure to balance the bitters to your taste. Definitely a great mix of flavors, and looks beautiful too!
One of our favorites! Reminds me of licorice for some reason. M - 9/10 H - 9/10
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