Although it may not be as popular or commonly used as rum, vodka or whiskey, amaretto’s nutty flavour offers a unique and delicious base for cocktails. Amaretto is Italy’s most well-known and highest-selling liqueur. Not only is it a tasty spirit to enjoy on the rocks, but it’s also the perfect ingredient for anyone looking to add a hint of nuttiness to their favourite cocktail. In this post, we’ll take a look at three amaretto cocktails that are easy to make and require minimal preparation.
Alabama Slammer
Although it first appeared in print in the 1971 edition of the Playboy Bartender’s Guide, it’s unclear how or why the Alabama Slammer was invented. The combination of Southern Comfort, gin, amaretto and orange juice is definitely unconventional, but the result is a delicious citrus flavour with a nutty aftertaste. This trio of spirits produces a nice flavour, but it’s worth noting that, while the Alabama Slammer may not taste too strong, drinking too many will leave you feeling like you’ve Alabama slammed your head into a wall. Ingredients:
Put all the ingredients (apart from the garnish) and some ice into a cocktail shaker. Shake until cold.
Strain into a tall glass with fresh ice.
Garnish with your orange wheel and cherry.
Fire Island Rocket Fuel
If your cocktail of choice is a Piña Colada, but you’re looking to add some extra kick, then the Fire Island Rocket Fuel is the drink for you. Created in Fire Island, New York, by bartenders who were looking to create a bigger, stronger coconut-based cocktail, the tried-and-tested combination of pineapple juice, rum and coconut is given a nutty, potent kick — thanks to the amaretto. But the rocket fuel comes in the form of 151 rum, which is poured down the straw so that your first sip sends you to the moon and back. Ingredients:
Pour amaretto, dark rum, coconut cream, milk, and pineapple juice into a blender with crushed ice.
Blend until smooth and pour into a tall glass, or a Hurricane glass if you have one.
If you have a speed pourer handy, pour the 151 rum down the straw for a few seconds. If not, pour it in and mix gently. Finally, garnish the drink with a cherry.
Amaretto Sour
The 1970s gave birth to many different things, including disco music, platform shoes, and a nutty, ever-so-slightly sweeter version of the Whiskey Sour. The Amaretto Sour enjoyed widespread popularity throughout the seventies and lives on thanks to nostalgic bartenders and those who prefer a nutty cocktail. Incredibly simple to make, this classic cocktail will quickly become a go-to when you’re craving something sweet. Ingredients: