The Best Homemade Amaretto Sour Drink Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade amaretto sour is a sweet, tangy treat that’s easy to make and even easier to love. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a cocktail that tastes like it came from a fancy bar.
- Perfect balance—the mix of sweet amaretto and zesty lemon juice creates a flavor that’s neither too sugary nor too sour.
- Quick to make—shake it up in minutes, with no fancy tools needed, just a shaker or even a mason jar.
- Smooth finish—the frothy egg white (or aquafaba for a vegan twist) gives it a silky texture that feels extra special.
Recipe

Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail that combines the nutty sweetness of amaretto with the tartness of lemon juice, creating a perfectly balanced drink. This homemade version elevates the traditional recipe with a touch of sophistication and ease.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz amaretto liqueur
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white (optional, for froth)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist or cherry (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Add amaretto, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using) to a cocktail shaker.
- Dry shake (without ice) for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for another 10-15 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.
Notes:
- Using fresh lemon juice guarantees the best flavor.
- The egg white is optional but adds a creamy texture and frothy top.
- Adjust the simple syrup to taste if you prefer a sweeter or tangier drink.
Equipment:
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Rocks glass
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 1
Nutrition
The Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail with a balance of sweet and tart flavors. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
What To Serve With It
An amaretto sour pairs wonderfully with sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or creamy brie—their richness balances the drink’s sweetness perfectly. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, try serving it with almond biscotti or dark chocolate truffles for a decadent match. I love how these combos turn a simple drink into a full, satisfying experience.
Cheese Pairing Options
When I’m whipping up an Amaretto Sour, I love thinking about how a great cheese can really make the flavors pop. A creamy Brie or Camembert works wonders, their mild tang balancing the drink’s almond and citrus notes. Blue cheeses like Gorgonzola add a bold contrast, their sharpness cutting through the sour’s sweetness. If you’re into sharper cheeses, aged Gouda or Cheddar bring a nutty richness that pairs beautifully. Soft goat cheese, with its light tartness, also complements the drink’s brightness. Always serve your cheeses at room temperature—trust me, it makes all the difference in bringing out their flavor alongside your cocktail. Cheers!
Sweet Dessert Complements
While cheese can be a fantastic pairing, sometimes I’m in the mood for something sweet to enjoy with my Amaretto Sour. I love serving it with almond biscotti or a slice of rich chocolate torte—it’s like a match made in dessert heaven. Tiramisu is another favorite, with its coffee and mascarpone layers complementing the drink’s nutty sweetness. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up some mini cheesecakes topped with amaretto-soaked cherries. For something simpler, I grab a bowl of fresh berries or a handful of dark chocolate truffles. These pairings make the whole experience feel indulgent and cozy.