When it comes to crafting refreshing cocktails, few ingredients can match the complexity and depth of flavor offered by bitter amaro. This Italian liqueur has been a staple in bars and homes for generations, and its versatility has inspired countless creative concoctions.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 18 bold and delicious amaro cocktail recipes that showcase the best of what this iconic ingredient has to offer. From classic combinations like the Black Manhattan and Negroni Bianco to innovative twists like the Amaro Flip and Jungle Bird, these drinks are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
So grab your shaker, pour yourself a glass, and get ready to explore the wonderful world of amaro cocktails!
Black Manhattan with Amaro and Rye
This variation of the iconic Manhattan cocktail adds a depth of flavor with the addition of Amaro, an Italian bitter liqueur. The result is a rich, complex drink that’s perfect for sipping on a cold winter night.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz Amaro Nonino
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rye, sweet vermouth, and Amaro.
3. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None
Amaro Sour with Egg White Foam
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing twist on the classic Whiskey Sour. The addition of Amaro and egg white foam adds depth and texture to this tangy drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz Amaro (such as Averna or Montenegro)
– 1 egg white
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shaker, combine whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the Amaro and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill.
3. Crack in the egg white and continue shaking until the mixture becomes frothy and doubled in volume (about 20-30 seconds).
4. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled cocktail.
Paper Plane Cocktail with Amaro Nonino
Experience the perfect blend of citrusy freshness and herbaceous depth with this creative twist on the classic Paper Plane cocktail, featuring Amaro Nonino. This unique combination will transport your taste buds to a world of complexity and delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Bourbon Whiskey
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 3 dashes Amaro Nonino
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Bourbon Whiskey, Aperol, grapefruit juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for approximately 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Add 3 dashes of Amaro Nonino on top.
6. Garnish with an orange twist.
Cooking Time: None (cocktail preparation only)
Amaro Spritz with Prosecco and Soda
This refreshing twist on the classic Spritz combines the bold flavors of Amaro with the effervescence of Prosecco and a splash of soda. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a light and lively cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Amaro
– 4 oz Prosecco
– 1 oz club soda
– Slice of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Amaro and top with Prosecco.
3. Add a splash of club soda to give it a lively fizz.
4. Garnish with a slice of orange.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just 5 minutes.
Negroni Bianco with Amaro and White Vermouth
A creamy twist on the classic Negroni, this recipe combines the spicy kick of amaro with the subtle bitterness of white vermouth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz Amaro Montenegro
– 1/2 oz white vermouth (such as Dolin)
– 1 dash of orange bitters
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, amaro, and white vermouth.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Express a lemon twist over the drink, then place it on the rim of the glass.
Cooking Time: None
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Amaro Old Fashioned with Orange Bitters
Elevate your Old Fashioned game with the addition of amaro and orange bitters, creating a complex and intriguing flavor profile. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate bold flavors and unique twists on a classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 oz amaro (such as Averna or Cynar)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 2 dashes orange bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine bourbon, amaro, and simple syrup.
2. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
4. Add two dashes of orange bitters on top.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required!
Fernet and Cola Highball
Elevate your highball game with this unique combination of Fernet-Branca’s bold, herbal flavors and the crispness of cola. This refreshing drink is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Fernet-Branca
– 4 oz cola (such as Coca-Cola)
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Fernet-Branca and top with cola.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink, if desired, and drop it in.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
This Fernet and Cola Highball is a surprising hit that will quench your thirst and intrigue your palate. The bitter, herbal notes of the Fernet-Branca complement the sweetness of the cola, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Amaro Flip with Whole Egg and Nutmeg
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Amaro liqueur, rich whole egg, and warm nutmeg to create a unique and indulgent cocktail. Perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Amaro liqueur
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 oz heavy cream (optional)
– Ice
– Whipped cream and grated nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the egg into a mixing glass or shaker filled with ice.
2. Add the Amaro liqueur, ground nutmeg, and heavy cream (if using).
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and emulsify the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and grated nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply shake and serve.
Boulevardier with Amaro and Bourbon
A twist on the classic Old Fashioned, this Boulevardier combines bourbon’s rich flavor with the bitter sweetness of amaro.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes amaro (such as Fernet Branca)
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour in the bourbon and sweet vermouth.
3. Add the amaro and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Enjoy your Boulevardier with Amaro and Bourbon!
Amaro Mule with Ginger Beer and Lime
Combine the spicy kick of amaro with the crispness of ginger beer and a squeeze of lime juice for a unique spin on the classic Moscow Mule.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz amaro
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the amaro and top with ginger beer.
3. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and drop the lime wheel into the glass.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! Just mix and serve.
Campari and Amaro Citrus Spritz
Escape to a warm summer evening with this refreshing Campari and Amaro Citrus Spritz. This Italian-inspired cocktail is perfect for sipping by the pool or on a rooftop patio.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz Amaro Nonino
– 2 oz Prosecco
– Juice of 1 orange
– Slice of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Campari and Amaro Nonino.
3. Top with Prosecco.
4. Squeeze in the juice of 1 orange.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with a slice of orange.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Amaro Hot Toddy with Honey and Lemon
As the temperatures drop, a warm and comforting drink is just what you need to unwind. This Amaro hot toddy recipe combines the bitter sweetness of Amaro, the soothing qualities of honey, and the brightness of lemon for a delightful winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Amaro (such as Averna or Fernet Branca)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp honey
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tsp)
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a simmer.
2. Add the Amaro and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in the honey until fully incorporated.
4. Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the cinnamon stick, if using.
5. Reduce heat to low and let steep for 10-15 minutes.
6. Strain into a mug or glass and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Dark and Stormy Amaro Twist
A refreshing twist on the classic Dark ‘N’ Stormy cocktail, this recipe combines the bold flavors of amaro with the spicy warmth of ginger beer.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 1/2 oz amaro (such as Fernet Branca or Sfumato)
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add the dark rum and amaro.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Amaro Martinez with Sweet Vermouth
Elevate your cocktail game with this classic Italian-inspired recipe that combines the bold flavors of Amaro and sweet vermouth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Averna Amaro
– 3/4 oz Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth
– Ice
– Orange twist or slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the Averna Amaro and Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth over the ice.
3. Stir the mixture for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine the flavors.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Garnish with an orange twist or slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a cooking one.
Enjoy your delicious Amaro Martinez with Sweet Vermouth!
Jungle Bird with Amaro and Pineapple
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique twist on the classic Jungle Bird, featuring amaro’s complex flavors and a hint of pineapple sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz dark rum
– 1 oz pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz Amaro Nonino
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– Splash of ginger beer
– Pineapple wedges and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add dark rum, pineapple juice, Amaro Nonino, and lime juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of ginger beer.
6. Garnish with pineapple wedges and mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, after all.
Enjoy your refreshing Jungle Bird with Amaro and Pineapple!
Amaro Sbagliato with Sparkling Wine
Combine the rich flavors of amaro with the effervescence of sparkling wine for a delightful twist on the classic Negroni.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces amaro (such as Fernet Branca or Cynar)
– 1/2 ounce sweet vermouth
– 4-6 ounces Prosecco or other sparkling wine
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the amaro and sweet vermouth.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with Prosecco, holding back the foam with a spoon if desired.
6. Garnish with an orange peel, twisted or curled around the rim of the glass.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes ( preparation time)
Italian Stallion with Amaro and Grapefruit
A refreshing twist on the classic Italian Stallion cocktail, this recipe combines the bold flavors of amaro and grapefruit for a unique and delightful drinking experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Italian Stallion (see below)
– 1/2 oz amaro
– Juice of 1 grapefruit
– Splash of soda water
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Italian Stallion and amaro to the shaker.
3. Squeeze in the juice of one grapefruit.
4. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
6. Top off with a splash of soda water.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and serve!
Amaro Cola Float with Vanilla Ice Cream
Elevate your ice cream game with this unexpected combination of Amaro, cola, and creamy vanilla. The bitter notes of the Amaro balance out the sweetness of the cola and ice cream, creating a fascinating flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup cola (such as Coca-Cola)
– 1/4 cup Amaro (such as Averna or Cynar)
– Whipped cream and a cherry, optional
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
2. Pour in the cola, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
3. Add the Amaro, stirring gently to combine.
4. Top with whipped cream and a cherry, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the unique flavor combination.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with these 18 bold and refreshing Amaro recipes! From classic twists like the Negroni Bianco and Boulevardier, to unique creations like the Black Manhattan and Fernet and Cola Highball, there’s something for every taste. Experiment with different bitter spirits, citrusy flavors, and bubbly textures to create your new favorite drink. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting out, these recipes will inspire you to try something new and delicious.
