Cherry Whiskey Sour with Amaretto Recipe (2024)

Step 1: Add the cherries to a co*cktail shaker.

Step 2: Then add the whiskey and amaretto.

Step 3: Add the lemon juice.

Step 4: Muddle everything with a muddler or a wooden spoon.

Step 5: Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake until well chilled. Strain into an old fashioned glass filled with ice.

Step 6: Garnish with extra cherries (optional).

If you like your sour co*cktails to have a frothy top, just add an egg white after you’ve muddled those cherries, then shake without ice (called a “dry shake”). Then you’ll add ice and then shake it again until well chilled. I recommend using pasteurized egg whites from a carton when making egg white co*cktails.

• If you want an egg-free or vegan option, replace the egg white with 2-3 tablespoons of aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas), or a co*cktail foaming solution.

What is amaretto?

Amaretto is a sweetItalian liqueurthat has a rich almond flavor (even though it’s often made from apricot pits!). Almond and cherry flavors are quite similar and complement each other very well, making it perfect for this co*cktail.

Does whiskey normally go in anAmaretto Sour?

Not traditionally, no. Thisamaretto co*cktailusually stars amaretto as the solo spirit. Amaretto sours often include not just a sweet liqueur but also simple syrup (or not-so-great tasting mass-producedsour mix), which can make it a bit of anoverly sweet drinkfor some. Theaddition ofbourbonwhiskeygives the traditional co*cktail a rich depth and a little warmth that balances with the amaretto’s sweetness beautifully.

What’s the difference between a Whiskey Sour andAmaretto Sour?

The main difference lies in the base spirit. Whiskey sours typically use bourbon as its primary spirit, paired with lemon juice and a sweetener. AnAmaretto Sour, on the other hand, is based on amaretto, a sweet Italian almond-flavored liqueur, which makes it sweeter and less strong. Mixing whiskey and amaretto together in this recipe blends these two flavor profiles for a co*cktail that is comforting, yet still sophisticated.

What whiskey is best for this co*cktail?

A smooth bourbon is my go-to for this co*cktail, which really makes a cherry bourbon sour. Its sweet and full-bodied nature compliments the nutty, sweet notes of amaretto perfectly. But, feel free to mix it up with a spicy rye whiskey or an Irish whiskey, if those are your jam.

Are whiskey-based sours strong?

They certainly can be! In this recipe, the cherries and lemon juice are the only non-spirit. Amaretto does have a lower ABV (alcohol by volume) than whiskey, which is usually 21-28%. Whiskey’s ABV is around 35-40%, sometimes higher.

Can I make a batch ofco*cktails for a crowd?

Yes, you can find the complete instructions and measurements to make 8 co*cktails in the recipe notes below.

Can I make a batch in advance?

Yes, you can make a batch of Cherry Whiskey Sour co*cktails up to 1 day in advance. You will muddle everything in a large pitcher and chill. Don’t add ice to the pitcher, instead pour over ice in the co*cktail glass to prevent dilution. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving too.

Cherry Whiskey Amaretto Sour

Melissa

This Cherry Whiskey Sour co*cktail is made with bourbon, amaretto, and fresh cherries for a combination spin on theclassic whiskey sourandamaretto sour.