Thirsty Thursdays: Are we overlooking the amaretto in our parent’s liquor cabinets? 

As college students, our go-to’s are usually whatever we can find on sale at the package store. Vodka, beer, maybe rum or cheap tequila if we’re feeling adventurous. But, after some inspiration from a new friend this weekend, I’m here to talk about a horribly underrepresented, underappreciated alcohol—amaretto.  

Coming from an Italian background, I’ve personally been exposed to amaretto quite a bit, occasionally in drinks but mostly in baking. For those that don’t know, amaretto is a sweet liqueur made of almonds and sometimes the pits of peaches or apricots. It’s a fine drink by itself, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are some of the best amaretto cocktails to try out this week. 

The Amaretto Sour  

This is a classic cocktail and one of the most simple to make. It’s citrusy and refreshing, which makes it the perfect drink for any occasion. It also brings with it a certain air of sophistication, more so than your typical vodka-cranberry, at least. These are awesome to pair with any party appetizer. 

Ingredients:  

1 ½ oz. amaretto liqueur 

1 oz. simple syrup 

¾ oz. fresh lemon juice 

1 orange slice 

1 maraschino cherry 

In order to make your amaretto sour, pour all the liquids into a cocktail shaker with ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with an orange slice and cherry. For a frozen treat, turn your sour into a slushie! 

The Almond Joy 

Since amaretto liqueur is almond-based, this cocktail seems like a no-brainer. This thick and creamy drink is perfect for any coconut lover. 

Ingredients:  

½ oz. coconut rum 

1 oz. amaretto 

1 oz. creme de cacao 

2 oz. cream  

To make this cocktail, measure all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and mix well. Combine into a martini glass over ice.  

Amaretto Cranberry Kiss 

This blend of almond and cranberry might seem odd at first, but it gives off a serious fall vibe. It’s so refreshing and only requires a few simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. 

Ingredients:  

4 oz. cranberry juice 

2 oz. vodka 

1 oz. amaretto 

1 oz. fresh squeezed orange juice 

Ice 

Clementine segments 

First, add all the liquid ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to combine and then strain into a martini glass. Garnish with the clementine slices. Save this recipe for a fun twist to your Thanksgiving drink menu! 

“Thirsty Thursday is created by of-age students in the Daily Campus Life section. Recommendations can be sent to life@dailycampus.com. We will respond if sober.”