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Updated: Oct. 18, 2023
TMB STUDIO
This recipe for homemade amaretto liqueur is just what your bar cart needed!
Amaretto is a much loved almond-flavored Italian liqueur, perfect to have on hand in your home bar. But did you know it’s also a great drink to make yourself? This homemade amaretto recipe requires just a few simple steps and a couple of days to rest, leaving you with a delicious liqueur to use in co*cktails, pour over ice cream or give as a tasty gift to friends.
Key Ingredients for Amaretto
- Sugar: The mix of brown sugar and cane sugar provide the sweetness to balance out the vodka for a smooth finish.
- Vodka: This is the base of the drink, so you want to use a high quality vodka for a delicious final product.
- Almond extract: Almond is a key flavor in amaretto. A little goes a long way.
Amaretto Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup cane sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups vodka
- 1 tablespoon almond extract
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Make sugar syrup
In a small saucepan, bring cane sugar, brown sugar and water to a boil. Reduce heat and allow to simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Cool liquid completely.
Step 2: Mix ingredients and store
Once cooled, transfer sugar syrup to a 1-quart glass jar. Add remaining ingredients—vodka, almond extract and vanilla extract—and shake well. Cover with a lid and let stand in a dark place for 1-3 days to allow flavors to blend.
When it’s ready, pour into glass bottles and label them with the date. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months.
Recipe Variations for Amaretto
- Vanilla: For a slightly different vanilla flavor, use the vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract.
- Spice: Flavor your amaretto with some whole cloves or star anise for a more herbaceous final product.
How to Store Amaretto
Store your amaretto in a cool, dark place for the best quality and longest storage. It doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge, so it makes a great centerpiece on your bar cart.
Tips for Making Amaretto
TMB Studio
How long does homemade amaretto last?
This homemade amaretto recipe lasts for up to 2 months when stored properly. Make sure to store it somewhere cool and dark, and you’ll have it on hand for plenty of time!
What co*cktails can you make with amaretto?
Amaretto makes delicious co*cktails. Try it in a variety of sours, like this apple amaretto sour. Or go the sweet route with a tipsy coffee.
Originally Published: October 18, 2023
