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When you’re searching for a sophisticated nightcap that perfectly balances sweet and bold flavors, the Godfather cocktail delivers an offer you can’t refuse. This distinguished drink emerged during the 1970s, coinciding with the release of Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic film, and while its true origins remain shadowed in mystery, its appeal endures in the finest cocktail lounges worldwide.

A godfather cocktail with ice and an orange twist casts a shadow on marble.

🎥 Watch: How to Make a Smooth Godfather Cocktail

What Is a Godfather Cocktail?

The Godfather cocktail is a refined two-ingredient masterpiece combining smooth bourbon whiskey with nutty amaretto liqueur.

Legend suggests it was Marlon Brando’s preferred drink, though like many tales from the era, this detail remains delightfully unverified.

A godfather cocktail with an orange twist is on a marble surface, with a bottle of Disaronno and a sliced orange in the background against a dark backdrop.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

  • TIMELESS – The simplicity of preparation belies its complex flavor profile – a perfect balance of bourbon’s warmth with amaretto’s sweet almond notes.
  • SIMPLE – It’s an impressive yet approachable cocktail that works equally well as a digestif or conversation starter.

What You Need to Make a Godfather Cocktail

  • Bourbon: The backbone of our drink – select a quality bourbon with enough character to stand up to the amaretto.
  • Amaretto: This Italian almond liqueur adds a sophisticated sweetness and depth. Ice: Both for mixing and serving – we recommend a large crystal-clear cube for serving.
  • Orange twist: For an elegant aromatic garnish.

How to Make a Godfather Cocktail

  1. Fill your mixing glass with fresh ice.
  2. Pour 2 oz bourbon and ½ oz amaretto over the ice.
  3. Stir gently for 30 seconds until properly chilled and diluted.
  4. Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
  5. Express the oils from an orange twist over the drink and garnish.
  • A liquid is poured from a bottle into a jigger above a glass, with citrus slices on the marble surface nearby.
    Add the bourbon and amaretto to a cocktail mixer.
  • A twisted metal stirrer mixes an amber liquid with ice in a glass pitcher, next to a halved orange and a labeled bottle.
    Stir to combine.
  • A hand uses tongs to place an ice cube into an empty glass on a marble surface near a sliced orange.
    Add craft ice to a glass.
  • A godfather cocktail is poured through a strainer into an ice-filled glass on a marble surface, with a bottle and halved orange in the background.
    Strain and serve.

Expert Recipe Tips

  • Tip 1: The traditional ratio is 2:1, but you can adjust the amaretto to your preference – we find this creates the perfect balance.
  • Tip 2: Choose a higher-proof bourbon (45% ABV or higher) to maintain character when mixed.
  • Tip 3: Don’t skip the orange twist – its oils add an essential aromatic element that elevates the entire experience.
An amber godfather cocktail with ice and an orange peel garnish sits on a marble surface next to an orange slice.

How to Serve This Godfather Cocktail

Serve in a rocks glass over a single large ice cube. The drink should be enjoyed slowly, allowing the ice to gradually dilute and evolve the flavors. Perfect for late evening sipping or as an after-dinner drink.

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Godfather Cocktail Recipe

Our Godfather cocktail recipe perfectly balances premium bourbon with amaretto for a sophisticated after-dinner drink. This classic two-ingredient cocktail delivers complex flavors while remaining remarkably simple to craft at home.
Print Recipe
A godfather cocktail with ice and an orange peel garnish sits on a light marbled surface.
Prep Time:5 minutes
Total Time:5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 1/2 oz amaretto

Instructions

  • Fill a mixing glass with ice and add the bourbon and amaretto.
  • Stir until chilled.
  • Strain over a large ice cube.
  • Garnish with an orange twist

Video

Servings: 1 cocktail
Author: Kita

Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I substitute scotch for bourbon in a Godfather?

A: Yes, using scotch creates a variation called the “Godfather Sr.” – particularly excellent with a smoky single malt.

Q: Why is proper dilution important in this cocktail?

A: Dilution helps marry the bourbon and amaretto while tempering the overall sweetness, creating a more balanced drink.

Q: What’s the best bourbon to use in a Godfather?

A: We recommend a bold, high-rye bourbon that can stand up to the amaretto’s sweetness – look for bottles in the 45-50% ABV range.

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Award-winning cocktail maker, picture taker, content writer, editor, and all around imbiber behind the Libation Chronicles and a few other fun projects.

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