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Ever wondered how to transform the classic Amaretto Sour into something even more refreshing? We’re excited to share our take on the Amaretto Stone Sour, a sophisticated twist that pairs the nutty sweetness of amaretto with bright citrus notes. You’ll discover why this cocktail has become a staple in upscale lounges across the country.

An amaretto stone sour cocktail served in a clear glass with ice cubes, garnished with two cherries and an orange slice, is set against halved oranges in the background.

Watch 🎥: How to make an Amaretto Stone Sour Drink

What Is an Amaretto Stone Sour Cocktail?

The Amaretto Stone Sour is a refined variation of the traditional Amaretto Sour that introduces fresh orange juice to the mix. This cocktail emerged in the 1970s when Italian liqueurs were gaining popularity in American bars, offering a smoother, more balanced profile than its predecessor.

A glass of amaretto stone sour with an orange slice and cherries sits on a marble surface, with a bottle of Disaronno and sliced oranges in the background.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

  • SMOKY – The addition of orange juice creates a perfect harmony with the amaretto’s almond notes, resulting in a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
  • CLASSIC – This cocktail strikes an ideal balance between sweet and sour, making it more approachable than traditional sours while maintaining sophisticated appeal.

What You Need to Make an Amaretto Stone Sour

  • Amaretto: The star of the show, bringing rich almond and stone fruit notes (we recommend Disaronno for its authentic flavor profile).
  • Orange Juice: Fresh-squeezed delivers the brightest flavor and best mouthfeel.
  • Sour Mix: While commercial options work, we’ll share our house-made recipe below for an elevated experience.
  • Maraschino Cherry: Select premium cocktail cherries like Luxardo for a proper garnish.

How to Make an Amaretto Stone Sour

  1. Fill your cocktail shaker with fresh ice cubes (not crushed ice).
  2. Pour 2 oz amaretto, 2 oz orange juice, and 2 oz sour mix into the shaker.
  3. Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds to ensure proper dilution and temperature.
  4. Strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass.
  5. Garnish with a quality cocktail cherry.
  • Pouring amaretto from a brass jigger into a textured glass, with an orange half in the background.
  • Freshly squeezed orange juice is poured from a ceramic juicer into a textured glass, with halved oranges on the table.
  • A person holds a gold-topped, textured cocktail shaker with orange liquid on a marble surface next to orange halves.
  • A hand pours an amaretto stone sour cocktail through a strainer into an ice-filled glass, surrounded by a bottle and sliced orange.

Expert Recipe Tips

  • Tip 1: Make your own sour mix by combining equal parts fresh lemon juice and simple syrup for a cleaner taste.
  • Tip 2: Let the cocktail rest for 30 seconds after straining to allow the flavors to marry properly.
  • Tip 3: Consider using a large ice cube instead of standard cubes to slow dilution and maintain optimal temperature.
A hand garnishes a glass of amaretto stone sour with a skewer of cherries, while sliced oranges rest on the marble surface nearby.

How to Serve This Amaretto Stone Sour

Serve in a double rocks glass over fresh ice. While the traditional maraschino cherry garnish works beautifully, an orange wheel and cherry combination can elevate the presentation for special occasions.

More Cocktail Recipes

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Amaretto Stone Sour Cocktail Recipe

A refined twist on the classic Amaretto Sour, featuring premium amaretto balanced with fresh orange juice and house-made sour mix. This perfectly balanced cocktail delivers sophisticated flavors while remaining approachable and refreshing.
Print Recipe
An amaretto stone sour cocktail garnished with an orange slice and cherries sits in a glass, with a bottle and sliced orange in the background.
Prep Time:5 minutes
Total Time:5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 oz amaretto
  • 2 oz orange juice
  • 2 oz sour mix
  • Maraschino cherry for garnish

Instructions

  • Add the amaretto, orange juice and sour mix to a shaker with ice.
  • Shake until chilled.
  • Add glass to rocks glass and strain the cocktail into the ice.
  • Garnish with a Maraschino cherry.

Video

Servings: 1 cocktail

Recipe FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

While fresh-squeezed is optimal, premium not-from-concentrate orange juice works in a pinch. Avoid anything with added sugars or preservatives.

What’s the best amaretto to use?

Disaronno is our go-to, but Luxardo Amaretto and Lazzaroni offer excellent alternatives for discerning palates.

How can I adjust the sweetness?

Modify the sour mix ratio or use less amaretto. Start with 1.5 oz of amaretto and adjust to taste.

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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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