Liqueur, Spirit | Gluten Free Vegan

Amaretto

Prunus dulcis (almonds), varying base alcohol Allergens: Tree Nuts (Almonds)
Amaretto

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rosaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Italian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Almonds, Apricot Kernels, Sugar, Alcohol

The Forktionary Angle

"More than just a digestif, Amaretto's unique bittersweet almond profile elevates simple coffee to complex cocktails and baked goods with sophisticated depth."

Definition

A sweet Italian liqueur flavored with almonds, or sometimes apricot kernels, possessing a distinct bittersweet taste and rich aroma.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Bittersweet, Almond, Marzipan
TextureSyrupy, Smooth
AromaAlmond, Vanilla, Fruity
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Primary Flavor Source

Apricot kernels or bitter almonds

Shelf Life (Opened)

Indefinite (maintains flavor for years)

Typical Alcohol By Volume (ABV)

21-28%

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 fl oz (30ml)
Calories270 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate25 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars25 g
Calcium0 mg
Iron0 mg
Potassium0 mg

Chef’s Secret

A dash of amaretto can enhance fruit desserts, particularly stone fruits, by adding a complex nutty depth.

Substitutions

Best Match

Almond Extract

1 tsp extract : 2 tbsp amaretto

Best non-alcoholic substitute for baking/desserts; adjust sweetness with sugar.

Orgeat Syrup

1:1

Almond-flavored syrup, good for cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks, slightly sweeter.

Frangelico (Hazelnut Liqueur)

1:1

Similar sweetness and nutty profile, but hazelnut instead of almond.

Non-alcoholic Almond Syrup

1:1

For non-alcoholic dessert or drink applications where almond flavor is key.

Buying Guide

Look for Italian-made brands like Disaronno or Luxardo for authentic flavor.

Flavor Pairings

Coffee Chocolate Cream Peaches Amaretti biscuits Whiskey.

Recipes Using Amaretto

Occasion Beverages North American Easy

A Cup Of Joy

Warm your soul with this delightful coffee recipe! Perfect for chilly mornings or a cozy evening in, 'A Cup of Joy' is a simple yet decadent treat. This easy 5-minute recipe combines rich coffee with creamy whipped cream and sweet coconut shavings for a truly blissful experience. Indulge in the ultimate comfort drink!

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African Time To Make Preparation For 1 Or 2

African Coffee Cooler

Escape the heat with this refreshing African Coffee Cooler! A vibrant blend of coffee, creamy sweetness, and exotic flavors, this 5-minute drink is the perfect pick-me-up or after-dinner treat. Easy to make and bursting with deliciousness, it's the ideal summer cooler.

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Taste Mood 3 Steps Or Less Cocktails Time To Make

African Obsession

Indulge in the exotic allure of the African Obsession Martini! This creamy, decadent cocktail features Amarula cream liqueur, a unique South African treasure made from the marula fruit. Imagine rich caramel notes, hints of dark chocolate, and a whisper of vanilla – all blended to perfection in this sophisticated martini. Inspired by playful chimpanzees feasting on marula fruit (yes, really!), this recipe is a taste of Africa's vibrant heart. Discover a new favorite cocktail – you won't be disappointed!

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Beverages Easy Vegan Time To Make

Alabama Slammer

Transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise with this vibrant Alabama Slammer! A refreshing and fruity cocktail that tastes just like a sophisticated fruit punch, this easy-to-make drink is perfect for parties, warm evenings, or a quick pick-me-up. Get ready to be amazed by the burst of delicious flavors!

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For 1 Or 2 Easy Beverages Cocktails

Almond Cow

A creamy, dreamy coffee cocktail that blends the rich nuttiness of almonds with the bold aroma of coffee. Perfect for a quick afternoon pick-me-up or a sophisticated evening treat! This 2-minute recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and a cocktail shaker.

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Cheese Main Ingredient Eggs Dairy Cake Fillings And Frostings

Almond Cream Cheese Glaze

Elevate your cakes with this dreamy Almond Cream Cheese Glaze! Perfect for spice cake, carrot cake, banana cake, or even chocolate cake, this luscious glaze melts into warm cake for irresistible flavor. The delicate almond flavor complements any dessert beautifully. Double the recipe to generously frost a two-layer cake. Get ready for rave reviews!

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3 Steps Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Number Of Servings

Almond Joy

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Almond Joy Cocktail! A quick and easy recipe that captures the essence of the classic candy bar in a refreshing, icy beverage. Perfect for a warm day or a special occasion.

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Time To Make Pancakes And Waffles Dietary Preparation

Amaretto Blueberry Pancakes

Wow your brunch guests with these irresistible Amaretto Blueberry Pancakes! Easy to make, bursting with juicy blueberries, and infused with the delightful aroma of amaretto, these pancakes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Skip the complicated brunch prep and impress everyone with this simple yet elegant recipe.

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Valentines Day European Dietary Eggs Dairy

Amaretto Brunch Omelet

Indulge in a luxurious and romantic breakfast with this Amaretto Brunch Omelet! This delightful recipe, inspired by Disaronno, combines the rich flavor of amaretto with fluffy eggs and sweet fruit for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this omelet is easier to make than you think. Get ready to impress!

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Time To Make Chicken Poultry Dietary

Amaretto Chicken

This Amaretto Chicken recipe delivers a surprisingly delicious fusion of sweet and savory flavors. Tender chicken breasts are coated in a crispy blend of spices, then simmered in a rich, tangy sauce made with orange juice, amaretto, and Dijon mustard. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress your family and friends! It's also freezable for future meals.

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Time To Make Occasion Eggs Holiday Event

Amaretto French Toast W Amaretto Butter And Syrup

Indulge in a luxurious breakfast or brunch with this decadent Amaretto French Toast! Soaked in a rich custard infused with the delightful almond flavor of Amaretto, then topped with homemade Amaretto butter and syrup, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or a truly unforgettable weekend treat. For a delightful twist, try substituting Irish Cream liqueur for the Amaretto for a completely different flavor profile.

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Number Of Servings Seafood Main Dish Number Of Servings

Amaretto Oriental Salmon

Experience a culinary fusion with this Amaretto Oriental Salmon recipe! Sweet Amaretto, savory soy sauce, and zesty lime create an unforgettable glaze for perfectly baked salmon fillets (or steaks!). This easy recipe, adapted from about.com, is ready in under 2 hours and features a vibrant marinade infused with ginger, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh asparagus for an elegant presentation. Prepare to impress!

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Course 5 Ingredients Or Less Occasion Sauces

Amaretto Sauce

This unbelievably delicious Amaretto Sauce was originally created as a bread pudding topping (check out our recipe!), but it's far too decadent to keep hidden! Its rich, nutty flavor and subtle almond aroma make it the ultimate topping for ice cream, cakes, pastries, and more. Easily doubled for larger gatherings, this quick and simple sauce will become your new go-to dessert enhancer. Prepare to be amazed!

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Course Dinner Party 3 Steps Or Less Easy

Amaretto Sour Cream Strawberries

Indulge in the delightful taste of summer with these Amaretto Sour Cream Strawberries! Sweet, juicy strawberries are dipped in a luscious, creamy mixture of sour cream, amaretto, and powdered sugar. This light and refreshing dessert is incredibly easy to make and perfect for a quick treat, elegant appetizer, or delightful addition to any party. Keep the strawberry tops intact for easy dipping and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and a hint of almondy amaretto.

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Nuts Main Ingredient Holiday Event Romantic

Apple Pancakes With Amaretto Pecan Syrup

Start your day with a heavenly breakfast! These fluffy apple pancakes, drizzled with a warm amaretto pecan syrup, are the perfect treat for a romantic breakfast in bed or a delightful weekend brunch. The unique syrup is also surprisingly delicious on waffles or even pork roast! Get the recipe now and impress your loved ones.

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British Columbian British Columbian North American Preparation

Apple Yum

A crowd-pleasing Apple Yum Strudel recipe! This easy-to-follow recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the richness of phyllo dough for a delightful dessert. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredible, golden-brown baked treat, perfect served warm with a scoop of ice cream or yogurt.

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5 Ingredients Or Less Course Served Hot Chocolate

Baileys Cookies N Cream Cocktail

Indulge in the creamy, dreamy delight of our Baileys Cookies N Cream Cocktail! This irresistible drink captures the essence of a warm, freshly baked cookie – smooth, nutty, with a hint of cinnamon – without the mess. Perfect for a cozy night in or an elegant gathering, this easy-to-make cocktail is sure to become your new favorite.

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Course Vegetarian Time To Make Brunch

Banana Cupcakes With Amaretto Buttercream

Indulge in the delightful moistness of these banana cupcakes, bursting with subtle banana flavor and topped with a heavenly Amaretto buttercream frosting. This recipe, adapted from Cooking Light (October 2006), yields 10 decadent cupcakes perfect for any occasion. The amaretto adds a sophisticated touch, creating a cupcake that's both comforting and elegant.

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