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

South African Easy Cuisine Course

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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Dietary Number Of Servings Dietary 15 Minutes Or Less

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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5 Ingredients Or Less Cocktails For 1 Or 2 3 Steps Or Less

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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Main Ingredient Cakes No Cook European

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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Preparation Time To Make Beverages Cocktails

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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Romantic Course Romantic Taste Mood

Amaretto Almond Cheesecake 1999

Indulge in this easy-to-make Amaretto Almond Cheesecake, a delightful dessert from 1999! This creamy, dreamy cheesecake boasts a buttery almond crust and a rich, amaretto-infused filling, topped with crunchy toasted almonds. Perfect for special occasions or a weeknight treat!

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Time To Make Time To Make Dietary 30 Minutes Or Less

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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Course Preparation Lunch Pitted Fruit

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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Preparation Meat 60 Minutes Or Less Chicken

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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Occasion Eggs Eggs Dairy Course

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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Beverages Occasion Preparation Beverages

Amaretto Iced Coffee

Escape to a warm summer evening with this delightful Amaretto Iced Coffee recipe! Perfect after a delicious meal, this creamy, subtly sweet coffee treat is the ultimate refreshing pick-me-up. Imagine the rich aroma of amaretto blending with the invigorating coolness of iced coffee – pure bliss in every sip! Easy to make in just 5 minutes, this recipe is your new go-to for summer entertaining.

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Preparation Occasion Course Oven

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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Desserts Sauces 3 Steps Or Less Condiments Etc

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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Preparation Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Amaretto Strawberry Trifle

Indulge in this irresistible Amaretto Strawberry Trifle, a family heirloom recipe passed down through generations! This stunning dessert boasts a delightful combination of juicy strawberries macerated in amaretto, creamy cream cheese frosting, and light-as-air angel food cake. The beautiful layers make it perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight treat. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, yet elegant dessert!

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Course Fruit Cuisine 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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Presentation Time To Make 15 Minutes Or Less 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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5 Ingredients Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Cheese 5 Ingredients Or Less

Baked Brie With Amaretto

Indulge in this irresistible Baked Brie with Amaretto! This easy-to-make appetizer elevates simple brie into a gourmet delight with a sweet and nutty amaretto topping. Perfect for wine and cheese parties, holiday gatherings, or a romantic night in. The creamy brie, combined with the rich amaretto and crunchy almonds, creates a flavor explosion that will impress your guests. Get ready to wow them with this simple yet elegant recipe!

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Equipment Vegetarian Bananas Oven

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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