Godfather Cocktail

The Godfather Cocktail is a 2-ingredient, easy-to-make drink that is sophisticated and complex in flavor. It is an ideal beverage to serve with dessert or as nightcap, but can also be enjoyed for cocktail hour or during holiday gatherings, as well.

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A Godfather Cocktail is typically made with an equal amount of Scotch whiskey and Italian Amaretto. It’s a spin on a classic Old Fashioned cocktail, that also has many versions itself, one being a French Connection that is made with Cognac and Amaretto.

In this cocktail, a slightly lesser amount of sweet, nutty Amaretto is balanced with the smoothness of Scotch whiskey. The finishing notes can be smoky, or even a little spicy depending on which type of scotch is used.

While it is unclear who invented this cocktail, it is widely accepted that it was named after the popular movie, The Godfather.

Why This Recipe Works

It’s a simple recipe to make. There are only 2 ingredients and a few minutes required to prepare this drink.

It’s has a complex, yet perfectly balanced flavor.

You can serve this cocktail anytime, though it is especially ideal after dinner, as a nightcap, with dessert, or even during the holidays.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces Scotch whiskey: we recommend using a blended Scotch whiskey for a smooth more balanced flavor, though single malt can be used, if preferred.
• 1 ounce Amaretto
• ice
• lemon peel (or orange peel): you could also use a small wedge instead.

The full recipe and instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Prep!

There is no significant prep work for this recipe.

Create!

Add the Scotch whiskey and Amaretto to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until chilled, about 15-30 seconds.

Add a large ice cube or sphere to a rocks glass and strain the drink over the ice.

Present!

Garnish with a lemon peel twist.

Serve immediately.

Tips and Techniques

• Use high quality Scotch whiskey and Amaretto to ensure the best flavor. 
• Using large ice cubes for serving cocktails ensures that it will melt more slowly, therefore slowing down any dilution of the cocktail.
• This is a strong cocktail in that the only ingredients are alcohol. Please drink responsibly.

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