As I stirred the contents of my shaker one evening, the aroma of sweet almond wafted up, instantly transporting me to sun-drenched afternoons spent sipping cocktails on a patio. This Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour offers that same nostalgic experience without the effects of alcohol. Crafted with the rich flavors of Lyre’s Amaretti and fresh lemon juice, this drink is the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a silky texture that makes it feel indulgent. It’s a fantastic option for gatherings, ensuring all your guests can enjoy a sophisticated beverage—plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want a refreshing treat after a long day, this recipe has got you covered. Curious how to create this delightful drink that mimics the classic without the buzz? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Amaretto Sour Special?

Sophisticated Flavor: The unique combination of Lyre’s Amaretti and fresh lemon juice delivers a sophisticated taste that rivals traditional cocktails.

Effortless Preparation: You’ll find that this recipe is easy to follow, requiring just a shaker and few ingredients, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced home mixologists.

Versatile Delight: Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or during a festive gathering, this Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour fits various occasions beautifully.

Guilt-Free Indulgence: With only 92 calories per serving, you can enjoy a refreshing drink without the concerns of alcohol calories. It’s great for mindful indulgence!

Make-Ahead Potential: Prep your simple syrup and lemon juice in advance to streamline your drink-making process. Pair it with snacks like mixed nuts or cheese platters for an irresistible gathering experience!

Try serving it alongside your favorite Sauce Garlic Sour for an unforgettable evening!

Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour Ingredients

For the Base
• Lyre’s Amaretti – Adds the signature almond flavor typical in amaretto liqueur; no substitution is preferable for the best taste.
• Lyre’s American Malt (or bourbon alternative) – Provides a rich, caramel-like depth; substitute with another non-alcoholic whiskey or leave out for a lighter drink.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Brings necessary tartness to balance sweetness; always use fresh for optimal flavor.
• Simple Syrup – Sweetens the drink; easily made with equal parts sugar and water, or substitute with agave syrup for a lower GI option.

For the Texture
• Egg White – Creates a frothy texture; pasteurized egg whites are recommended, but can be substituted with aquafaba (chickpea liquid) for a vegan option.

For the Complexity
• Angostura Bitters – Adds complexity to the flavor profile; keep in moderation as it can be strong.

For the Garnish
• Luxardo Cherry – For garnish, contributing a pop of color and a sweet tang.
• Lemon Twist – A fresh citrus garnish enhancing aroma and presentation.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, pour in 2 ounces of Lyre’s Amaretti, followed by 1 ounce of Lyre’s American Malt or your chosen bourbon alternative, 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 3/4 ounce of simple syrup. Next, add a frothy element by including 1 egg white or 2 ounces of aquafaba for a vegan option. Finish this step with a dash of Angostura bitters for added complexity.

Step 2: Dry Shake for Foam
Secure the lid on your shaker tightly and give it a vigorous dry shake for about 30 seconds. This process is crucial for creating that luscious frothy top on your Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour. The goal is to mix the ingredients thoroughly while aerating them to achieve a beautiful foam texture—watch for the shaker to feel warm in your hands.

Step 3: Shake with Ice
After the dry shake, add ice cubes to the shaker, filling it halfway. Shake again for another 10-15 seconds until your hands feel icy and the mixture is well chilled. This step not only cools the drink but also helps dilute it slightly, balancing the flavors perfectly for your refreshing Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour.

Step 4: Strain into Glass
Prepare a glass filled with ice and carefully strain the shaken mixture into it using a fine mesh strainer. This ensures a smooth pour while filtering out any larger bubbles or ice fragments, allowing your Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour to showcase its creamy texture and inviting color.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
For the final touch, gently place a Luxardo cherry on top of your drink and twist a fresh lemon peel over it to release its aromatic oils. Then, drop the lemon twist into the glass for both visual appeal and enhanced flavor. Serve your beautiful Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour immediately, allowing your guests to indulge in this delightful treat!

How to Store and Freeze Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour

Fridge: Store any leftover Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can give it a quick shake before serving!

Simple Syrup: Keep simple syrup in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. It’s perfect for quickly whipping up another cocktail whenever the craving strikes.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice can be stored in the fridge in a sealed container for about 3-5 days. Always use fresh juice for the best flavor!

Freezer: For long-term storage, you can freeze simple syrup in ice cube trays for future use. Just pop them in a zip-top bag once frozen and use cubes as needed in your next Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour!

Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour Variations

Feel free to customize this delightful drink, enhancing its flavor or texture to suit your palate and preferences!

Vegan Alternative: Swap 1 egg white for 2 ounces of aquafaba for a smooth, frothy texture without the eggs.
It not only keeps your drink vegan but also adds a rich creaminess that’s simply irresistible!
Flavor Twist: Experiment with flavored simple syrups like hazelnut or vanilla.
This simple switch can elevate your drink to a whole new level, giving it an exciting and unique taste!
Fizzy Addition: Add a splash of soda water for a refreshing fizz.
It’s a delightful way to lighten the drink and make it even more refreshing—perfect for sunny afternoons!
Heat it Up: Introduce a hint of spice with a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce.
This twist adds an unexpected kick, perfect for those who like to turn up the heat in their drinks!
Herbal Notes: Muddle fresh mint or basil in the shaker for a herby infusion.
These herbs can complement the almond flavor and add a refreshing burst that’s perfect for summer!
Sweet Swap: Use agave syrup instead of simple syrup for a lower GI option.
This is a great way to keep it sweet without the sugar overload, making it a better choice for mindful sippers.
Mocktail Version: Serve it over ice in a highball glass for a casual mocktail experience.
Garnish with extra lemon twists for a pop of color that’s both beautiful and flavorful!
Pairing Suggestion: Enjoy your drink alongside a bite of Sauce Garlic Sour for an unforgettable flavor combo.
The savory aspects of the sauce perfectly contrast with the sweet and tart notes of the Amaretto Sour!

Expert Tips for Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemon juice over bottled versions; it significantly enhances flavor and overall quality in your Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour.
Perfect the Dry Shake: Remember to dry shake for 30 seconds without ice first; this crucial step aerates the mixture for that delightful frothy top!
Substitution Caution: If using aquafaba instead of egg white, ensure it’s well-whipped for optimal foam. It’s a great vegan alternative for this Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour.
Bitters Balance: Add Angostura bitters sparingly; a little elevation in flavor is fantastic, but too much can overpower your drink’s delicate balance.
Chill Your Glass: For a refreshing experience, chill your serving glass beforehand. It helps keep the drink cooler for longer, perfect for warm days!

Make Ahead Options

These Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the simple syrup and fresh lemon juice up to 3 days in advance; just store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, if using aquafaba instead of egg white, it can be measured out and stored for up to 48 hours before serving. When it’s time to assemble your Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour, simply combine the prepped ingredients as directed and follow the steps for shaking and garnishing. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, handcrafted cocktails with minimal effort, making your gatherings all the more enjoyable!

What to Serve with Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour

Looking to elevate your gathering with delicious bites alongside this refreshing drink? These thoughtful pairings will enhance every sip.

Creamy Hummus: The smooth texture of hummus perfectly complements the frothy richness of the cocktail, providing a savory contrast to the sweetness.
Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts adds delightful crunch and warmth, perfectly balancing the tartness of the Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour.
Cheese Platter: Including a variety of cheeses can appeal to diverse palates; choose mild options like brie or goat cheese for a harmonious pairing.
Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers, such as strawberries and melon, bring a burst of color and juicy freshness that harmonizes with the almond notes of the drink.
Mini Caprese Bites: Combining fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella on toothpicks delivers a light and flavorful accompaniment that complements citrusy notes beautifully.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The sweet-salty contrast in these bites adds an irresistible element that ties in the drink’s sweet profile while satisfying that craving for indulgence.
Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water with lemon is the perfect refreshing palate cleanser between sips, enhancing the citrusy experience without overpowering the drink.

Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour Recipe FAQs

What type of Amaretto should I use for the best flavor?
I highly recommend using Lyre’s Amaretti, as it offers the rich almond flavor that mimics traditional amaretto liqueur. Substituting with another brand may alter the final taste, so for the best results, stick with Lyre’s when making your Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour.

How can I store leftover Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour?
Absolutely! If you have any leftover cocktail, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best when fresh, but you can shake it lightly before serving to rejuvenate that frothy top.

Can I freeze the components of this cocktail?
Yes, you can freeze the simple syrup! Pour it into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag, and you’ll have ready-to-use scoops for your next Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour for up to 3 months. Just toss a cube into the shaker to sweeten your drink instantly!

What can I substitute if I don’t want to use egg whites?
If you’re avoiding egg whites, I often use aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas. For a successful vegan alternative, measure out about 2 ounces, and whip it well before adding it to your shaker. This will create that lovely frothy texture you want in your Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour!

How long does freshly squeezed lemon juice last in the fridge?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. To maintain optimal flavor, it’s essential to use freshly squeezed juice rather than bottled versions.

Are there any dietary restrictions I need to consider with this recipe?
Certainly! This Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with such dietary requirements. Moreover, the use of aquafaba as an egg white substitute also caters to vegans. Always double-check the specific brands used, especially for ingredients like lyre’s amaretto and bitters, to ensure they meet your dietary needs!