If you love creamy drinks with a nutty twist and a bit of a kick, you’re gonna love this Amaretto Baileys Cocktail.
It’s smooth, sweet, and just strong enough to feel cozy and indulgent. It’s one of those drinks that feels fancy but takes just a few minutes to make.
I first whipped this up on a chilly night with friends, and it instantly became a favorite. It’s perfect for sipping after dinner or during a holiday get-together.
Why I Love This Recipe
This drink checks all the boxes when you want something cozy and smooth with a little edge. It’s:
- Quick to make—just pour and stir
- Creamy and nutty, not overly sweet
- Great for small gatherings or quiet nights
- Easy to make ahead in a pitcher for guests
- Looks fancy, tastes even better
What You’ll Need
- 2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1.5 oz Amaretto liqueur
- 1 oz vodka
- Ice cubes
- Dash of ground nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
- Cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Chill your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving—it keeps the drink extra cold and smooth.
- Shake instead of stir if you want a frothier top.
- Use large ice cubes—they melt slower and don’t water the drink down as fast.
- Use good-quality Amaretto like Disaronno for a smoother flavor.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or even a little shaved chocolate for a dessert feel.
Tools You’ll Need
- Lowball glass or cocktail glass
- Cocktail mixing spoon or shaker
- Measuring jigger or shot glass
- Small dish or bowl for garnish
- Ice cube tray
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap vodka for rum for a sweeter finish
- Use a flavored Baileys like Baileys Almond if you want a dairy-free version
- Add a splash of coffee liqueur for extra depth
- Make it iced coffee style by adding cold brew
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the Baileys, Amaretto, and vodka in a small pitcher ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just pour over ice and garnish when ready to serve.
Recipe + Instructions
Servings: 1
Total Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: None
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add Ice to Glass
Fill a lowball glass with ice cubes. Use large cubes if you have them.
Step 2: Pour 2 oz Baileys Over Ice
Pour 2 oz of Baileys Irish Cream directly over the ice in the glass.
Step 3: Add 1.5 oz Amaretto
Pour in 1.5 oz of Amaretto over the Baileys and ice.
Step 4: Add 1 oz Vodka
Pour in 1 oz vodka to balance the sweetness and give it a little kick.
Step 5: Stir Gently
Use a cocktail spoon to gently stir the drink for about 10 seconds, blending everything without breaking the ice too much.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with a dash of nutmeg and a cinnamon stick if you want. Serve immediately.
Leftovers & Storage
This drink is best made fresh, but if you’ve pre-mixed the alcohol, keep it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Don’t store it with ice—it’ll water it down.
Macros (Per Serving)
Calories: 285
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 20g
Sugar: 17g
Alcohol: About 1.8 standard drinks
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Baileys brings in cream and sweetness. Amaretto adds a nutty almond flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy textures. Vodka evens it out with some strength and sharpness so it doesn’t get too syrupy. Mixing it over ice chills it instantly while blending everything smoothly.
Common Mistakes
- Using crushed ice: It melts too fast and waters the drink down.
- Not measuring: This cocktail needs balance. Too much vodka = too strong, too much Amaretto = too sweet.
- Skipping the stir: It helps combine the layers and smooth out the flavor.
- Overgarnishing: Just a pinch of nutmeg or one cinnamon stick is plenty.
What to Serve With
- Chocolate truffles or dark chocolate squares
- Almond biscotti
- A slice of cheesecake
- Shortbread cookies
- Roasted almonds
FAQ
Can I make it without vodka?
Yes! Just skip the vodka for a sweeter, smoother drink.
What kind of Amaretto should I use?
Disaronno is a popular and smooth choice, but any good-quality Amaretto will work.
Can I make a big batch?
Yep! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Add ice per glass when serving.
Is this strong?
It has a mild kick, but it’s balanced. You can reduce or skip the vodka for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
This Amaretto Baileys Cocktail is a creamy, dreamy drink that’s perfect for relaxing or entertaining. It comes together in minutes but tastes like something you’d order at a fancy bar. Give it a try, and if you love it as much as I do, leave a comment and let me know how it turned out!
