When it comes to classic cocktails, few are as beloved and timeless as the Sidecar. A mix of Cognac, Cointreau or other orange-flavored liqueur, and lemon juice, this drink has been a staple of French culture since the early 20th century. And while its traditional recipe is certainly delicious on its own, there’s something to be said for shaking things up (pun intended) with new twists and flavors.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 refreshing Sidecar cocktail recipes that put a unique spin on the classic drink. From sweet and fruity to spicy and savory, these recipes offer something for every palate. Whether you’re looking to spice up your cocktail game or simply want to try something new, these Sidecar variations are sure to impress.
Classic Sidecar with Orange Twist
This elegant cocktail combines the smoothness of cognac with the tanginess of orange liqueur and a hint of citrus, perfect for a sophisticated gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz Triple Sec
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed orange juice
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the cognac and triple sec.
3. Squeeze in the orange juice.
4. Shake gently for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist, cut into a thin strip.
Cooking Time: None
Spiced Pear Sidecar
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this aromatic and inviting Spiced Pear Sidecar recipe, perfect for serving alongside festive fare or as a standalone treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pears, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until pears are evenly coated.
3. Place the pear mixture in a baking dish and dot with butter.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pears are tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and stir in heavy cream to create a syrupy sauce.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Bourbon Sidecar
Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and indulgent Maple Bourbon Sidecar, perfect for the next gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
• 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
• 1/2 oz Cognac
• 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
• Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, maple syrup, Cognac, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None required!
Enjoy your Maple Bourbon Sidecar, a perfect blend of sweet and sophisticated flavors.
Elderflower Sidecar
Elderflower Sidecar Recipe: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Cocktail
This Elderflower Sidecar recipe combines the sweet and floral flavors of elderflower liqueur with the classic French cocktail, adding a unique twist to this timeless drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz cognac
– 3/4 oz elderflower liqueur
– 1/2 oz Cointreau or other triple sec
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Simple syrup (optional)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the cognac, elderflower liqueur, and Cointreau.
3. Squeeze in the lemon juice and add simple syrup if desired (for a sweeter drink).
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Ginger-Infused Sidecar
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Sidecar. The addition of ginger-infused simple syrup adds a warm, spicy flavor to balance out the sweetness and tanginess of the Cointreau and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Cointreau
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz ginger-infused simple syrup (see below)
– Salt for rimming glass
Ginger-Infused Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add Cointreau, lemon juice, and ginger-infused simple syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into prepared glass.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe only involves mixing and shaking.
Smoky Mezcal Sidecar
Elevate your cocktail game with this smoky twist on the classic sidecar. This recipe combines the bold flavors of mezcal, triple sec, and citrus to create a unique and sophisticated drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Mezcal
– 1 oz Triple Sec
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a cocktail glass with salt.
2. In a shaker filled with ice, combine mezcal, triple sec, orange juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Blackberry Sage Sidecar
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Blackberry Sage Sidecar, combining the sweetness of blackberries and the earthiness of sage. This twist on the classic Sidecar is perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sophisticated drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz Grand Marnier
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 cup blackberry puree
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– 2 sprigs of fresh sage leaves
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Cognac, Grand Marnier, lime juice, blackberry puree, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a sprig of fresh sage leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Pomegranate Sidecar
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and tangy pomegranate take on the classic Sidecar. Perfect for warm weather or special occasions, this refreshing drink is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz pomegranate juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of sparkling water
– Pomegranate seeds and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Cognac, lime juice, pomegranate juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of sparkling water.
6. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Lavender Honey Sidecar
This recipe takes the classic sidecar cocktail and adds a floral touch with lavender honey syrup, creating a unique and refreshing drink perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz lavender honey syrup (see below)
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– Ice
– Lemon twist or edible flower for garnish
Lavender Honey Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 1 tsp honey
Combine sugar, water, and lavender buds in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain syrup and add honey. Let cool.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Cognac, lemon juice, lavender honey syrup, triple sec, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or edible flower.
Cooking Time: None. This recipe requires no cooking time, just mixing and shaking!
Blood Orange Sidecar
This refreshing cocktail combines the bold flavors of blood orange juice and triple sec with the smoothness of whiskey, perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Blood Orange Juice
– 3/4 oz Triple Sec
– 1/2 oz Whiskey (such as Jameson or Bushmills)
– Simple syrup (optional)
– Ice
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add blood orange juice, triple sec, and whiskey to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. If desired, add a dash of simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water dissolved) to balance the flavors.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: 10-15 seconds (shaking time)
Vanilla Bean Sidecar
This recipe puts a new spin on the classic sidecar cocktail by incorporating the creamy, sweet flavor of vanilla bean. Perfect for warm weather or as a unique addition to your cocktail repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz Triple Sec
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup infused with vanilla bean (see note)
– Salt, for rimming glass
Instructions:
1. Rim a cocktail glass with salt.
2. In a shaker, combine Cognac, Triple Sec, lime juice, and vanilla-infused simple syrup.
3. Fill shaker with ice and shake until chilled.
4. Strain into prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel or sprig of mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (cocktail preparation only)
Rosemary Grapefruit Sidecar
This unique sidecar variation combines the brightness of grapefruit with the herbal notes of rosemary, creating a refreshing and complex cocktail perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Grand Marnier
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz Cognac
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar:water)
– 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Grand Marnier, grapefruit juice, Cognac, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Chai-Spiced Sidecar
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique blend of chai spices and the timeless sidecar recipe. This Chai-Spiced Sidecar is perfect for those who love a little warmth in their drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz Grand Marnier
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp chai spice blend (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves)
– Simple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Cognac, Grand Marnier, and lemon juice.
2. Add the chai spice blend and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to infuse the flavors.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
4. If desired, sweeten with simple syrup to balance the spiciness.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None required! This cocktail is ready in under 2 minutes.
Passionfruit Sidecar
This refreshing take on the classic Sidecar cocktail combines the sweetness of passionfruit with the tanginess of citrus, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a taste of paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed passionfruit juice
– 1/2 oz Grand Marnier
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Cognac, passionfruit juice, Grand Marnier, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Apple Cider Sidecar
This refreshing Apple Cider Sidecar recipe combines the warmth of apple cider with the coolness of whiskey and citrus, perfect for a crisp fall evening. With only a few ingredients, you can create a delightful cocktail that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon or whiskey, lemon juice, apple cider, and simple syrup.
3. Add a pinch of cinnamon powder (about 1/8 teaspoon).
4. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and serve!
Cherry Almond Sidecar
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique drink to serve at your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces brandy
– 3/4 ounce cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 1/2 ounce almond-flavored liqueur (such as Amaretto)
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup cherry puree or grenadine syrup
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add brandy, cherry liqueur, almond-flavored liqueur, and lemon juice.
3. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a sugar-rimmed glass filled with ice.
5. Drizzle cherry puree or grenadine syrup around the inside of the glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist.
Cooking Time: None (cocktail is ready to serve immediately)
Lemongrass Sidecar
A refreshing twist on the classic sidecar cocktail, this Lemongrass Sidecar combines the sweetness of Cointreau with the tanginess of lemon and the herbal notes of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cointreau
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar water)
– 1/4 oz lemongrass syrup (see note)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Cointreau, lemon juice, simple syrup, and lemongrass syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Note: Lemongrass syrup can be made by steeping lemongrass leaves in simple syrup for at least 2 hours, then straining and discarding the solids. Store leftover syrup in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Peach Basil Sidecar
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and flavorful combination of peaches, basil, and citrus. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you want to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 1/2 ounces peach puree (or peach schnapps)
– 3 ounces gin
– 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. Muddle the diced peaches and basil leaves in the bottom of the glass.
3. Add the peach puree (or schnapps), gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
4. Fill the glass with ice and stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of peach and a sprig of basil.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply assemble and serve.
Espresso Sidecar
This Espresso Sidecar combines the bold flavors of espresso and Cognac with the sweetness of Cointreau, creating a unique and complex cocktail perfect for coffee lovers and spirits enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 1/2 oz Cointreau
– 1/2 oz freshly brewed espresso
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional)
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the Cognac, Cointreau, and espresso to the mixing glass.
3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. If desired, add simple syrup to taste.
6. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink, then use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to shake things up with these 20 refreshing sidecar cocktail recipes! From classic twists like Orange and Maple Bourbon, to unique combinations like Smoky Mezcal and Lavender Honey, there’s something for every palate. Spice up your drink game with Spiced Pear and Chai-Spiced, or go sweet with Blackberry Sage and Peach Basil. And don’t forget the classics – Vanilla Bean and Rosemary Grapefruit are sure to please. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking for a new drink to try, these sidecar recipes are sure to impress.
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