Shake things up this season with a refreshing twist on a timeless classic: the Sidecar. This iconic cocktail has been delighting palates for over a century, and its versatility knows no bounds. From traditional takes to innovative infusions, we’ve rounded up 18 mouthwatering sidecar recipes that are sure to transport you to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of Sidecars, exploring the perfect balance of Cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice that defines the classic. But we won’t stop there – we’ve also included recipes that add a dash of spice, a splash of fruit, or a hint of herbs to create something truly unique.
So grab your shaker, don your finest cocktail attire, and get ready to experience the art of mixology like never before.
Traditional Sidecar with Orange Liqueur
A classic cocktail that combines the smoothness of cognac with the sweetness of orange liqueur, perfect for a sophisticated evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz Triple Sec (or other orange-flavored liqueur)
– 3/4 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Simple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the cognac, triple sec, and lemon juice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. If desired, add a small amount of simple syrup (1/4 oz) to balance the flavors.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your Traditional Sidecar with Orange Liqueur!
Bourbon Sidecar with Maple Syrup
Elevate the classic Sidecar cocktail by adding the richness of maple syrup and the warmth of bourbon. This sweet and tangy combination is perfect for those who prefer a little more complexity in their cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz maple syrup
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, triple sec, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Add the maple syrup and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a sugar-rimmed glass or coupe.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Ginger Sidecar with Fresh Ginger Juice
Revitalize your cocktail hour with this refreshing twist on the classic Sidecar. This recipe combines the spicy warmth of fresh ginger juice with the smoothness of Cognac and Triple Sec.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz Triple Sec
– 1/2 oz Fresh Ginger Juice (see below)
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Fresh Ginger Juice:
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine chopped ginger and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the ginger is tender.
2. Strain the ginger liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the solids.
3. Add sugar (if using) and stir until dissolved. Let cool.
4. In a cocktail shaker, combine Cognac, Triple Sec, fresh ginger juice, and simple syrup.
5. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
6. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None required
Spiced Sidecar with Cinnamon and Nutmeg
Warm up with this delightful twist on the classic Sidecar cocktail, featuring the comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces cognac
– 3/4 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Simple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add cognac, triple sec, and orange juice to the shaker.
3. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over the liquid ingredients.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. If desired, add a drizzle of simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water) to balance sweetness.
Cooking Time: None required! Just shake and serve.
Honey Sidecar with Lavender Infusion
Experience the sweet harmony of honey and lavender in this refined take on the classic sidecar cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz Triple Sec
– 3/4 oz Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Lavender-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Edible gold dust or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Cognac, Triple Sec, honey syrup, and lemon juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Drizzle the lavender-infused simple syrup in a spiral pattern on top of the cocktail.
6. Garnish with edible gold dust or sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make lavender-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and add 1/4 cup dried lavender buds. Let steep for at least 30 minutes before straining and using.
Smoky Sidecar with Mezcal
This twist on the classic Sidecar cocktail adds a smoky depth with the use of mezcal, perfect for those who enjoy a little complexity in their drinks. With its balanced blend of citrus, sweetness, and spice, this Smoky Sidecar is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces mezcal
– 3/4 ounce Cointreau or other triple sec
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 ounce honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– Dash of orange bitters
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the mezcal, Cointreau, orange juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of orange bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Raspberry Sidecar with Fresh Puree
A twist on the classic cocktail, this Raspberry Sidecar combines the tartness of raspberries with the richness of Cognac and a hint of citrus. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion where a refreshing drink is desired.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Cognac, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add fresh raspberries to the shaker and muddle gently to release their flavor and color.
3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with an additional raspberry, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Elderflower Sidecar with St-Germain
Elderflower Sidecar with St-Germain: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Cocktail
Elevate the classic Sidecar cocktail by infusing it with the sweet, floral flavors of elderflower liqueur and the subtle sweetness of St-Germain.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Egg white
– Dash of Angostura bitters
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Cognac, lemon juice, Elderflower liqueur, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add an egg white and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to emulsify.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Add a dash of Angostura bitters on top.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Pomegranate Sidecar with Grenadine
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Pomegranate Sidecar, infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of grenadine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces cognac
– 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed pomegranate juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce grenadine syrup
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the cognac, pomegranate juice, and triple sec.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a sugar-rimmed glass.
5. Add the grenadine syrup and stir gently to create a layered effect.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Lemon Basil Sidecar with Herb Infusion
Brighten up your evening with this refreshing and flavorful sidecar, infused with the essence of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup basil leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir to combine.
2. Add the fresh basil leaves to the pitcher and muddle gently with a spoon or muddler to release their oils and flavors.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour the infused sidecar mixture over the ice.
4. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh basil, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 0 minutes (cook)
Vanilla Sidecar with Bean-Infused Cognac
Elevate your cocktail game with this creamy, indulgent twist on the classic Sidecar recipe. By infusing bean flavors into the cognac, you’ll add depth and complexity to this velvety drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bean-infused cognac (see note)
– 3/4 oz Grand Marnier
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Vanilla extract to taste
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bean-infused cognac, Grand Marnier, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
4. Pour in heavy cream to create a layered effect.
5. Add a few drops of vanilla extract to taste.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and serve.
Note: To infuse bean flavors into your cognac, combine 1 cup of coffee beans with 1 bottle of cognac in an airtight container for at least 2 weeks. Strain before using.
Apple Cider Sidecar with Fall Spices
Warm up with this autumnal twist on the classic sidecar cocktail, infused with the cozy spices of fall. This Apple Cider Sidecar is perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing at your next harvest gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz apple cider syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/8 tsp ground cardamom
– Apple slice or cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Cognac, apple cider syrup, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom; muddle gently to release flavors.
3. Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: None
Tropical Sidecar with Pineapple Juice
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing twist on the classic Sidecar cocktail. Made with pineapple juice, dark rum, and Cointreau, this drink is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces dark rum
– 3/4 ounce Cointreau
– 2 ounces pineapple juice
– Splash of grenadine (optional)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the dark rum and Cointreau.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with pineapple juice and stir gently.
6. If desired, add a splash of grenadine for a touch of sweetness.
7. Garnish with a pineapple wedge or cherry.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (preparation only)
Peach Sidecar with Fresh Peach Puree
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic sidecar, featuring a sweet and tangy fresh peach puree.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac or Triple Sec
– 1/2 oz Grand Marnier
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the diced peaches until smooth.
2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the Cognac, Grand Marnier, and simple syrup.
3. Add 1-2 tablespoons of the peach puree to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Blackberry Sidecar with Muddled Berries
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing take on the classic Sidecar, featuring muddled blackberries and Cointreau.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz Cointreau
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– Simple syrup (optional)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries with the simple syrup (if using) until well-crushed.
2. Add the Cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (as it’s a cocktail!)
Spicy Sidecar with Jalapeño Infusion
Elevate your cocktail game with this spicy twist on the classic Sidecar. The jalapeño infusion adds a bold, fiery kick that complements the sweetness of the Cointreau and the tanginess of the lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces Cointreau or other orange-flavored liqueur
– 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
– Salt, for rimming glass
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the sliced jalapeños and simple syrup. Heat over low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers have lost their crunch and the mixture has infused with their spicy flavor.
2. Strain the infusion through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass. Discard the solids.
3. Rim a cocktail glass with salt.
4. Add the Cointreau, lemon juice, and jalapeño infusion to a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a slice of jalapeño, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chocolate Sidecar with Dark Cacao
Elevate your cocktail game with this indulgent treat that combines the deep flavors of dark cacao and creamy chocolate liqueur.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces white rum
– 1/2 ounce dark cacao liqueur (such as Godiva)
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– Whipped cream and shaved dark chocolate for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine rum, cacao liqueur, and heavy cream.
2. Add cocoa powder and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to emulsify the mixture.
3. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with whipped cream and shaved dark chocolate.
Cooking Time: None (cocktail preparation only)
Enjoy your rich and decadent Chocolate Sidecar with Dark Cacao!
Herbal Sidecar with Rosemary and Thyme
This refreshing twist on the classic Sidecar cocktail combines the herbal notes of rosemary and thyme with the richness of Cognac, perfect for a sophisticated evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 1/4 oz rosemary-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1/4 oz thyme-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Splash of soda water
– Fresh rosemary sprigs and thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Cognac, lemon juice, honey syrup, rosemary-infused simple syrup, and thyme-infused simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to shake things up with these 18 refreshing sidecar cocktail recipes! From traditional twists to innovative flavor combinations, this list has something for every palate. Try the classic orange liqueur-based Sidecar, or mix it up with bourbon and maple syrup, ginger juice, or cinnamon and nutmeg. Other unique options include honey-infused lavender, smoky mezcal, raspberry puree, and pomegranate grenadine. Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, herbal, or tropical flavors, there’s a Sidecar recipe here to quench your thirst.
