11 Amarula Cocktails: How To Make Classic Cocktails Better
In the ever-evolving world of mixology where trends come and go, (just check out some of the pro-bartenders on you tube – just make sure you have time to go down THAT rabbit hole!), there’s a timeless elegance in classic cocktails that continue to be our mainstay. Their beauty lies in the simplicity of ingredients and the artistry of balance. And, while you may enjoy your favorite classics –mine is an Old Fashioned with Rye Whiskey – you’re also adventurous, right? On to the Amarula cocktails we go!
This post will show you how to take your favorite classic cocktails to a whole new level with a touch of African sophistication. So, let’s shake up the classics with a creamy liqueur derived from the exotic marula fruit native to sub-Saharan Africa. And, just for good measure – I have some bonus Amarula Cocktails that you’ll want to try at the end of this post.
Table of Contents
What is Amarula?
Before we dive into the world of Amarula cocktails, let’s unravel the mystique behind this unique liqueur. Amarula is crafted from the succulent fruit of the marula tree, also known as the “elephant tree” due to its popularity among elephants. They love the fermented fruit that falls from the tree, but it’s just a myth that they become intoxicated. They’re just too darn big!
The Marula tree is indigenous to the plains of Africa and the marula fruit’s creamy flesh serves as the foundation for this luscious liqueur. It has a very distinctive flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and just a hint of citrus. Amarula cocktails will bring a taste of the African wilderness into your home or get togethers.
Amarula’s History
Amarula’s journey from a local African delicacy to a globally celebrated liqueur begins in the heart of the continent. It’s creation dates back to the mid-1980s when the distinctive marula fruit, known as the “elephant fruit,” became the star ingredient in a new liqueur. Indigenous to the sub-Saharan plains, the marula fruit had long been enjoyed by locals for its unique flavor and creamy texture, however it was only in 1989 that it was officially introduced to the world.
Initially crafted by South African producers, Amarula gained popularity as a unique and decadent liqueur. The process involves fermenting the marula fruit, distilling it into a spirit, and then blending it with velvety cream to create the final product. The result is a rich, caramel-infused concoction with hints of vanilla and a touch of citrus.
Amarula’s ascent to international recognition can be attributed to its distinct flavor profile and the cultural narrative it carries. The liqueur’s popularity grew steadily as it made its way onto the global stage, becoming a unique addition to the world of spirits. The early 2000s marked a turning point as it began to appear on the shelves of bars and liquor stores around the world, making way for a variety of Amarula cocktails to be introduced.
The brand’s efforts to promote sustainability and ethical sourcing of marula fruit further contribute to its positive image. Notably, the marula tree is crucial to the ecosystem, and the company has been committed to supporting local communities while preserving the environment.
Today, Amarula stands as a testament to the power of cultural authenticity in the world of spirits. It has not only found its place in classic cocktails, as discussed earlier, but has also become a sought-after ingredient for innovative mixologists and home bartenders alike. The story of Amarula showcases how a local treasure can evolve into a global sensation, inviting enthusiasts worldwide to savor the essence of Africa in every decadent drop of their Amarula cocktails.
Amarula’s Versatility
What sets this liqueur apart is its versatility. While it can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, its velvety texture and complex flavor profile make it an ideal companion for classic cocktails. Let’s explore how adding this creamy liqueur creates unique Amarula Cocktails that elevate some of your favorites.
Beyond Amarula cocktails this liqueur finds its place in the realm of desserts, adding a touch of sophistication to classics like tiramisu or as a decadent drizzle over ice cream. The sweet, fruity undertones lend themselves beautifully to culinary experiments, like these chicken wings, turning a bottle into a versatile kitchen companion. From aperitifs to desserts, the possibilities are as vast as the African landscapes that inspire its creation. In the world of spirits, Amarula stands not just as a drink but as a canvas for the creativity of enthusiasts to reimagine the boundaries of culinary exploration as well.
Buying Amarula
It’s readily available in most major liquor stores. It costs around $20-$25 for 750L, so you can serve up something quite unique for a special get-together without breaking the bank. Invite your friends over and whip up some Amarula cocktails that are sure to be a hit.
Let’s Explore Amarula Cocktails Built On The Classics
White Russian
The classic White Russian is a cocktail as timeless as it is indulgent. It artfully blends the richness of coffee liqueur with the smooth embrace of vodka, all crowned with a luscious layer of velvety cream. This iconic libation is a study in contrasts, marrying the bold flavors of coffee and alcohol with the luxuriant texture of cream.
Classic White Russian Recipe
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Coffee Liqueur
- Cream
Instructions: Build the ingredients over ice in a lowball glass. Stir gently and top with cream.
Amarula White Russian Recipe
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Coffee Liqueur
- 1 oz Amarula
- Cream
Instructions: Build the ingredients over ice in a lowball glass. Stir gently and top with cream.
Espresso Martini
The classic Espresso Martini brings together the bold flavors of freshly brewed espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur. Crafted with precision and shaken to frothy perfection, this cocktail is a caffeinated masterpiece that transcends its humble origins. Served in a chilled martini glass, the Espresso Martini is a sophisticated libation that is perfect for both nightcaps and energetic evenings alike.
Classic Espresso Martini Recipe
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Coffee Liqueur
- 1 oz Amarula
- 1 oz Freshly Brewed Espresso
Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice in a shaker and strain into a chilled martini glass.
Amarula Espresso martini Recipe
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Coffee Liqueur
- 1 oz Amarula
- 1 oz Freshly Brewed Espresso
Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice in a shaker and strain into a chilled martini glass.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned originally referred to a style of mixology: mixing a spirit, water, sugar, and bitters. Legends abound as to who invented it, but this classic has been around since the 19th century. The Old Fashioned is a symphony of flavors that reminds me of Christmas. The Old Fashioned is more than a drink; it’s a ritual, an embodiment of the artistry that lies in the union of just a few high-quality ingredients.
Classic Old Fashioned Recipe
- 2 oz Rye or Bourbon Whiskey
- 1 sugar cube
- 3-4 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Splash of soda water
- Orange peel garnish
Instructions: Build this cocktail in a heavy rocks glass. Put the sugar cube in with bitters and just a small splash of soda water (enough to wet the cube). Then muddle it to break up the sugar. Add a large ice cube, pour the Whiskey over the ice. Stir well to chill. Use a peeler to make a large orange peel garnish. Rim the glass with it and then put into the cocktail.
Amarula Old Fashioned Recipe
- 2 oz Rye or Bourbon
- 1 oz Amarula
- 1 sugar cube (optional)
- 3-4 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Orange peel garnish
Instructions: Build this cocktail in a heavy rocks glass. Put the sugar cube in with bitters and just a small splash of soda water (enough to wet the cube). Then muddle it to break up the sugar. Add a large ice cube, pour the Amarula and Whiskey over the ice. Stir well to chill. Use a peeler to make a large orange peel garnish. Rim the glass with it and then put into the cocktail.
Mojito
The classic Mojito, a refreshing masterpiece born in the vibrant streets of Havana, embodies the epitome of summer libations. A delightful fusion of fresh mint leaves, zesty lime, pure cane sugar, and a generous pour of white rum, the Mojito is a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.
Classic Mojito Recipe
- 2 oz White Rum
- 1 oz Simple Syrup
- 1 Lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh Mint Leaves
- Soda Water
Instructions: Muddle lime wedges and mint leaves in a highball glass. Add rum, Amarula, and simple syrup. Fill the glass with ice and top with soda water. Stir gently.
Amarula Mojito Recipe
- 2 oz White Rum
- 1 oz Amarula
- 1 oz Simple Syrup
- 1 Lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh Mint Leaves
- Soda Water
Instructions: Muddle lime wedges and mint leaves in a highball glass. Add rum, Amarula, and simple syrup. Fill the glass with ice and top with soda water. Stir gently.
Whiskey Highball
Comprised of only whiskey and soda water, this iconic drink is a celebration of the spirit’s robust flavors harmoniously elevated by sparkling water. Served over ice in a highball glass, the Whiskey Highball is a refreshing and uncomplicated indulgence. Its charm lies in the balance between the warmth of the whiskey and the crispness of the soda.
Classic Whiskey Highball Recipe
- 2 oz Whiskey
- Soda Water to taste
Fill a highball glass with ice, pour 2 oz of whiskey, and top it off with soda water. Stir gently and garnish as desired.
Amarula Whiskey Highball Recipe
- 2 oz Whiskey
- 1 oz Amarula
- Soda Water to taste
Fill a highball glass with ice, pour 2 oz of whiskey and 1 oz of Amarula. Top it off with soda water, stir gently, and garnish as desired.
Margarita
The classic Margarita is a beloved icon in the world of cocktails. Crafted with the trifecta of tequila, cointreau, and fresh lime juice, this libation strikes a perfect balance between sweet, sour, and the distinctive flavor profile of tequila. Served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass, the Margarita is a timeless celebration of bold flavors and enduring charm of well-crafted simplicity.
Classic Margarita Recipe
- 2 oz Tequila
- 1 oz Cointreau
- 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- Salt for rimming
To make a classic Margarita, fill a shaker with ice and add 2 oz tequila, 1 oz Cointreau, and 1 oz fresh lime juice. Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy your refreshing Margarita!
Amarula Margarita Recipe
- 2 oz Tequila
- 1 oz Amarula
- 1 oz Triple Sec or Cointreau
- 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- Salt (for rimming, optional)
In a shaker, combine tequila, Amarula, triple sec, and fresh lime juice. Shake the ingredients vigorously with ice until well-chilled. If desired, rim the glass with salt. Strain the mixture into a margarita glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge. This Amarula Margarita offers a delightful fusion of the classic cocktail with the rich and creamy notes of Amarula. Enjoy!
Martini
The classic Martini is a cocktail of elegant simplicity. Comprised of gin or vodka, a hint of dry vermouth, and garnished with either a twist of lemon or an olive, the Martini is a harmonious blend of botanicals and subtlety. Served impeccably chilled in a stemmed glass, the Martini transcends trends, inviting connoisseurs to savor the purity of its ingredients and the balance struck between the chosen spirit and the aromatic vermouth.
Classic Martini Recipe
- 2 oz Gin or Vodka
- 1/2 oz Dry Vermouth
In a mixing glass, combine gin or vodka and dry vermouth. Stir well with ice until chilled, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or an olive.
Amarula Whiskey Highball Recipe
- 2 oz Whiskey
- 1 oz Amarula
- Soda Water to taste
In a mixing glass, combine gin or vodka and Amarula. Stir well with ice until chilled, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a twist of orange peel.
Try These Amarula Cocktails, Too!
Now that you’ve woven the enchanting touch of Amarula cocktails into the fabric of classic drinks, it’s time to go on a journey of mixological innovation. Venture beyond the familiar and explore a realm of creativity with original concoctions that spotlight the distinctive flavors of this South African cream liqueur.
Picture a tapestry of flavors where the velvety richness of Amarula intertwines with unexpected ingredients, creating symphonies that awaken the palate and redefine the boundaries of cocktail craftsmanship.
Amarula is not just an ingredient but a muse, inspiring a new era of libation artistry with unique Amarula cocktails being created regularly – you might just create your own concoction as well! Get ready to experience the extraordinary as we delve into a world where tradition meets ingenuity, and the result is nothing short of liquid poetry.
African Sunset
- 1 1/2 oz Amarula
- 1 oz Coconut Rum
- 2 oz Pineapple Juice
- Splash of Grenadine
Instructions
Instructions: Shake the Amarula, coconut rum, and pineapple juice with ice. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Slowly pour grenadine over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.
Velvet Dream
- 1 1/2 oz Amarula
- 1 oz Chocolate Liqueur
- 1/2 oz Vanilla Vodka
- 1 oz Cream
Instructions
Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass.
Spiced Chai Delight
- 1 1/2 oz Amarula
- 1 oz Spiced Chai Tea (cooled)
- 1/2 oz Honey Syrup
- Cinnamon Stick (for garnish)
Instructions
Instructions: Combine Amarula, spiced chai tea, and honey syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a lowball glass over ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Amarula Ginger Fizz
- 2 oz Amarula
- 1 oz Ginger Liqueur
- 1/2 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- Ginger Beer
Instructions
Instructions: Shake Amarula, ginger liqueur, and lemon juice with ice. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice and top with ginger beer.
Conclusion
In the realm of mixology, innovation often arises from the fusion of tradition and experimentation (I mean, don’t do this with my tacos, but I’m game for fusion style cocktails). With its African roots and sophisticated flavor profile it is natural to reimagine classic cocktails. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or an adventurous home bartender, incorporating Amarula Cocktails into your repertoire opens up a world of possibilities. It gives you a chance to treat your guests to something unique as well.
As you embark on this journey of flavor exploration, remember that the essence of mixology lies in the art of balance and the pursuit of excellence. So, raise your glass to the timeless classics and the vibrant spirit of Africa, and let Amarula cocktails give way to a new era of cocktail elegance. Cheers to the fusion of tradition and innovation, and to the endless possibilities that lie within the depths of the unique and interesting Amarula cocktails.
