Italian Delight Cocktail – Amaretto, Cream & Orange Twist
A creamy, nutty indulgence with a citrus lift — the Italian Delight Cocktail blends amaretto, cream, and a splash of orange juice for a smooth dessert sipper that feels like a trip to Italy in a glass.
A smooth and creamy cocktail that merges nutty Amaretto with fresh orange juice and silky cream. The Italian Delight Cocktail delivers a balanced blend of sweetness, richness, and citrus brightness — a dessert-style drink that feels indulgent yet refreshing.
Background
Though not a classic by name, the Italian Delight borrows from Italy’s love of almond-flavored liqueurs and creamy desserts. Its flavor profile echoes the country’s penchant for Amaretto-based sweets like tiramisu and almond biscotti, translating them into liquid form.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Amaretto – the sweet, almond-flavored liqueur that defines this drink.
- Cream – adds velvety texture and luxurious body.
- Orange Juice – introduces a hint of citrus acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Maraschino Cherry – for garnish and a touch of color.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer (fine mesh recommended)
- Cocktail glass
Creamy Citrus Harmony
The Italian Delight stands out for its balance: the nutty sweetness of Amaretto, the smooth body of cream, and the bright spark of orange. It’s both comforting and elegant — a perfect finisher after dinner or a treat on a cozy evening.
Substitutions & Variations
- Replace cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free tropical twist.
- Swap orange juice for blood orange juice for a deeper color and richer flavor.
- Add a splash of vodka to boost strength without changing the flavor much.
- For a dessert drink, top with light whipped cream and grated nutmeg.
Helpful Tips
- Always shake hard; cream needs aeration for that silky texture.
- Chill your glassware to prevent curdling when cream meets citrus.
- Pair with biscotti, tiramisu, or white chocolate for a themed treat.
- Batch small portions in advance, but shake each serving fresh for best foam.
Italian Delight Recipe
Type of Glass
Cocktail Glass
Ingredients
- 1 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1 1/2 oz.
Directions
- Add Amaretto, cream, and orange juice to a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled and slightly frothy.
- Double-strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
A smooth blend of nutty sweetness and citrus brightness — the Italian Delight turns every sip into a little taste of la dolce vita.
