Thunder Cloud Vodka Sour with Blue Curaçao and Amaretto
A bright blue twist on the classic vodka sour.
The Thunder Cloud Vodka Sour mixes vodka, amaretto, and blue curaçao with fresh lemon for a balanced, easy-to-make drink that’s as colorful as it is refreshing.
A home-bar favorite for anyone who loves citrus and color, the Thunder Cloud Vodka Sour blends vodka, amaretto, and blue curaçao into a smooth balance of sweet, tart, and nutty. The vivid hue makes it an instant conversation piece while staying simple enough for any beginner to shake.
Background
Inspired by 1990s party cocktails, the Thunder Cloud modernizes the “blue sour” style with less sugar and a cleaner balance. It keeps the dramatic look but delivers a fresher, lighter flavor fit for today’s home bar.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Vodka – crisp base that carries the citrus and nut flavors.
- Amaretto – adds warmth and subtle almond sweetness.
- Blue Curaçao – provides orange notes and that signature blue color.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – bright acidity for balance.
- Simple Syrup – smooths the tartness just enough.
- Lemon-Lime Soda – a sparkling top that keeps it lively.
Equipment
- Hurricane or highball glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
Why You’ll Love It
Sweet-Tart Clarity
Every sip balances nutty sweetness and citrus zing—refreshing, not heavy.
Easy to Mix
Just shake, strain, and top. No complex syrups or obscure bottles.
Show-Ready Color
The vivid blue layer makes it a fun crowd pleaser for casual gatherings.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap amaretto for crème de noyaux for a deeper almond-cherry flavor and a light pink tint.
- Use hazelnut liqueur for a toasty twist.
- Try club soda instead of lemon-lime for a drier finish.
- Add a few drops of orange bitters to cut sweetness.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry depending on mood.
Helpful Tips
- Shake with cold, solid ice to maintain clarity.
- Strain gently to keep bubbles crisp before topping with soda.
- Serve immediately—layers fade if left standing.
- For batched service, pre-mix everything but soda and keep chilled.
Thunder Cloud Recipe
Type of Glass
Hurricane Glass
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 1 oz.
- 1/4 oz.
Directions
- Fill a hurricane glass with ice.
- Shake vodka, amaretto, blue curaçao, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice until chilled.
- Strain into the glass.
- Top with lemon-lime soda.
- Stir gently or layer slowly for a gradient effect.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or cherry.
A simple, colorful vodka sour that’s easy to master and even easier to enjoy.
