The Bocce Ball cocktail is like a summer afternoon in a glass—light, refreshing, and just the right mix of sweet and citrusy. With its blend of amaretto, fresh orange juice, and a splash of bubbly soda, it’s a simple drink that feels a little fancy. This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio, and I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner sips with you. It’s easy to make, fun to tweak, and always a hit with guests.
Bocce Ball
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 (easily scaled up for a crowd)
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) amaretto liqueur
– 3 oz (90 ml) fresh orange juice (about 1 medium orange)
– A splash of club soda (roughly 1 oz / 30 ml or to taste)
– Ice cubes
– Orange slice or maraschino cherry, for garnish
Equipment
– Highball glass or Collins glass
– Measuring jigger (or use a tablespoon: 1 oz = 2 tbsp)
– Spoon or stirrer
Method
- Fill your glass with ice—about 3/4 full is perfect.
- Pour in the amaretto.
- Add the orange juice. Freshly squeezed gives the drink a bright, clean flavor, but store-bought works in a pinch. Just go for pulp-free if you want a smoother sip.
- Top with a splash of club soda. Don’t overdo it—just enough to add some fizz.
- Give it a gentle stir to mix everything without flattening the bubbles.
- Garnish with an orange slice or a cherry. It adds a pop of color and a little extra flair.
Tips & Tricks
– Fresh juice makes a difference. It really brings out the brightness of the drink.
– Go easy on the amaretto if you’re not into sweet cocktails. You can always add more later.
– Pour the soda last and stir gently so it stays fizzy.
– Want it colder? Chill the glass beforehand or use larger ice cubes that melt slower.
Make-Ahead Notes
If you’re serving a crowd, mix the amaretto and orange juice ahead of time in a pitcher. Keep it chilled in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, pour over ice and top each glass with club soda individually so it stays bubbly.
Substitutions
– No amaretto? Try hazelnut liqueur for a nuttier twist or almond syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
– Want less sugar? Use a squeeze of lemon or a splash of bitters to cut the sweetness.
– No club soda? Flavored sparkling water (like orange or lemon) can add a fun twist.
Storage
Leftover mix (amaretto + orange juice) will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days in a sealed container. Just don’t add the soda until you’re ready to drink—it’ll go flat.
Serving Suggestions
This drink shines at brunches, backyard BBQs, or as a light aperitif before dinner. Try pairing it with:
Grilled Chicken
The caramelized edges of grilled chicken match beautifully with the sweet nuttiness of the amaretto.
Fresh Summer Salads
Especially ones with fruit, goat cheese, or toasted almonds. The drink mirrors those flavors in such a tasty way.
Spicy Snacks
Think jalapeño poppers or spicy wings. The sweetness of the Bocce Ball cools the heat just right.
I’ve made this drink countless times—here’s a tip I learned while perfecting the recipe: if you want to bring out the almond flavor without making the drink too sweet, try adding a tiny pinch of sea salt. It sounds odd, but it balances everything out!
Variations to Try
Summer Breeze Bocce
– Swap orange juice for pineapple juice
– Add a splash of coconut cream
– Garnish with a pineapple wedge
Creamy, tropical, and oh-so-smooth.
Berry Blast Bocce
– Muddle fresh raspberries or blackberries in the bottom of the glass
– Use lemonade instead of orange juice
– Top with soda and garnish with a few whole berries
This one’s tangy, fruity, and perfect for berry season.
Italian Sunset
– Add a splash of Campari for a bittersweet kick
– Garnish with an orange twist
A little more grown-up, with a beautiful color gradient in the glass.
Mocktail Version
– Use almond syrup (like orgeat) instead of amaretto
– Mix with fresh orange juice
– Top with club soda
It’s refreshing and festive—great for kids or anyone skipping alcohol.
FAQs
Can I use bottled orange juice?
You can, but fresh really makes a difference. If you go bottled, choose one that’s not from concentrate and has no added sugar.
Is it a strong drink?
Not really. Amaretto is lower in alcohol than most spirits, and the juice and soda mellow it out even more.
Can I make this in a big batch?
Absolutely. Just mix the amaretto and juice, and top each serving with soda when ready.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less amaretto, more soda, and a splash of lemon or a dash of bitters.
Is there a non-alcoholic amaretto?
Yep! Look for almond-flavored syrups like orgeat or non-alcoholic amaretto alternatives.
Final Sip
The Bocce Ball is one of those cocktails that’s easy to love and even easier to make. Whether you’re lounging on the deck or hosting friends, it’s the kind of drink that brings a little sunshine to your glass. Play around with the variations, mix up a pitcher, and find your favorite version. Cheers!
