There’s something undeniably cozy about a Toasted Almond cocktail. Creamy, lightly sweet, and kissed with the rich flavor of almonds and coffee, it’s the kind of drink that feels like a warm blanket in a glass. I’ve made this drink countless times—especially on chilly nights when I want something indulgent yet easy. It’s a classic after-dinner sipper, and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s stood the test of time.
Toasted Almond
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Rocks glass (or a martini glass for a fancier touch)
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) Amaretto
– 1 oz (30 ml) Kahlúa (or any coffee liqueur)
– 2 oz (60 ml) Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
– Ice (for shaking and serving)
– Optional garnish: Ground nutmeg, coffee beans, or toasted almond flakes
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the Amaretto, Kahlúa, and heavy cream.
- Shake well—about 15 seconds—until the drink is cold and frothy. A good shake really brings out that creamy texture.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. If you’re feeling fancy, chill the glass first.
- Top with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a couple of coffee beans for aroma and presentation.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the Amaretto, Kahlúa, and cream ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake with fresh ice before serving to bring back the frothiness.
Tips & Tricks
– Shake hard—cream-based drinks need energy to emulsify and get that smooth, velvety texture.
– If you want a stronger almond flavor, add a drop of almond extract. A little goes a long way.
– Don’t skip the garnish! A light dusting of nutmeg or some toasted almond flakes takes this from “nice” to “wow.”
Ingredient Swaps
– Amaretto: Swap with almond syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
– Kahlúa: Try another coffee liqueur, or use a coffee syrup if going alcohol-free.
– Heavy Cream: Use milk, half-and-half, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. Almond milk works too, but the drink will be a bit thinner.
How It Tastes
Toasted Almond tastes like a dessert in a glass—rich and smooth with a nutty sweetness and a gentle coffee note. The cream rounds everything out into a silky finish. I always describe it as the grown-up version of a milkshake.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is perfect after dinner or as a cozy nightcap. Here are a few things it pairs beautifully with:
Chocolate Desserts
Chocolate cake, brownies, or even truffles—anything rich and chocolaty plays nicely with the almond and coffee flavors.
Cheese Board
Mild, nutty cheeses like Gouda or Havarti bring out the cocktail’s subtler flavors. Add some dried fruit and you’ve got a full dessert spread.
Spiced Nuts
A bowl of warm, spiced almonds or pecans adds crunch and a little heat that balances the cocktail’s sweetness.
Variations to Try
Spiked Toasted Almond
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) vodka for extra kick.
– Follow the same shake-and-strain method.
Frozen Toasted Almond
– Blend all ingredients with 1 cup of crushed ice until smooth.
– Serve in a chilled glass for a summer-friendly version.
Chocolate Toasted Almond
– Add 1 tbsp (15 ml) chocolate syrup to the shaker.
– Or drizzle it inside the glass before pouring for a decorative touch.
Virgin Toasted Almond
– Use almond syrup and coffee syrup instead of the liqueurs.
– Mix with cream or your favorite non-dairy milk for a booze-free treat.
Common Questions
Can I make it without cream?
You can use milk or a plant-based alternative like almond or coconut milk. Just know it might not be quite as thick and creamy.
Can I serve it warm?
Yes! Gently heat the cream on the stove (don’t boil), then stir in the liqueurs. Skip the shaker and serve in a mug.
What if I don’t have a cocktail shaker?
Use a mason jar with a tight lid. Shake until the outside feels cold—about 15 seconds.
Is it strong?
Not really. This cocktail is on the lighter side in terms of alcohol, which makes it easy to sip and enjoy slowly.
How can I make it healthier?
Use light cream or milk, and try sugar-free versions of the liqueurs or syrups if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Final Thoughts
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails because the Toasted Almond is just too good to keep to myself. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or entertaining friends, this creamy cocktail brings a little indulgence to any occasion. Try it once, and I bet it’ll become one of your go-to comfort drinks too.
