The Godfather cocktail is one of those drinks that just feels right. It’s smooth, a little sweet, and has a quiet confidence about it. With only two ingredients—Scotch and amaretto—it’s incredibly simple to make but still feels like something special.
This is the kind of drink you can throw together in under a minute, whether you’re kicking back after a long day or pouring something nice for a guest. No need for shakers or fancy tools—just a glass, some ice, and a quick pour. I’ll walk you through how to make it.
How to Make a Godfather Cocktail
Equipment
- Old-fashioned glass (or any short glass)
- Jigger or shot glass (for measuring)
- Bar spoon (or regular spoon for stirring)
- Ice (enough to fill the glass)
Ingredients
- 2 oz 60 ml Scotch whisky
- ½ oz 15 ml amaretto liqueur
- Ice cubes enough to fill the glass
Instructions
- Fill your glass with ice – You want it nice and chilled.
- Pour in the Scotch whisky – 2 oz (or a double shot).
- Add the amaretto – Just ½ oz is enough to sweeten it up without overpowering.
- Give it a gentle stir – About 5–10 seconds to mix without diluting.
- Serve immediately – No garnish needed, but you can add an orange twist if you like.
Video
Notes
- Choose your whisky wisely: A smooth blended Scotch works best. You don’t need top-shelf, but avoid harsh bottles.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: Prefer a stiffer drink? Try a 4:1 ratio of whisky to amaretto.
- Serve it your way: Over ice is classic, but you can go neat for a more intense sip.
- Switch it up: Substitute bourbon for a sweeter, vanilla-forward twist on this cocktail.
When to Serve a Godfather: Vibes, Occasions, and Unexpected Pairings
The Godfather isn’t your average “just mix it and go” cocktail—it’s got a presence. It’s the kind of drink that almost sets the mood for you, so choosing the right moment to serve it makes all the difference.
Think slow, low-lit nights. The Godfather feels like jazz in drink form—smooth, rich, and unhurried. It’s not made for loud clubs or beach parties. It belongs in cozy living rooms, after-dinner conversations, rainy nights, solo reflections, or a small group of friends talking about life at 1 a.m. It’s a sit-and-sip cocktail.
Occasions That Fit Perfectly
- Post-Dinner Chill – Replace dessert with this. It’s not too sweet but scratches that after-meal itch.
- Fire Pit or Winter Hangouts – That smoky warmth from the whisky makes it perfect for cold weather.
- Cigar Night or Poker Game – Old-school, masculine energy pairs well with this drink’s vibe.
- Impress-the-Guest Moment – Easy to make but feels thoughtful, which makes you look like you know what you’re doing.
Surprising Pairings That Actually Work
- Dark Chocolate (70% and up) – The bitterness complements the sweet almond and smooth whisky.
- Smoked Almonds – Mirrors the amaretto and brings out savory notes.
- Aged Cheese (like Gouda or Manchego) – Salty, rich, and oddly perfect with that sweet-nutty amaretto note.
- Charcuterie – Yes, this cocktail can hold its own with meats like prosciutto or salami.
- Espresso on the Side – Take it to the next level: one sip of espresso, one sip of Godfather. Magic.
What Type of Scotch Changes the Whole Game?
Not all Scotch is created equal, and when you’re mixing it with something as bold and sweet as amaretto, the choice matters a lot. The Godfather is simple, which means every flavor shows up to the party with no place to hide.
Here’s how Different Scotches Change the Character
- Blended Scotch (like Johnnie Walker Red/Black, Famous Grouse): Smooth, mild, balanced. Great for the “classic” Godfather taste. Slight smoke, mellow finish.
- Islay Scotch (like Laphroaig, Ardbeg): Bold, peaty, smoky—these turn the Godfather into a smoked almond experience. Not for the faint of heart.
- Speyside Scotch (like Glenlivet, Glenfiddich): Light, fruity, floral. These bring a softer, more elegant tone—perfect for a lighter, silkier version.
- Highland Scotch (like Oban, Macallan): Rich and complex. You get spice, malt, sometimes a little sherry influence. These make a Godfather with serious depth.
Pro tip: If you’re experimenting, keep the amaretto dialed down (¼ oz or less) when using a fancy or smoky Scotch.
Final Thoughts
The Godfather cocktail proves you don’t need a long ingredient list or fancy tools to make something that feels timeless. It’s smooth, bold, and just sweet enough to keep you coming back for another sip. Whether you stick to the classic or put your own spin on it, this drink brings mood, style, and a little bit of mystery every time it hits the glass.
