Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Syrup
The combination of almond and apricot creates amaretto's distinctive marzipan-like flavor.
The combination of almond and apricot creates amaretto's distinctive marzipan-like flavor.
- 1 teaspoonalmond extract
- 2 tablespoonsapricot preserves(strained)
- 1/2 teaspoonvanilla extract
- 1 cupwater
- 1 cupwhite sugar
- 1Remove from heat and add almond and vanilla extracts.
- 2Stir well to combine.
- 3Refrigerate for up to one month.
Store in a sealed glass bottle in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. The flavor mellows slightly over time; add a small amount of almond extract when refreshing or making a new batch if the intensity diminishes. Keep refrigerated.
Use high-quality pure almond extract — imitation almond extract contains artificial benzaldehyde that produces a harsher, more chemical flavor. The apricot preserves or jam should be strained to remove fruit solids before adding to the syrup for a cleaner result. Taste and adjust: more extract pushes the almond note forward, more apricot adds fruitiness and complexity.
Amaretto is an Italian liqueur whose name means "a little bitter" — referring to the slight bitterness of the apricot kernel or almond that defines its flavor. The most famous commercial version, Disaronno Originale, traces its origin story to Renaissance Saronno in 1525, though the modern product was formalized in the early 20th century. Lazzaroni, another historic producer, claims their amaretto dates to 1851. The defining flavor — a sweet, marzipan-like almond and apricot character — comes from either bitter almond, apricot kernels (which contain benzaldehyde, the same aromatic compound), or a combination of both. A non-alcoholic amaretto syrup captures this flavor profile using food-grade almond extract and apricot preserves, allowing the distinctive taste to be used in NA cocktails, culinary applications, and as a mixer without the alcohol or expense of the full liqueur.
**Spiced Amaretto Syrup** — Add one cinnamon stick and two cloves during steeping for a warm, festive variation ideal in holiday cocktails and hot toddies. **Cherry Amaretto Syrup** — Add two tablespoons of sour cherry preserves for a fruity, slightly tart version that mimics amaretto sour flavor profiles. **Rich Amaretto Syrup** — Use a two-to-one sugar ratio for a thicker, more intensely flavored syrup that holds up in creamy cocktails and dessert applications.
Contains tree nuts (almond extract). Free from the remaining top-8 allergens. Those with tree nut or almond allergies must avoid this syrup. Check apricot preserve labels for additional allergens such as sulfites in some brands.