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–+ servings

Sidecar Cocktail Recipe

A classic cocktail with a perfect balance of citrus and warmth, the Sidecar combines cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice for a smooth yet zesty flavor.
The optional sugar-rimmed glass adds a touch of sweetness to contrast the tart citrus notes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Course Drinks
Servings 1

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ounces cognac or brandy
  • ¾ ounce orange liqueur
  • ¾ ounce lemon juice
  • Garnish: Orange twist, sugar rim (optional)

Variations

Bourbon Sidecar

  • Swap the cognac for bourbon and incorporate a teaspoon of sugar to enhance the sweetness.

Bourbon Grapefruit Sidecar

  • Use bourbon as the base spirit instead of cognac. Replace the lemon juice with 1 ounce of grapefruit juice. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.

Blood Orange Sidecar

  • Substitute the orange liqueur with blood orange liqueur, and replace the lemon juice with blood orange juice for a fruitier variation.

Instructions
 

  • Moisten the rim of a glass and coat it with sugar if desired. Set aside.
  • Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
  • Strain the mixture into the prepared glass. Garnish with an orange twist and serve immediately.
Keyword blood orange sidecar, bourbon sidecar, citrus cocktails, classic sidecar, cocktail recipes, cognac cocktails, Easy cocktail recipe, home bartending, shaken cocktails
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