Sidecar Recipes – The Sidecar is one of the most iconic cocktails in the world, representing the elegance and sophistication of early 20th-century mixology. With its striking balance of citrus, sweetness, and the deep warmth of cognac, this cocktail has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
Whether served at a glamorous dinner party or enjoyed as a refined evening drink, the Sidecar delivers a smooth, zesty, and perfectly balanced flavor profile.
Recipe Overview
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Cuisine: French / American
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Course: Cocktail
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Servings: 1 drink
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Calories: 160–190 per serving
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Active Time: 5 minutes
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Resting Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients (1 Serving)
Main Ingredients
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2 oz (60 ml) cognac (VS or VSOP recommended)
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1 oz (30 ml) orange liqueur (Cointreau preferred)
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¾ oz (22 ml) fresh lemon juice
For the Garnish
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Lemon twist
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Sugar (optional, for rim)
Ice
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Ice cubes (for shaking)
Equipment Needed
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Cocktail shaker
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Jigger
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Citrus juicer
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Fine strainer
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Coupe or martini glass
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Small plate for sugar rim (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Glass
If you want a sugared rim, run a lemon wedge around the edge of the coupe glass.
Dip the rim into sugar and set it aside to dry.
2. Add Ingredients to the Shaker
Add cognac, orange liqueur, and freshly squeezed lemon juice into a cocktail shaker.
3. Add Ice and Shake
Fill the shaker with ice cubes, then shake vigorously for about 10–12 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain the Cocktail
Double strain into the prepared chilled coupe or martini glass to remove ice shards and pulp.
5. Garnish and Serve
Twist a strip of lemon peel over the glass to release its aromatic oils, then drop it in or rest it on the rim.
Serve immediately and enjoy.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160–190 kcal |
| Sugar | 6–10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7–11 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Alcohol Content | Approx. 22–25% ABV |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 0–2 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
These values will vary based on the brands of cognac and orange liqueur used.
Tips for Making the Perfect Sidecar
Use Quality Cognac
VSOP is ideal for richer flavor and aromatic depth.
Don’t Skip Fresh Lemon Juice
Bottled lemon juice dramatically changes the taste—fresh is essential.
Balance Is Key
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less orange liqueur.
Chill Your Glass
A cold glass helps maintain the cocktail’s smooth, crisp texture.
Shake Hard
Shaking blends the citrus and alcohol while creating a silky mouthfeel.
Final Thoughts
The Sidecar stands among the most celebrated cocktails ever created—smooth, citrusy, elegant, and endlessly enjoyable. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or sipping one on a quiet evening, the Sidecar offers a refined cocktail experience that never goes out of style. With thoughtful preparation and quality ingredients, you can craft a perfect Sidecar in just minutes.
