Smoked Cherry Vanilla Amaretto Sour

This Smoked Cherry Vanilla Amaretto Sour leans into balance—sweet almond notes from amaretto, tart lemon, and deep cherry flavor with a subtle hint of smoke. By lightly smoking the cherries (or cherry syrup) instead of relying purely on sweetness, the drink gains complexity without becoming heavy.

Vanilla rounds everything out, adding warmth and depth that pairs beautifully with amaretto’s natural nuttiness. The result is a cocktail that feels elevated but still approachable, perfect for backyard hangs, holiday spreads, or a slow evening by the smoker.

If you’re already running a smoker for ribs or chicken, this drink fits right into that rhythm. A quick cold-smoke step transforms simple ingredients into something that feels crafted and intentional.

This cocktail shines when served ice-cold with a dense foam cap. If you want a deeper smoke presence, lightly smoke the finished drink under a glass dome for 10–15 seconds just before serving. It pairs especially well with smoked nuts, dark chocolate, or anything coming off the pit with a little char.