The Classic Godfather Cocktail & Modern Takes

Take a sip of power with this golden classic. We dare you not to quote the movie after your first sip.

Published July 17, 2023
Refreshing Boozy Scotch Godfather Cocktail

You're about to make a cocktail that no one can refuse. You'll need to prepare for people asking you about your business with this cocktail, so have your recipe handy. In fact, after sharing this drink with friends, you can expect friends to come into your house on the day your daughter is to be married, and ask you for ... the Godfather cocktail.

The Godfather Cocktail

Godfather alcoholic cocktail

This cocktail is a drink that tastes best when it's cold. Or just given a good stir to mix the ingredients well.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a mixing glass, add ice, scotch, and amaretto.
  2. Stir rapidly to chill.
  3. Strain into rocks glass over fresh ice.
  4. Take the cannoli.

Whisky Options for the Godfather Cocktail

Glass of whiskey with ice with barrels

Traditionally, you'll find a blended scotch in the Godfather, but you can rely on different whiskies, and even bourbon, to help you arrive at your drink destination.

  • Tennessee whiskey will give the Godfather a sweet caramel and vanilla flavor
  • Canadian whisky creates a Godfather with a spiced and butterscotch flavor
  • Bourbon gives the Godfather a subtle heat, but creates a smooth, brown sugar cocktail
  • Scotch creates a Godfather with a smokey and smooth flavor, with soft notes of orange peel and vanilla

The Godmother Cocktail

Two old fashioned cocktails on a table

The least divisive of all liquors, vodka enters the scene to make an easier-going version of the classic Godfather.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a mixing glass, add ice, vodka, and amaretto.
  2. Stir rapidly to mix.
  3. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
  4. Garnish with a dehydrated orange wheel.

The Godchild Cocktail

Very cold drink with ice and lemon

For those who enjoy a French Connection cocktail from time to time, this recipe might look awfully familiar. The key difference is that you can opt to use any brandy or cognac you desire.

Ingredients

  • 1½ ounces brandy
  • ½ ounce amaretto
  • Ice

Instructions

  1. In a mixing glass, add ice, brandy, and amaretto.
  2. Stir rapidly to chill.
  3. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
Fast Fact

To turn your Godchild into a French Connection, use Cognac instead of brandy.

Godfather Cocktail Variations

Boozy Refreshing French Connection Cocktail with Cognac

There are dozens of Godfather riffs and variations, and an even longer list of substitutions you can use when you're sipping on the classic. This will get you started on the journey.

  • Swap your scotch for bourbon and use simple syrup instead of amaretto for an old-fashioned Godfather.
  • Think New York City, but instead of Manhattan, think Brooklyn! Serve in a coupe glass, but add a half ounce of dry vermouth and a quarter ounce of sweet vermouth to your bourbon and amaretto.
  • For those who are daring and looking for something bold to counter the sweet amaretto, use 100-proof whiskey instead of scotch. Go ahead and add a dash or two of vanilla bitters if you want to soften up your Big Boss cocktail.
  • Give the Godchild a fruity touch with a splash of maraschino liqueur.
  • Of course, you can turn your Godfather cocktail into a sour with the addition of lemon juice and an egg white.

Take the Cocktail, Leave the Cannoli

It's time. Time to step out of your comfort zone and into the glory and infamy that is the Godfather cocktail. Far less dangerous than being the Godfather, it's a cocktail that you just can't refuse.

The Classic Godfather Cocktail & Modern Takes