National Amaretto Day

National Amaretto Day is an annual American celebration of amaretto liqueur. This excellent medium-strength alcoholic drink is delightful both on its own and as an ingredient in cocktails, desserts, pastries, and more. The holiday is celebrated on April 19.

History

The origins of National Amaretto Day are somewhat mysterious, but the liqueur itself has a long and storied history. Amaretto is known for brightening up a gloomy day with its rich flavor, which pairs well with fruit, adding a touch of tartness and spice. Many pastry chefs recommend using amaretto in various desserts and baked goods, where it adds a unique depth of flavor.

Amaretto typically has an alcohol content of 21-30% and contains about 3 grams of sugar per 100 ml. It is made from almonds or apricot kernels.

The drink’s origins are also wrapped in mystery. One popular story traces it back to 1525 in the Italian city of Saronno. According to legend, a wealthy woman gifted a painter-sculptor, Bernardino Luini, with a special drink made from apricot kernels as a token of appreciation for his work. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has retained its unique character to this day.

Interesting Facts

• The spiciness of amaretto is complemented by subtle vanilla tones and a creamy aftertaste.
• Another version of amaretto’s origin involves the Lazzaroni family. In 1851, almond cookies were infused into the liqueur. The family enjoyed the drink so much that they began producing the liqueur using almonds instead of cookies.
• Amaretto is an excellent digestif. Cocktails made with it are sweet and are typically served after a meal.

How to Celebrate

Learn how to make amaretto at home on this day. Buy a bottle of this wonderful liqueur to enjoy its flavor on its own, in cocktails, or as an ingredient in desserts.

Spread the word about the holiday on social media. Ask others if they’ve tried amaretto and what their impressions were.

When is National Amaretto Day in 2025?

National Amaretto Day is observed on April 19 each year.

Observations