Skip to Content

Christmas Spiced Sidecar Recipe

Christmas Spiced Sidecar Recipe

Sharing is caring!

There’s something magical about sipping on a Spiced Sidecar when the weather turns crisp. It’s the kind of cocktail that wraps you up like a cozy blanket but with an edge—citrusy, smooth, and warm from just the right blend of spices.

The original Sidecar might have been a Parisian favorite, but this twist leans into the rich, aromatic flavors of fall and winter, making it a showstopper for holiday parties or a quiet night in. Think of it as the classic’s sophisticated cousin, dressed in warm spices and a hint of mystery.

The real charm? It’s all about balance. The zippy brightness of fresh lemon juice meets the comforting heat of spiced simple syrup, with Cognac tying it all together.

Plus, with studies showing that cocktails featuring citrus can help awaken your palate and aid digestion, it’s the perfect pre-dinner sip.

Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)

  • The spice infusion is a game-changer: It’s a cozy, seasonal upgrade that turns a classic into something unforgettable.
  • Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a festive gathering, this drink is a crowd-pleaser.
  • Easily customizable: You can tweak the spice blend or even swap Cognac for bourbon if you’re feeling bold.
  • It feels special, but it’s simple: With just a few ingredients and steps, you get a bar-worthy cocktail at home.
Garnishing the Spiced Cognac Cocktail with Lemon Twist and Cinnamon Stick Before Serving

Spiced Sidecar Recipe

The Spiced Sidecar is a cozy twist on the classic cocktail, blending warm spices with zesty lemon and smooth Cognac. Perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings, it’s a simple yet sophisticated sip that brings seasonal flavors to life.
Hit the Rating button
Print Pin Rate
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 180kcal
Author: Anne Carter
Servings: 2

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Jigger
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Citrus Juicer
  • Bar spoon
  • Serving Glass

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp caster sugar
  • 50 ml spiced cognac or cognac
  • 25 ml lemon juice
  • 25 ml Cointreau
  • plus a lemon wedge for the glass

SPICED COGNAC

  • 4 cardamom pods
  • bruised
  • 1 star anise
  • 2 small slices ginger
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 200 ml cognac

Instructions

  • Infuse the Cognac: Add spices and ginger to the Cognac. Let it infuse for 30-45 minutes, tasting after 30 minutes for desired flavor.
    Infusing Spices and Ginger in Spiced Cognac for a Flavored Cocktail Base
  • Prepare the Glass: Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a coupe glass, then dip it into caster sugar to coat.
    Preparing a Coupe Glass with Lemon Wedge and Caster Sugar Rim for a Spiced Cognac Cocktail
  • Mix the Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the infused Cognac, lemon juice, and orange liqueur.
    Mixing Infused Cognac, Lemon Juice, and Cointreau in a Cocktail Shaker for a Spiced Cognac Cocktail
  • Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.
    Shaking the Cocktail Ingredients with Ice to Create a Chilled Spiced Cognac Cocktail
  • Strain: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
    Straining the Spiced Cognac Cocktail into a Sugar-Rimmed Coupe Glass
  • Serve: Garnish with a twist of lemon or a cinnamon stick, if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 60mg | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.2mg

What to Serve with Spiced Sidecar Recipe?

Spread the love
Recipe Rating