National Amaretto Day

National Amaretto Day celebrates the rich, almond-flavored liqueur that has become a staple in bars and kitchens worldwide, and it is observed on April 19. Whether enjoyed neat, in a cocktail, or as a decadent ingredient in desserts like tiramisu, amaretto is beloved for its “bittersweet” profile—a characteristic reflected in its name, which translates to “a little bitter” in Italian.

Read also about National Almond Day, National Chinese Almond Cookie Day, National Liqueur Day, National Margarita Day

History of National Amaretto Day

While the specific origin of the holiday itself is a modern creation, the liqueur it honors has a history steeped in Italian Renaissance lore. The most famous legend dates back to 1525 in Saronno, Italy. A young, widowed innkeeper served as the muse for the painter Bernardino Luini (a pupil of Leonardo da Vinci) while he worked on a fresco of the Madonna. To show her gratitude and affection, she reportedly gifted him a flask of her secret brandy infusion made from apricot kernels.

This original recipe is said to have been passed down through generations, eventually becoming the foundation for Disaronno Originale. Another popular origin story involves the Lazzaroni family, who in 1718 created amaretto cookies for the Cardinal of Milan; their family later began producing a liqueur based on those cookies in 1851. These parallel histories helped solidify amaretto’s status as an Italian icon before it successfully entered the American market in the late 1940s.

Why is National Amaretto Day important?

This day is important because it highlights the culinary versatility and cultural heritage of one of the world’s most unique spirits. Unlike many liqueurs that rely on artificial syrups, authentic amaretto often derives its nutty flavor from apricot kernels, bitter almonds, or peach stones, which contain the aromatic compound benzaldehyde. Celebrating this day allows enthusiasts to explore the craftsmanship behind the bottle and the chemistry that makes its flavor profile so distinct.

The observance also emphasizes amaretto’s role as a bridge between the bar and the bakery. It is one of the few liqueurs that is as essential for making a world-class Amaretto Sour as it is for soaking ladyfingers in a traditional Tiramisu. By dedicating a day to this spirit, we recognize its ability to enhance everything from a morning coffee to an after-dinner digestif, making it a cornerstone of hospitality and the “sweet life” (la dolce vita).

• It honors the 500-year-old Italian tradition of kernel-infused brandies.
• The day promotes the discovery of different brands beyond the major labels.
• It recognizes amaretto as a key ingredient in international pastry arts.
• Public awareness helps demystify the “bitter” components of the liqueur.
• It encourages home bartenders to master classic “Connection” cocktails.

How to Celebrate National Amaretto Day

The most classic way to celebrate is by mixing up an Amaretto Sour, perhaps using the modern “gold standard” recipe that includes a splash of bourbon and fresh lemon juice. If you prefer your spirits neat, enjoy a glass of premium amaretto over a large ice cube to truly appreciate its notes of vanilla and burnt sugar. For those who don’t drink alcohol, amaretto-flavored syrups can be used to create delicious mocktails or “Italian sodas.”

You can also take the celebration into the kitchen by baking with the liqueur. Adding a splash to brownie batter, cheesecake, or pancake syrup provides a professional depth of flavor that is difficult to replicate. For a truly immersive experience, try making your own homemade amaretto by infusing vodka with almond and vanilla extracts and a simple sugar syrup—a project that allows you to customize the sweetness to your liking.

• Mix a French Connection (equal parts amaretto and cognac).
• Bake a batch of Amaretti cookies to pair with your evening espresso.
• Use amaretto as a topping for vanilla bean ice cream or panna cotta.
• Host a tasting flight to compare Italian, Dutch, and American brands.
• Share your favorite cocktail creations on social media using #NationalAmaretto Day.

National Amaretto Day Dates Table