Go Back

Easy Classic Sidecar Cocktail

A quick and elegant cocktail that combines cognac, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice for a bright, smooth flavor with a citrusy edge.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Cocktail, Drink
Cuisine: American
Calories: 240
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sugar Rim
  • 1 wedge 1 lemon wedge
  • 1 tbsp 1 tbsp granulated sugar on a small plate
For the Cocktail
  • 2 oz 2 oz cognac
  • 1 oz 1 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
  • 1 oz 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • Ice cubes for shaking
Optional Garnish
  • 1 twist 1 orange twist

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Chill the glass by placing it in the freezer for 10 minutes or filling it with ice water.
  2. Run a lemon wedge around the outer edge of the rim of the glass and dip it into the granulated sugar to coat the rim.
  3. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice.
  4. Shake the cocktail vigorously for about 15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
  5. Strain the cocktail into the sugar-rimmed coupe glass.
  6. Garnish with an orange twist by expressing the oils over the drink and placing it in the glass.
  7. Serve immediately while the cocktail is cold and fresh.
Make Ahead
  1. Combine cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice without ice up to 4 hours ahead of time, then chill until ready to serve.

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh and chilled. Avoid over-shaking to prevent dilution. This drink is for adults 21+ only.