Tangerine Sidecar Cocktail Recipe
Introduction
The Tangerine Sidecar cocktail offers a dazzling twist on the classic Sidecar, infusing it with a burst of fresh citrus that lifts the timeless flavors to new heights. This drink shines thanks to the sweet-tart punch of ripe tangerines, paired with smooth cognac and orange liqueur. Its vibrant color and bright, zesty aroma make it a show-stopping choice for celebrations, brunches, or whenever you’re craving a sophisticated sip with a tangy edge.
Why Make a Tangerine Sidecar?
Classic Sidecars are beloved for their balance between strength, sweetness, and citrus tang. By incorporating the sunny flavor of tangerine, this variation introduces a juicy freshness that feels modern and unexpected. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser—easy to batch for parties, visually stunning, and with a flavor profile that delights both classic cocktail fans and adventurous drinkers.
Choosing and Preparing Fresh Tangerine Juice
The key to this cocktail’s zippy character is freshly squeezed juice. Select plump, heavy tangerines for the sweetest flavor. For quick and efficient prep (especially for larger gatherings), a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper can help you quickly segment and prep the fruit for juicing. And for the smoothest juice, use a powerful Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender, Black to blend the segments before straining out the pulp.
Mixology Tips for the Perfect Sidecar
For the best result, always use quality spirits and liqueurs. Shake the cocktail vigorously over ice to chill and blend the flavors, then strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. To achieve a perfectly sugared rim (a classic Sidecar garnish), rub the tangerine around the rim and dip it in fine sugar. Prepare your station with a handy Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 for slicing and prepping your fruit garnish.
Serving and Presentation
A Tangerine Sidecar looks as inviting as it tastes. Serve in stemmed glasses with a twist of tangerine peel or a thin round of tangerine as a garnish. For elegant party service, keep your glasses spotless and drink station tidy with Homaxy 100% Cotton Waffle Weave Kitchen Dish Cloths, 6-Pack, Dark Grey, and carry the cocktail to guests in a stable Stanley Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler, 30 oz, Rose Quartz for outdoor entertaining.
Nutritional Information and ABV
Each Tangerine Sidecar contains approximately 160 calories per serving and an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 18-22%, depending on your chosen proportions and pour. This is a well-balanced, sippable cocktail best enjoyed responsibly.
Ingredients
2 oz cognac or high-quality brandy
1 oz fresh tangerine juice (about 1 large tangerine)
¾ oz orange liqueur (Triple Sec, Cointreau, or similar)
½ oz fresh lemon juice
Sugar for rimming the glass
Ice
Optional: Tangerine twist or slice for garnish
Instructions
- Rim your coupe glass: Rub a tangerine wedge around the rim of the glass to moisten, then dip in sugar to lightly coat. Set aside.
- Juice the tangerine and lemon. For juice without pulp, use the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender, Black and strain through a fine mesh sieve.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine cognac, tangerine juice, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and plenty of ice.
- Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with a tangerine twist or thin tangerine round, prepared on your Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen for easy, mess-free slicing.
- For party serving, keep a Homaxy 100% Cotton Waffle Weave Kitchen Dish Cloth at your bar to handle drips and polish glasses.
Timing Details
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Mix Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
The Tangerine Sidecar Recap
The Tangerine Sidecar captures both the soul of the classic cocktail and the vibrant refreshment of fresh citrus. Its balance of spirit, citrus, and sweetness makes it an elegant and approachable drink—sure to brighten any gathering and win fans with its dazzling flavor and arresting color. Enjoy responsibly for a truly memorable happy hour.