Classic Sidecar Recipe

Inspired by Percy

Time10m

Serves1

Make Classic Sidecar Recipe in just 10m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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1
Prepare the glass
Choose a chilled coupe or martini glass. Rub a cut lemon wedge around the outer rim of the glass or run it along the inside edge where the rim will contact the sugar.
2
Turn the glass upside down and dip the wet rim into a shallow plate of superfine sugar to create an even sugar rim. Set the glass aside to chill while you mix the cocktail.

3
Fill a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice.
4
Add 2 oz cognac (or brandy), 1 oz orange liqueur, and 0.75 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice to the shaker. If you prefer a slightly sweeter Sidecar, add 0.25 oz simple syrup.
5
Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds, until the shaker is well chilled and slightly frosted. This chills and dilutes the drink to proper balance.
6
Double-strain the cocktail into the prepared chilled, sugar-rimmed coupe or martini glass to remove ice shards and any pulp from the lemon juice.
7
Garnish with a lemon wheel or a lemon twist expressed over the drink and rested on the rim.
8
Serve immediately.