The French Connection Cocktail is one of the easiest alcoholic drinks to make at home. It needs two ingredients, cognac and amaretto, and no special tools or techniques. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a classy drink without the fuss.
Contents
French Connection Cocktail Recipe
The French Connection Cocktail is a sophisticated and elegant classic drink. It’s made from just two ingredients: Cognac and Amaretto. These two create a harmonious blend of strong, nuanced flavors.

The French Connection is part of the “criminal cocktails” trilogy, along with the Godfather and Godmother. All are inspired by characters or themes associated with the underworld.
The French Connection Cocktail’s rich, smooth, and nutty flavor makes it a versatile pairing for a variety of dishes. For dessert, try it with creamy treats like Crème Brûlée or cheesecake, or indulge in a decadent chocolate mousse.
Savory dishes like smoked meats, pâtés, or aged cheeses such as Gouda, Brie, or Roquefort balance the cocktail’s sweetness perfectly. It also pairs well with mini croque-monsieur, smoked salmon blinis, and baked brie.
Here’s how to make the French Connection Cocktail:

French Connection Cocktail
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz (45ml) Cognac
- 1 oz (30ml) Amaretto
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Pour in the Cognac and Amaretto.
- Stir gently for about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a short glass with a large ice cube.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- This cocktail is best served in a lowball glass with a large ice cube to slow dilution.
- Adjust sweetness by tweaking the Amaretto-to-Cognac ratio.
- For a bolder twist, use a VSOP Cognac for more depth.
- Garnish orange peel for extra aroma.
Variations
Here are some notable variations of the French Connection Cocktail:
- Bourbon Twist substitutes cognac with bourbon for a smokier, richer flavor profile.
- Islay Scotch Variation adds a splash of Islay Scotch to introduce a smoky element to the drink.
- Infused Cognac uses infused cognac with vanilla or cinnamon for a unique, complex cocktail.
- Grand Marnier Substitution uses Grand Marnier instead of cognac for an orange flavor and a slightly less sweet profile.
- Tommy Klus’ French Connection includes peat Scotch whiskey, sweet vermouth, and liquor. It offers a distinct twist on the original.