The Godfather cocktail is a simple yet bold whisky classic, mixing Scotch and amaretto for a smooth, nutty sip. With just two ingredients, it’s an easy drink to make at home, and its balanced sweetness and warmth make it a go-to for whisky lovers. 

While the original stands the test of time, there are plenty of creative ways to put your own stamp on the original recipe. From smoky twists to entirely new spirits, here are some of the best Godfather cocktail variations to shake up your next drink.

A drink with a name like The Godfather demands respect. This no-nonsense cocktail is made with Scotch whisky and amaretto, creating a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet profile. Our preferred whisky is The Glenlivet 15 Year Old, a deep golden single malt with traces of almond and spice that are a natural match for the amaretto.

The Godfather’s origins are a little mysterious, but it gained popularity in the 1970s, reportedly inspired by the famous film of the same name. The result? A smooth, easy-drinking serve that lets both ingredients shine.

Traditionally, the drink is served over ice, allowing the whisky’s character to mellow while complementing the sweet almond notes of amaretto. Whether you prefer it strong or slightly diluted, it’s a perfect slow-sipper. Garnish with orange peel or a maraschino cherry – try both if you prefer.

Mix up our Godfather cocktail recipe to experience this classic in its purest form..

This softer take on The Godfather swaps out amaretto for cream, turning it into a rich and velvety serve. It’s something closer to a dessert drink, with the whisky’s spice mellowed by the smoothness of the cream. It’s indulgent, easy to sip, and perfect for those who prefer a creamier finish to their whisky cocktails.

The Godchild is best served over ice in an Old Fashioned glass, letting the ingredients blend together as it slowly chills. For an extra touch of decadence, try adding a dusting of cocoa powder or grated nutmeg garnish.

If you like your whisky with a little more edge, the Smoky Godfather is for you. By swapping out 7.5ml of Scotch for a smoky, peated whisky, this version brings a layer of bold, earthy depth to the drink. The smoky notes balance beautifully with the sweet almond of the amaretto, making for a complex yet smooth cocktail.

This variation is ideal for fans of Islay whiskies, where peat and maritime character come through in every sip. Serve it over a large ice cube to let the flavours evolve as you drink.

Vodka takes the lead in the Godmother, creating a lighter and more neutral base while still keeping that signature amaretto sweetness. Without the whisky’s spice and depth, this version is a bit softer and lighter on the palate.

Despite the change in spirit, the amaretto keeps this drink rich and flavourful. It’s a match for those who like nutty, slightly sweet cocktails but want something a little more refreshing.

Bourbon steps in to replace Scotch in The Boss, creating a sweetened version of The Godfather. Bourbon’s natural vanilla and caramel notes enhance the amaretto’s own sweetness, resulting in a smooth, rich serve.

Served over ice with an orange twist, The Boss is a bold yet easy-drinking take to the original.

A fitting name for a drink that blends Scotch whisky with a classic French ingredient. The Auld Alliance swaps out amaretto for a sweet French wine like Banyuls or Pineau des Charentes. Creating a rich, fruity variation.

This recipe leans into whisky’s darker fruit notes, making it a great option for those who appreciate deeper, layered flavours. Best enjoyed neat or over a single ice cube, it’s a refined take on the classic that still keeps its simplicity intact.

When two legendary whisky cocktails meet, you get the Brooklyn Godfather. This riff blends elements of The Godfather and the Brooklyn cocktail, combining bourbon, amaretto, dry vermouth and sweet vermouth for a complex and well-balanced drink. The dry vermouth adds a hint of herbal sharpness, while the sweet vermouth rounds out the richness, making it a more layered take on the original.

A maraschino cherry garnish ties everything together, adding just a touch of fruitiness to complement the bourbon and amaretto. Naturally you can swap the bourbon to Scotch for a more Godfather-led twist using your favourite expression from The Glenlivet collection.

From smoky twists to creamy indulgences, there’s no shortage of ways to reinvent The Godfather cocktail. Whether you stick to the two-ingredient simplicity of the original or experiment with a bold variation, each of these serves brings something unique to the table. Which one will you try first?

Discover more classic whisky drinks you can shake up at home whether you stick to the recipe or make it your own.