If there is anything I associate with The Princess Diaries series, it is the dowager princess, Clarrise’s penchant for sidecars. And who can blame her? This drink happens to be one of my favorites, too. And I definitely tried it because of these books. Mia is even quizzed on its correct recipe.

Of course, the drink would probably fit better in a tumbler, but Clarisse is always very adamant that sidecars are to be served in stemmed cocktail glasses. Though she would most likely disapprove of my glassware…

This sidecar recipe is very simple and is easy to adapt to your tastes.

• 2 ounces brandy or cognac (cognac being the more expensive choice, but a good brandy will do)
• 1 ounce Cointreau or triple sec
• 1 ounce fresh lemon juice

Combine all ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker and serve straight up in the stemmed glass of your choice.

Brandy has more of a bite than cognac, so my suggestion is to use a bit less or up the orange liqueur. You can also adjust the lemon juice to taste or add a little honey or powdered sugar.

Has there ever been a dish or drink you’ve been inspired to try because of a fictional character enjoying it so much? Let me know in the comments.