Bourbon Cherries Recipe
Upgrade your cocktail game with the bold and complex flavor of bourbon cherries. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking to impress your friends, these delicious cocktail cherries are the perfect ingredient to take your drinks to the next level.
Do you want to add some sophistication to your drinks and impress your guests? Then, look no further than bourbon-soaked cherries, the secret ingredient you need in your cocktails. And whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a newbie, these cherries can take your drinks to the next level.
What are Bourbon cherries?
Bourbon cherries, or bourbon-soaked or boozy cherries, are essentially cherries infused with bourbon whiskey. They are a delicious treat you can enjoy on their own or use as a cocktail garnish. In fact, bourbon-soaked cherries add a rich, complex flavor to drinks and are a great way to elevate your home bartending game.
These cherries are made by soaking fresh cherries in bourbon, sugar, and spices for several days. The alcohol infuses the cherries with its distinct flavor, and the sugar and spices add a sweet and aromatic touch. Once the cherries have been infused, you can store them in the refrigerator for a few months. That makes them available for impromptu gatherings and happy hours.
Why do you need them in your cocktails?
Once you taste the difference they make in your drinks, you’ll wonder why you ever went without them.
- Adding bourbon-soaked cherries to your cocktails takes your drink to a new level.
- And the depth and flavor they bring to your drink are unmatched by any other ingredient.
- Also, they perfectly complement the taste of bourbon and other spirits by adding a sweet, tangy note that balances the drink.
- Plus, their beautiful appearance as a garnish takes your cocktail presentation up a notch.
- Not to mention, they’re incredibly easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.
- In addition, once soaked, the alcohol is infused with cherry flavor and the sweetness of sugar. You can use it as bourbon cherry alcohol!
With all of these benefits, it’s easy to see why these cherries are a must-have item in your cocktail arsenal.
Ingredients and substitutes
- First, you’ll need fresh cherries – ideally sour cherries rather than sweet cherries, as they hold up better in cocktails. And if you don’t have fresh cherries, you can also substitute with frozen or canned cherries. However, be sure to drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
- You’ll also need bourbon. You can experiment with different types of alcohol if you’re not a fan of bourbon. Brandy or rum could be an interesting substitute.
- And if you want to reduce your sugar intake, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of the sugar in the simple syrup.
What alcohol is used for drunken cherries?
When it comes to choosing the right bourbon or whiskey for your drunken cherries, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- First and foremost, choose a bourbon or whiskey that you enjoy drinking on its own. This will ensure that the flavor of the soaked cherries complements the character of your chosen spirit.
- There are no hard and fast rules for specific brands or types. However, it’s worth noting that bourbons with a higher proof tend to be a better choice. That’s because they have a more robust flavor and will better hold up against the sweetness of the cherries.
- Another factor to consider is the age of the bourbon. While older bourbons may seem like the most obvious choice, they can be too complex and overpowering for this recipe. A younger bourbon with a simpler flavor profile will work just as well.
Ultimately, the type of bourbon or whiskey you choose will depend on your preference and the cocktail you plan to use these cherries in. So don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect match.
Step-by-step: How to make bourbon cherries at home
- Prep – Start by washing and drying the cherries thoroughly. Remove any stems that may be damaged or brown.
Pro tip – You can also use stemmed and pitted cherries to soak. Although the stems do look pretty. - Jar – Take a mason jar or an airtight container and place the cherries inside, leaving some space at the top.
- Alcohol – Pour enough bourbon over the cherries to completely cover them.
Pro tip – The cherries will absorb the bourbon flavor, so use good-quality bourbon. - Sugar – Add the sugar and close the lid. Give the jar a good shake.
Pro tip – If you prefer no-sugar-soaked cherries, you can use a sweetener such as honey, maple syrup, etc. - Shake – Seal the jar tightly and gently shake it to mix the bourbon and sugar (if you added it). Ensure that all the cherries are submerged in the bourbon.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least a week to allow the cherries to absorb the bourbon flavor. You can let them soak longer in the fridge if you desire a stronger bourbon taste.
- After the soaking period, the cherries are ready to be enjoyed! You can use them as a cocktail garnish, serve them over ice cream, use them in baking, or simply enjoy them as a boozy treat.
Storage and shelf life
- If you use only some of your bourbon-soaked cherries, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a few months.
- As with any food storage, it’s essential to use good hygiene when handling the cherries and to keep them in a clean, airtight container. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy them in your cocktails for weeks to come.
Do soaked cherries go bad?
- The good news is that soaked cherries can last several months or even a year if stored properly. However, it’s important to remember that the cherries will continue to age and change in flavor over time, so it’s best to consume them within the first few months for optimal taste.
- Keep your alcohol cherries in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help preserve their flavor and prevent any spoilage. And if you notice any signs of mold or an off odor, it’s best to discard them immediately.
- Another important note is that the alcohol in the bourbon will also act as a preservative, helping to keep the cherries fresh for a longer period. So, to make a large batch of these soaked cherries, consider using a higher-proof bourbon for maximum preservation.
What is cherry bourbon syrup, and how do you make it?
The bourbon in the jar contains sugar and is infused with the cherries. So once you have used up all the cherries, you can thicken the syrup to make a delicious cherry-flavored bourbon syrup that is perfect for use with cocktails or over your favorite desserts, such as ice creams, panna cotta, Bavarian cream, mousse, and more.
Frequently asked questions
If stored properly in a sealed container in the refrigerator, bourbon-soaked cherries can last for up to 6 months.
While fresh cherries can undoubtedly add a nice flavor to cocktails, bourbon-soaked cherries have a unique taste from being soaked in bourbon and sugar. Using fresh cherries will give you a different depth of flavor.
Yes! The syrup can add an extra bourbon flavor to your cocktails and be a sweetener.
While it’s better to use fresh cherries for their texture and flavor, you can also use frozen cherries as a substitute. However, it is important to note that frozen cherries may release more liquid during soaking and may not absorb the bourbon like fresh cherries. If you choose frozen cherries, thaw them completely and strain off any excess liquid before soaking them in bourbon.
The answer is yes, you can use canned cherries. However, it’s important to note that canned cherries won’t have the same taste and texture as fresh cherries. Canning may cause the cherries to lose some of their firmness, and the bourbon flavor may also be less pronounced. But if you have a lot of cherries and want to save them for later, canning is a viable option. When canning, it’s important to follow a trusted recipe and proper canning techniques to ensure the cherries are safe to consume. It’s also important to note that canned cherries have a shorter shelf life than fresh cherries, typically lasting 12-18 months.
Bourbon Cherries
Bourbon-soaked cherries are a delicious and indulgent treat that combines the sweet juiciness of cherries with the rich flavor of bourbon. Here's a simple recipe to make bourbon-soaked cherries.
Video
Ingredients
- 1 lb (500 g) Fresh cherries (preferably with stems)
- 2 – 2½ cups (500 ml) Bourbon whiskey
- ⅓ – ½ cup (60 g) Granulated sugar (optional (if desired)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp Orange liqueur
- Few lemon zest slices or orange zest slices r
- 25 oz Mason jar or airtight glass container
Method
- Prep – Start by washing and drying the cherries thoroughly. Remove any stems that may be damaged or brown.
- Jar – Take a mason jar or an airtight container and place the cherries inside, leaving some space at the top.1 lb Fresh cherries
- Alcohol – Pour enough bourbon over the cherries to completely cover them.2 – 2½ cups Bourbon whiskey
- Sugar – Add the sugar and close the lid. Give the jar a good shake.⅓ – ½ cup Granulated sugar (optional
- Shake – Seal the jar tightly and gently shake it to distribute the bourbon and sugar (if added). Ensure that all the cherries are submerged in the bourbon.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least a week to allow the cherries to soak the bourbon flavor. You can let them soak longer in the fridge if you desire a more pungent bourbon taste.
- After the soaking period, the cherries are ready to be enjoyed! They can be used as a cocktail garnish, served over ice cream, used in baking, or simply enjoyed on their own as a boozy treat.
Notes
Storage
- The bourbon-soaked cherries will keep for several months if stored properly in the refrigerator. The longer they soak, the more the flavors will meld together.
- Remember to enjoy bourbon-soaked cherries responsibly, as they do contain alcohol.
- The good news is that these cherries can last several months or even a year if stored properly. However, it’s essential to remember that the cherries will continue to age and change in flavor over time, so it’s best to consume them within the first few months for optimal taste.
- Keep your soaked cherries in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help preserve their flavor and prevent any spoilage. If you notice any signs of mold or an off odor, it’s best to discard them immediately.
- Another important note is that the alcohol in the bourbon will also act as a preservative, helping to keep the cherries fresh for a longer period. So, to make a large batch of bourbon-soaked cherries, consider using a higher-proof bourbon for maximum preservation.
Cocktails to make with bourbon cherry
Bourbon cherries, alcohol in the jar, contain sugar, adding a subtle sweetness and unique flavor to various cocktails. This also means you don’t need to add additional sugar. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:- Cherry Old Fashioned – The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail known for its simplicity and timeless appeal. The cherries complement the sweetness of the bourbon and add a pop of color to the drink.
- Add 2 oz of bourbon + 2 oz of cherry bourbon alcohol over ice in an old-fashioned glass or cocktail glass.
- Top with 2-3 drops of Angostura bitters,
- Garnish with an orange twist and a cherry.
- Cherry Manhattan – The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that combines the richness of whiskey with the sweet, herbal flavors of vermouth. The cherry adds complexity and depth to the cocktail.
- In a cocktail shaker, add ice cubes, 2 oz of whiskey, 2 oz of bourbon cherry alcohol, and 1 oz of sweet vermouth.
- Top with 2-3 drops of Angostura bitters.
- Shake, then pour into a cocktail glass and
- Garnish with an orange twist and a cherry.
- And Cherry Whiskey Sour – Muddle a bourbon cherry with a bit of sugar and lemon juice for a twist on the classic Whiskey Sour.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes, add 2 oz of whiskey, 1 oz of bourbon cherries alcohol, 1 oz of lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon of sugar.
(You can also add one egg white for a silky texture and frothy layer.) - Shake, then pour into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon and a cherry.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes, add 2 oz of whiskey, 1 oz of bourbon cherries alcohol, 1 oz of lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon of sugar.
- Cherry Boulevardier – The Boulevardier is a delightful cocktail similar to the Negroni and the Manhattan. The bitterness of the Campari in this cocktail is balanced by the sweetness of the bourbon and the cherry garnish.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes, add 2 oz of bourbon, 1 oz of cherry liqueur, 1 oz of vermouth, and 1 oz of Campari.
- Shake, then pour into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with soaked cherries.
- Cherry Mint Julep – Swap out the traditional mint sprig for a bourbon cherry in your Mint Julep for a unique take on this classic cocktail.
- In a cocktail shaker with crushed ice, lightly muddle 5-6 mint leaves,
- Add 2 oz of bourbon + 1 oz of bourbon cherry alcohol.
- Shake, then pour into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and cherries.
Nutrition
Tried this recipe?
Mention @veenaazmanov_kitchen or tag #veenaazmanovkitchen!What cocktails can you make with cherry-infused bourbon alcohol?
Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Cherry Old Fashioned – The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail known for its simplicity and timeless appeal. The cherries complement the sweetness of the bourbon and add a pop of color to the drink.
- Add 2 oz of bourbon + 2 oz of cherry bourbon alcohol over ice in an old-fashioned glass or cocktail glass.
- Top with 2-3 drops of Angostura bitters,
- Garnish with an orange twist and a cherry.
- Cherry Manhattan – The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that combines the richness of whiskey with the sweet and herbal flavors of the vermouth. The cherry adds complexity and depth to the cocktail.
- In a cocktail shaker, add the ice cubes with 2 oz of whiskey + 2 oz of bourbon, cherry alcohol + 1 oz of sweet vermouth.
- Top with 2-3 drops of Angostura bitters.
- Shake, then pour into a cocktail glass and garnish with an orange twist and a cherry.
- and Cherry Whiskey Sour – Muddle a bourbon cherry with a bit of sugar and lemon juice for a twist on the classic Whiskey Sour.
- In a cocktail shaker over ice cubes, add 2 oz of whiskey + 1 oz of bourbon cherries alcohol + 1 oz of lemon juice + 1/2 tsp sugar.
(You can also add one egg white for a silky texture and frothy layer. - Shake, then pour into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon and a cherry.
- In a cocktail shaker over ice cubes, add 2 oz of whiskey + 1 oz of bourbon cherries alcohol + 1 oz of lemon juice + 1/2 tsp sugar.
- Cherry Boulevardier – The Boulevardier is a delightful cocktail that shares similarities with both the Negroni and the Manhattan. The bitterness of the Campari in this cocktail is balanced out by the sweetness of the bourbon and the cherry garnish.
- In a cocktail shaker over ice cubes, add 2 oz of bourbon + 1 oz of bourbon cherry alcohol + 1 oz of vermouth + 1 oz of Campari.
- Shake, then pour into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with soaked cherries.
- Cherry Mint Julep – Swap out the traditional mint sprig for a bourbon cherry in your Mint Julep for a unique take on this classic cocktail.
- In a cocktail shaker with crushed ice, lightly muddle 5-6 mint leaves,
- Add 2 oz of bourbon + 1 oz of bourbon cherry alcohol.
- Shake, then pour into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and cherries.
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Wow, what a great idea! I’ve never had bourbon cherries, but I can see how amazing they would be added to cocktails and desserts. I love how easy they are!
I love these cherries. I am going to be using them on so many things! They also make a great gift. I will be making batches of these to hand out for Christmas.
I live in a cherry growing area in Northern Italy and it’s currently cherry picking season. We traditionally preserve cherries in grappa but I love the idea of using bourbon. Will definitely try this out!
These cherries sound like a great add to some yummy drinks! I have not tried something like this before! Thanks for the recipe share!
Oh my! This dish looks amazingly delicious and very enticing! The color it gives is so appealing Everybody will gonna love and enjoy eating this with our pastry! Thanks for sharing this with us!
These bourbon cherries are so easy and perfect for just about any dessert! I love them on cakes and cocktails! Thanks for the easy sweet treat recipe 🙂
Wow! What a versatile ensemble of delicious naughtiness. I love how the bourbon cherries can elevate any use case. It might be difficult to keep them around (grin).
These bourbon-soaked cherries were the perfect garnish for a classic old-fashioned. I’ll be using these instead of the store-bought stuff we normally use.
Wow! So much information and so many great tips for making Bourbon Cherries. I’ll be making them again this summer during cherry season!
These bourbon cherries were so easy to make. I think they are going to be going in everything from summer cocktails to winter warming drinks.