Learn how to make Cherry Bounce, a versatile and delicious liqueur made by infusing cherries with spirits. This traditional recipe preserves cherries and creates a flavorful beverage. Infuse cherries with sugar, spices, and your choice of vodka, brandy, or bourbon, and let the mixture develop its rich flavors over time. Enjoy it as a sipping liqueur, use it in cocktails, or drizzle it over desserts for a boozy twist.
Course Beverages
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutesminutes
Servings 24
Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN
Ingredients
1pound450g fresh cherriespitted
2 1/2cupsgranulated sugar
4cupsvodka brandyor bourbon
1cinnamon stick
2whole cloves
1allspice berry
1pinchfreshly grated or ground nutmeg
1vanilla bean split lengthwise
Instructions
Wash and pit the cherries, removing the stems and stones. You can use a cherry pitter or a small knife to remove the pits.
In a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid, combine the cherries, sugar, cinnamon stick, and split vanilla bean.
Pour the vodka, brandy, or bourbon over the cherry mixture, ensuring the cherries are fully submerged.
Seal the jar tightly and gently shake it to mix the ingredients.
Place the jar in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar. Allow the mixture to infuse for at least 4 weeks, preferably up to 3 months. Shake the jar occasionally during this time to distribute the flavors.
Once the desired infusing time has passed, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the cherries and sediment.
Transfer the cherry bounce to clean, airtight bottles or jars for storage. You can discard the used cherries or repurpose them for other culinary creations.
Seal the bottles tightly and store them in a cool, dark place. The cherry bounce will continue to develop flavor over time and can be enjoyed for several months.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:– Sip Cherry Bounce on its own at room temperature or over ice.– Enhance cocktails by adding a splash of Cherry Bounce to a glass of sparkling wine or mixing it with lemonade for a refreshing summer drink.– Elevate desserts by drizzling Cherry Bounce over ice cream or pound cake for a delightful boozy twist.
Enjoy the homemade flavors of Cherry Bounce responsibly and savor its versatile uses!
Yield: Approximately 6 cups