As a bartender, I have always been fascinated by the versatility of cherries. These small, juicy fruits possess a unique flavor that can enhance any cocktail.
Over the years, I have experimented with various cherry-based recipes, and I have come to appreciate the incredible range of flavors that can be achieved with these little red gems.
Cherries have a long history in the world of mixology. In the early days of cocktail culture, cherries were often used as a garnish, adding a pop of color to classic drinks like the Manhattan and Old Fashioned.
But as bartenders began to experiment with new flavors and ingredients, cherries took on a more prominent role in many recipes.
Today, cherry cocktails are more popular than ever, and for good reason. Whether you prefer sweet or sour, fruity or spicy, there is a cherry cocktail recipe out there that is sure to suit your taste.
From the classic Cherry Martini to the bold and spicy Cherry Bourbon Smash, there is no shortage of delicious drinks to choose from.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorite cherry cocktail recipes, along with tips and tricks for making them perfect every time.
So whether you are a seasoned mixologist or just looking to try something new, read on to discover the wonderful world of cherry cocktails.
1. Cherry Old Fashioned Smash
The Cherry Old Fashioned Smash is a must-try cocktail for cherry lovers. Made with fresh cherries, this cocktail is perfect for summer and has a limited shelf life due to the seasonality of the fruit. The use of Angels Envy Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey adds a unique twist to the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, with hints of sweet cherry on the nose.
The muddled fruit and sparkling soda give it a refreshing twist, while the orange bitters add depth and complexity. This cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a beautiful red hue that is sure to impress. Don't miss out on this delicious cocktail before cherry season is over!
2. Spiced Cherry Spritz
If you're looking for a Cherry Cocktail that's a little more complex, then the Spiced Cherry Spritz might be the one for you. This cocktail is made with only three ingredients, but it packs a surprisingly complex flavor profile. The Cheerwine and Lambrusco give it a sweet taste, while the Fernet Branca adds a bit of bitterness and keeps it interesting.
This cocktail is perfect for those who want a drink that's both sweet and bitter, and it's a great choice for any occasion. If you're looking for a Cherry Cocktail that's a little different from the norm, then the Spiced Cherry Spritz is definitely worth a try.
3. Tart Cherry Fizz
The Tart Cherry Fizz is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for summer sipping. Made with only four ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and can be scaled up for larger gatherings. The tart cherry juice blends smoothly with the vodka, and the addition of club soda gives it a bubbly kick.
The dark red color of the cocktail is perfect for patriotic celebrations and the all-natural ingredients make it a healthier option. Served in a mason jar with a red striped paper straw, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests. If you're looking for a simple yet delicious cocktail to add to your summer repertoire, the Tart Cherry Fizz is definitely worth a try.
4. Cherry Bomb
Cherry Bomb is a refreshing cocktail made with fresh cherries, bourbon, vanilla, maple syrup, lemon juice, and club soda. The combination of flavors is simply amazing, and it's perfect for ending a long, hot summer day.
The use of fresh seasonal cherries makes this cocktail unique and vibrant. It's definitely worth a try if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail.
5. Bing Cherry Cosmo Cocktail
The Bing Cherry Cosmo Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Cosmopolitan. Made with fresh cherries, vodka, orange liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup, this cocktail is sweet and sour with a beautiful red color.
The use of fresh cherries means you can customize the sweetness to your liking, making it a perfect drink for any occasion. The addition of cherry garnish on a martini pick adds a touch of elegance to this already beautiful cocktail. If you're a fan of fruity and refreshing drinks, the Bing Cherry Cosmo Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
6. Black Cherry Bourbon Cola Smash
The Black Cherry Bourbon Cola Smash is a refreshing and simple cocktail that is perfect for hot summer evenings. This cocktail is a proven match of cherries and cola, with a splash of bourbon and cherry brandy. The sweetness of the cola is balanced by the tartness of the cherries, creating a delicious and popular cocktail that everyone will love.
This cocktail can be made in a big jug to serve a crowd, making it perfect for parties and gatherings. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that will impress your guests, the Black Cherry Bourbon Cola Smash is definitely worth trying.
7. Bourbon Bomb Cocktail
The Bourbon Bomb Cocktail is a delightful cherry cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh cherries, bourbon, and a few other simple ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and packs a punch of flavor.
The sweetness of the cherries is perfectly balanced with the boldness of the bourbon, making it a great option for those who enjoy a fruity yet strong cocktail. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves cherries and bourbon. So, if you're looking for a new cocktail to try, give the Bourbon Bomb Cocktail a shot!
8. Cherry Vodka Cocktail
The Cherry Vodka Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet and smooth drink. It's a perfect slow sipper that can be enjoyed year-round. The vodka flavor is not overpowering, which allows the cherry flavor to be the star of the show. This cocktail is best served chilled with crushed ice, which keeps the drink nice and cool.
While maraschino cherries are recommended for this recipe, fresh cherries can also be used. Additionally, rum can be substituted for vodka for a different twist. If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious drink, the Cherry Vodka Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
9. Cherry Bourbon Sour
The Cherry Bourbon Sour is a delightful cocktail that combines the tartness of fresh cherries with the warmth of bourbon. This cocktail is perfect for the end of summer, as it offers a refreshing and slightly sweet taste that is perfect for sipping on a hot day. The cocktail is made by muddling fresh cherries with simple syrup, lemon juice, and bourbon, and shaking it all together with ice.
The addition of egg white gives the cocktail a creamy and frothy head that is just delightful. The cocktail is best served in a chilled coupe glass or a whiskey glass filled with ice. If you're looking for a seasonal cocktail that is both refreshing and delicious, the Cherry Bourbon Sour is definitely worth a try.
10. Cherry Moscow Mule
The Cherry Moscow Mule is a fruity and refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. Made with fresh cherries, vodka, cherry liqueur, lime juice, and topped with ginger beer, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion. The pink color and garnish of lime wedge and cherries make it a beautiful drink to serve.
The muddled cherries add a sweet and tart flavor to the cocktail, while the ginger beer gives it a spicy kick. It's a light and fizzy drink that's not too sweet, making it a perfect summer sipper. If you're looking for a fun and delicious cocktail to try, the Cherry Moscow Mule is definitely worth a shot.
11. Bourbon Cherry Smash
The Bourbon Cherry Smash is a trendy and delicious cocktail that is perfect for winter. Made with natural maraschino cherries infused with bourbon, this cocktail has a deep and natural taste that is sure to impress.
The addition of Meyer lemon simple syrup adds a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the bourbon and cherries. This cocktail is a great way to impress your guests at a dinner party or to enjoy as a sipper on a cozy night in. Don't miss out on this sexy and simple cocktail that is sure to become a favorite.
12. Fresh Cherry Margarita
The Fresh Cherry Margarita is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves the sweet and tangy taste of cherries. Made with reposado tequila, Luxardo cherry liqueur, and fresh lime juice, this fruity margarita is perfect for summer. The cocktail is garnished with a salted rim and topped with stemmed and seeded cherries to add a pop of color and flavor.
The Luxardo cherry liqueur gives the cocktail a rich almond-like flavor that perfectly complements the oaked flavor of the reposado tequila. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a cozy patio with good company. If you're a fan of chocolate and cherries, pair this cocktail with a chocolate-covered cherry cheesecake or a frozen chocolate-cherry mousse pie for a delicious treat.
13. Cherry Manhattan
Cherry Manhattan is a classic cocktail with a twist. This cocktail recipe uses Amarena cherries instead of the traditional maraschino cherries, giving it a unique flavor that is sure to impress. The use of rye, whiskey, or bourbon adds a rich and complex flavor to the drink, making it perfect for any occasion.
This cocktail is easy to make and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a good Manhattan. If you're looking for a delicious and unique cocktail to try, the Cherry Manhattan is definitely worth a shot.
14. Honeysuckle Cherry Smash
The Honeysuckle Cherry Smash is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that's perfect for summertime sipping. Made with cherry, mint, agave, and honeysuckle vodka, it's a unique twist on a classic drink.
The natural sweetness of the cherry and the freshness of the mint make it a perfectly balanced and delicious cocktail. Whether you're hosting a summer party or just looking for a tasty drink to enjoy on a lazy afternoon, the Honeysuckle Cherry Smash is sure to impress.
15. Cherry Bomb Cocktail
The Cherry Bomb Cocktail is a delightful drink that is perfect for anyone who loves bourbon and cherries. The combination of bourbon and cherry brandy creates a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to please any palate. The frothy head on top of the drink is created by the egg white, which gives it a slightly creamy texture.
Despite its girly appearance, this cocktail packs a punch and is definitely a grown-up drink. The use of maraschino cherries adds a touch of sweetness to the drink, but it is not overpowering. If you are a fan of gin, you should definitely try the Cherry Bomb Cocktail with gin instead of bourbon. Overall, this is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves cherries and bourbon.
16. Bourbon Cherry Cocktail
The Bourbon Cherry Cocktail is a delightful drink that is perfect for any warm summer or fall evening. This fruity cocktail is made with homemade brown sugar and cherry-infused syrup, which gives it a unique and distinct flavor.
The cocktail is made by shaking the cherry syrup, bourbon, lemon juice, orange juice, and ice together and then straining it into a chilled cocktail glass. It is a refreshing and flavorful drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot day. If you are looking for a fruity bourbon cocktail, then the Bourbon Cherry Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
17. Cherry Margarita
The Cherry Margarita is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail that is perfect for summer parties and BBQs. Made with fresh cherries and a splash of maraschino liqueur, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests. The recipe calls for silver tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar, which are all blended together with crushed cherries for a refreshing and fruity flavor.
The Maraschino Liqueur adds a subtle sweetness that balances out the tartness of the lime juice. This cocktail is easy to make and can be customized to your liking by using your favorite tequila. If you're looking for a fun and flavorful cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Cherry Margarita is definitely worth a try.
18. Cherry Vodka Sour
The Cherry Vodka Sour is a refreshing and balanced summer cocktail that combines the sweetness of grenadine with the tartness of lemonade. The addition of cherry-infused vodka gives it an extra kick of flavor, but it can also be enjoyed without alcohol. The cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot day by the pool or at a cookout with friends.
Its sweet and sour notes make it a great pairing with BBQ or appetizers like egg rolls or flatbread with hummus. Overall, the Cherry Vodka Sour is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that embodies the flavors of summer.
19. Sour Cherry Whiskey
The Sour Cherry Whiskey is a delightful cocktail that combines the sweetness and spice of Suntory Whisky Toki with the exotic flavors of Luxardo Sour Cherry Syrup. The addition of fresh lemon juice and orange bitters creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, while the guava soda adds a fizzy and whimsical touch to the drink.
Topped off with a garnish of tarragon and lemon, this cocktail is not only visually appealing but also packs a punch of flavor. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cherry cocktail, the Sour Cherry Whiskey is definitely worth a try.
20. Cherry Limeade Cocktail
The Cherry Limeade Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves the sweet and tangy combination of cherries and lime. Made with moonshine cherries and a squeeze of fresh lime, this cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic cherry cocktail.
The moonshine cherries give the drink a unique kick, while the lime adds a citrusy zing that balances out the sweetness of the cherries. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or for adding a bit of excitement to your next party. If you're looking for a new and exciting cherry cocktail recipe to try, the Cherry Limeade Cocktail is definitely worth a shot.
21. Frozen Cherry Daiquiri
The Frozen Cherry Daiquiri is a perfect summer cocktail that will leave you refreshed and satisfied. Made with real frozen sweet cherries, cherry juice, and a splash of lime juice, this cocktail has a fruity and tangy flavor that is hard to resist. The addition of rum adds a classic touch to the drink, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
The best part about this cocktail is that it can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it a perfect dessert cocktail. So, if you're looking for a fun and tasty summer cocktail, the Frozen Cherry Daiquiri is definitely worth a try!
22. Cherry Bakewell Cocktail
The Cherry Bakewell Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that combines the flavors of Amaretti, Maraschino Cherries, and chilled sparkling Prosecco. Inspired by the iconic Cherry Bakewell Tart, this cocktail is perfect for lazy brunches or as a go-to Christmas morning drink.
The Maraschino cherries used in this recipe are carefully picked and matured for two weeks in natural Marasca juice, giving them a deep and intense flavor. This cocktail is easy to make and requires no special cocktail equipment, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. If you're a fan of the almond-cherry combo, then the Cherry Bakewell Cocktail is a must-try.
23. The Pink Cherry Blossom Maraschino Liqueur Cocktail
"The Pink Cherry Blossom Maraschino Liqueur Cocktail" is a delightful and feminine cocktail that's perfect for Easter, Mother's Day, or any celebration of cherry blossom season. This pretty cocktail is made with Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur and Gin Lane Victoria Pink Gin 1751, which adds a subtle cherry essence and a lovely pink color.
The cocktail is lightly sweet and citrusy, with a hint of cherry, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a sweeter cocktail. The garnish is also a standout feature, with a Luxardo maraschino cherry pierced with cherry blossoms for a perfectly precious touch. Overall, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves cherry-flavored drinks or wants to add a touch of whimsy to their cocktail menu.
24. Vodka Cherry Limeade
The Vodka Cherry Limeade is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that's perfect for summertime sipping. It combines the sweetness of cherry vodka and grenadine with the tanginess of limeade and fresh lime juice.
The addition of sparkling water gives it a nice fizz. It's easy to adjust the sweetness level to your liking by adding more lime juice or sparkling water. Overall, it's a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that's definitely worth a try.
25. Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail
The Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail is a perfect winter drink loaded with chocolate and cherry flavors. It's deeply warming and pleasantly sweet, making it an ideal drink to enjoy on a chilly winter's night.
Made with bourbon, cherry brandy, and chocolate liqueur, it's topped with a delicate float of cream and grated chocolate, with a Maraschino cherry hiding in the bottom of each glass. It's a particularly stylish winter drink that can be enjoyed as an adults-only dessert or a comforting nightcap.
26. Cherry Strawberry Daiquiri
The Cherry Strawberry Daiquiri is a refreshing and sweet frozen cocktail that is perfect for a summer night. This cocktail is a fun twist on the classic Strawberry Daiquiri, with the addition of cherries. The recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in a blender.
The cocktail is a hit with both men and women, making it perfect for a ladies' night or a fun evening with friends. The Cherry Strawberry Daiquiri is a must-try for anyone who loves sweet and fruity cocktails.
27. Bourbon and Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Bourbon and Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is a must-try for bourbon lovers who enjoy a festive twist. This cocktail is a combination of bourbon, lime juice, honey, and cherry jam, which gives it a unique and delicious taste. The drink is garnished with maraschino cherries, which add a pop of color and flavor to the cocktail.
The Bourbon and Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is perfect for holiday parties, before dinner drinks, or even during a football game. The cocktail is bourbon-forward, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a strong drink. If you're looking for a festive and delicious cocktail to serve to your guests, the Bourbon and Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
28. Amarena Cherry
The Amarena Cherry is a small, dark, and sour Italian cherry that has become a popular ingredient in cocktail bars. It is usually bottled in syrup and used as a decoration on rich chocolate desserts. The cherry's firmness and sweetness make it a perfect ingredient for cocktails.
The Amarena Cherry Cocktail is a delicious and refreshing drink that combines the sweet and tart flavors of the cherry with the boldness of the alcohol. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves the taste of cherries and wants to experience a unique and flavorful drink. So, if you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Amarena Cherry Cocktail should definitely be on your list!
29. Partridge in a Cherry Tree Cocktail
The Partridge in a Cherry Tree Cocktail is a winter sipper made with Empress Gin and Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, garnished with Luxardo cherries. The gin's unique blue hue changes to a stunning purple when mixed with citrus acid. The Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur is infused with fresh Maraschino cherries, branches, and leaves, and distilled in copper pot stills before being matured in ash-wood vats.
The chocolatey, citrus flavors of the liqueur, along with the distinct cherry flavor, dance perfectly with the cacao and bergamot notes in the other liqueurs as well as the tea and juniper in Empress Gin. The Partridge in a Cherry Tree Cocktail is a perfect, purple sip that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
30. Skinny Grenadine Cherry Bomb
The Skinny Grenadine Cherry Bomb is a perfect cocktail for those who prefer a light and refreshing drink. This cocktail is a twist on the classic Shirley Temple, made with homemade skinny grenadine syrup and a touch of citrus flavor with the juice of a blood orange.
The vodka in this cocktail is barely noticeable, making it a perfect drink for those who don't enjoy the taste of alcohol. The cherries on top of the cocktail add a nice touch, making it a perfect drink for Valentine's Day. Overall, the Skinny Grenadine Cherry Bomb is a must-try cocktail for those who enjoy a sweet and fruity drink without the overpowering taste of alcohol.
31. Classic Manhattan Cocktail
The Classic Manhattan Cocktail is a timeless drink made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It is traditionally served neat, but can also be enjoyed on the rocks.
The use of bourbon-soaked cherries as a garnish adds a delicious sweetness to the drink. Its smooth and balanced flavors make it a perfect drink for any occasion. If you're a fan of whiskey-based cocktails, the Classic Manhattan is a must-try.
32. Cherry Gin Bramble Cocktail
The Cherry Gin Bramble Cocktail is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic bramble cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those who love the taste of cherries and gin. It's made with fresh pitted cherries, maraschino liqueur, gin, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
The mixture is poured over ice and served cold. The combination of sweet and tart flavors makes this cocktail a great choice for any occasion. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cherry cocktail, the Cherry Gin Bramble Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
