Easy Homemade Brandied Cherries for Cocktails Recipe
Elevate your cocktail game with these easy-to-make brandied cherries. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your favorite drinks, these homemade cocktail cherries are far superior to their store-bought counterparts.
The Evolution of Cocktail Cherries
Once upon a time, maraschino cherries were simply Maraska cherries preserved in maraschino liqueur. This Italian tradition of preserving fruit in spirits has a rich history. However, over time, commercial producers began to alter the recipe, eventually leading to the bright red, artificially flavored cherries we often see today.
Fortunately, we can reclaim the original charm of cocktail cherries by making them at home. This recipe allows you to create a garnish that’s not only delicious but also free from artificial ingredients.
Why Make Your Own Cocktail Cherries?
Creating your own brandied cherries offers several advantages:
- Control over ingredients
- Customizable flavors
- No artificial preservatives or colors
- Superior taste and texture
- Perfect for gifting to fellow cocktail enthusiasts
Customizing Your Cherries
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to tailor the flavors to your liking. Consider these variations:
- Experiment with different spirits like rum or maraschino liqueur
- Try alternative spices such as star anise or cardamom
- Use different types of cherries for varied flavors and textures
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup white sugar or turbinado
- 1/2 cup cherry juice or water
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup brandy, maraschino liqueur, aged rum, or any combination of the three
- 1 pound cherries, stemmed and pitted if desired
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cherry juice (or water), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Bring to a low simmer. Simmer, stirring until sugar is fully dissolved.
- Remove saucepan from heat. Add brandy or other liqueur, and stir to combine.
- Add cherries and stir until coated with syrup.
- Transfer the cherries and syrup to clean canning jars. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These brandied cherries are incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
- As a garnish in classic cocktails like Manhattans or Old Fashioneds
- Topped on ice cream or cheesecake for a boozy dessert
- Mixed into yogurt for a decadent breakfast
- Added to cheese boards for a sweet and spirited touch
Storage and Shelf Life
When properly stored in the refrigerator, these brandied cherries can last for several months. The alcohol and sugar act as natural preservatives, allowing you to enjoy your homemade creation long after you’ve made it.
Nutritional Facts
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Servings: 80 | |
| Amount per serving | |
| Calories | 7 |
| % Daily Value* | |
| Total Fat 0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 0g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 1g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber 0g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 1g | |
| Protein 0g | |
| Vitamin C 0mg | 2% |
| Calcium 1mg | 0% |
| Iron 0mg | 0% |
| Potassium 10mg | 0% |
| *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. | |
A Word on Cherries
While this recipe calls for pitted cherries, you can leave the pits in if you prefer. Some cocktail enthusiasts argue that the pits add a subtle almond flavor to the finished product. If you do leave the pits in, be sure to warn your guests!
The Perfect Gift
These brandied cherries make an excellent homemade gift for cocktail enthusiasts, home bartenders, or anyone who appreciates a gourmet touch. Package them in attractive jars with a ribbon and a handwritten label for a personal touch.
Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply looking to elevate your home bar, these brandied cocktail cherries are sure to impress. With their rich flavor and versatile uses, they’re bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Cheers to homemade cocktail cherries!