Cherry Bounce
Christmas is a magical season full of cozy memories, sparkling lights, and delicious treats—and nothing captures that festive spirit quite like a glass of homemade Cherry Bounce! This sweet, ruby-red liqueur is full of warm spice, rich cherry flavor, and just the right touch of holiday cheer. Perfect for gifting or sipping by the fire!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen sweet cherries pitted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 vanilla bean or 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 750 ml good-quality bourbon brandy, or vodka
- 1- quart glass jar with a tight lid
Instructions
- Prepare the cherries: Rinse and pit the cherries if fresh. If using frozen, let them thaw completely. Place the cherries into a clean, dry glass jar.
- Add the sugar and spices: Pour the sugar over the cherries. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and split vanilla bean (or vanilla extract).
- Pour in the alcohol: Carefully pour the bourbon, brandy, or vodka into the jar, covering the cherries completely. Leave about 1 inch of space at the top.
- Seal and shake: Tightly seal the jar and shake it gently to combine. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 4 weeks, shaking it every few days to help dissolve the sugar and blend the flavors.
- Strain and bottle (optional): After 4–6 weeks, strain the liqueur through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into clean bottles. You can save the cherries for dessert toppings or holiday baking!
Notes
How to Serve Cherry Bounce
Serve chilled or over ice in a small glass for a cozy after-dinner treat. It’s also fantastic in cocktails, like a festive twist on an Old Fashioned or added to sparkling wine for a cherry holiday spritzer! How to Store Cherry Bounce
Store the finished Cherry Bounce in a sealed bottle in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator. It will last for several months—and actually improves over time! Tips to Make Cherry Bounce
Use sweet cherries for a classic flavor or mix in a few tart ones for added depth. Don’t worry if the sugar settles; just give the jar a gentle shake now and then. The longer it sits, the better it tastes—so make a big batch early in the season! Variation
For a citrusy twist, add a few strips of orange peel to the jar along with the spices. You can also experiment with rum or spiced whiskey for a different kind of warmth.
Serve chilled or over ice in a small glass for a cozy after-dinner treat. It’s also fantastic in cocktails, like a festive twist on an Old Fashioned or added to sparkling wine for a cherry holiday spritzer! How to Store Cherry Bounce
Store the finished Cherry Bounce in a sealed bottle in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator. It will last for several months—and actually improves over time! Tips to Make Cherry Bounce
Use sweet cherries for a classic flavor or mix in a few tart ones for added depth. Don’t worry if the sugar settles; just give the jar a gentle shake now and then. The longer it sits, the better it tastes—so make a big batch early in the season! Variation
For a citrusy twist, add a few strips of orange peel to the jar along with the spices. You can also experiment with rum or spiced whiskey for a different kind of warmth.