Cherry Bounce Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cherry Bounce is a rich, fruity liqueur made by infusing fresh cherries with alcohol and sugar, often enhanced with warm spices. This centuries-old drink is easy to make and perfect for sipping, gifting, or using in cocktails. Its deep cherry flavor and smooth finish make it a delightful homemade addition to your liquor cabinet.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh sweet or sour cherriesbourbon, brandy, or vodkagranulated sugarsmall cinnamon stickwhole clovesvanilla bean (optional)

directions

Wash and pit the cherries, leaving some whole for added flavor.

Place the cherries in a clean quart-sized mason jar or similar glass container.

Add the sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and vanilla bean if using.

Pour your chosen alcohol over the cherries until fully submerged.

Seal the jar tightly and shake gently to combine.

Store in a cool, dark place for at least 1 month, shaking the jar every few days.

For best flavor, let the mixture infuse for 3 months or more.

Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove solids.

Transfer the liquid to a clean bottle for serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 3-4 cups of Cherry Bounce.Preparation time: 15 minutesInfusion time: Minimum 1 month, ideally 3 monthsTotal time: About 3 months and 15 minutes

Variations

Use sour cherries for a tart, intense flavor.

Add orange or lemon peel for a citrus twist.

Infuse with star anise or nutmeg for a different spice profile.

Use a mix of bourbon and brandy for complex depth.

Try adding a splash of almond extract after straining for extra richness.

storage/reheating

Store Cherry Bounce in a sealed bottle in a cool, dark place or refrigerator for up to 1 year.Flavor improves with age—shake occasionally if stored for longer periods.No reheating is needed, but serve chilled or at room temperature depending on preference.

FAQs

What kind of alcohol is best for Cherry Bounce?

Bourbon gives it warmth, vodka keeps it clean, and brandy adds richness—choose based on your flavor preference.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, just thaw them first to release juices.

How long does it last?

Properly stored, it lasts up to a year or more.

Can I eat the leftover cherries?

Yes! They’re boozy and great in desserts or over ice cream.

Is Cherry Bounce very sweet?

It’s mildly sweet with a strong cherry and alcohol presence.

Can I drink it immediately?

It needs at least a month to infuse, but longer is better.

Can I use less sugar?

Yes, adjust to taste, but too little may affect shelf life.

Does it need to be refrigerated?

Not necessarily, but refrigeration helps preserve freshness.

Can I make a larger batch?

Absolutely, just scale up the ingredients proportionally.

What’s the best way to serve Cherry Bounce?

Neat, over ice, or in cocktails like an Old Fashioned twist.

Conclusion

Cherry Bounce is a timeless homemade liqueur that captures the essence of ripe cherries in a smooth, spiced spirit. Whether you’re sipping it slowly, gifting it to friends, or mixing it into your favorite drinks, this infusion is a rewarding and delicious project. Give it time to mature, and it’ll reward you with rich, cherry-filled indulgence.

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