Theo Nash
Alcohol-soaked cherries, also known as drunken cherries, are a popular treat that can be made with various types of alcohol, including vodka, rum, bourbon, brandy, and even fireball (cinnamon whiskey). The process involves soaking fresh or dried cherries in alcohol for anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, resulting in boozy cherries that can be enjoyed as a snack or used in cocktails, baked goods, or other recipes. The alcohol takes on the flavor and color of the cherries, creating a unique and tasty liqueur. Sugar is often added to the mixture to enhance the sweetness and can be adjusted to personal preference. While vodka is a popular choice for its ability to showcase the cherry flavor, other alcohols like vanilla vodka, amaretto, and fireball can add interesting flavor profiles to the cherries. The longer the cherries soak, the more potent they become, making them a fun and versatile ingredient for adult palates.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Alcohol | Vodka, Rum, Bourbon, Brandy, Amaretto, Fireball, Tequila, Whiskey |
| Type of Cherries | Fresh, Maraschino, Dried Tart, Bing, Ranier |
| Additional Ingredients | Sugar, White Chocolate, Orange Zest |
| Soaking Time | Minimum 24 hours; the longer they soak, the stronger they get |
| Use | Snacking, Baking, Garnishing Cocktails |
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What You'll Learn
Alcohol options: vodka, rum, bourbon, brandy, and more
Vodka is a popular choice for soaking cherries in, with many people recommending it as the alcohol of choice. It pairs well with cherries, as the sweetness of the cherries infuses with the vodka, resulting in a sweet syrup that accompanies the vodka-soaked cherries. The longer the cherries soak, the more potent they become, and the vodka takes on a ruby red hue from the cherries. You can use any vodka, from cheap to expensive, flavoured or plain, though a good quality vodka is recommended.
Rum is another option, with both white rum and flavoured rum (such as coconut rum) being recommended. A Reddit user describes how they soak dried tart cherries in white rum for two weeks or longer, resulting in tasty rum-soaked cherries and cherry liqueur.
Bourbon is also a common alcohol to soak cherries in, and is a great option for homemade cocktail cherries.
Brandy is another popular choice for soaking cherries, and is a traditional option, with 'brandied fruits' being served as a dessert in the 18th century.
Other alcohol options for soaking cherries include gin, tequila, and cinnamon whiskey (Fireball).
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Sugar: plain granulated sugar is fine
Sugar is an important ingredient when it comes to soaking cherries in alcohol. Plain granulated sugar is fine to use, and it's best to start with a small amount and add more to taste. The sugar is added to the alcohol and stirred until dissolved before the cherries are added.
Sugar is not always necessary when soaking cherries in alcohol. Some recipes suggest that the sugar is optional, and you can choose to omit it if you prefer your cherries less sweet. One recipe recommends dried tart cherries, which are already sweetened, so no additional sugar is required.
The amount of sugar you use will depend on your taste preferences and the sweetness of the cherries. If you are using sweet cherries, such as Bing cherries, you may not need as much sugar. However, if your cherries are not very sweet, you may want to add more sugar to enhance their flavour.
The sugar also helps to preserve the cherries and can affect their texture. One source suggests that the sugar and alcohol can change the shape and texture of the cherries over an extended period. Therefore, it is recommended to use unpitted cherries to help them maintain their structure.
Overall, plain granulated sugar is a suitable option for soaking cherries in alcohol, but you can adjust the amount used or omit it altogether depending on your preferences and the type of cherries you are using.
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![Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble | Approximately 65 Cherries Per 400G Jar. [Pack of 2]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/718Dk6emtBL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
Cherry types: Bing cherries, Ranier cherries, maraschino cherries
Cherries can be soaked in a variety of alcohols, including vodka, gin, bourbon, rum, tequila, amaretto, and cinnamon whiskey. The type of cherry used can vary as well, with Bing cherries, Ranier cherries, and maraschino cherries all being suitable options.
Bing cherries are a popular choice for drunken cherries due to their sweet flavor and ruby red hue. When soaked in vodka, the cherries take on a boozy, intense flavor while simultaneously infusing the vodka with their own color and aroma. This simple recipe typically involves trimming the stems of the cherries, packing them tightly into jars, and then pouring in the desired alcohol. The longer Bing cherries soak, the more their color and flavor will be imparted to the alcohol, resulting in a tasty liquor that can be sipped as a digestif.
Ranier cherries can also be used for drunken cherries and will result in a similarly delicious treat. The process for soaking Ranier cherries is the same as for Bing cherries, and the type of alcohol used can be tailored to personal preference. Whether using vodka, rum, or another spirit, the combination of Ranier cherries and alcohol creates a potent and flavorful snack.
Maraschino cherries are another type of cherry that can be soaked in alcohol. One unique recipe involves soaking the cherries in alcohol of choice, such as amaretto or vanilla vodka, and then dipping them in chocolate. This creates a tasty treat that is perfect for parties or holiday gatherings. The alcohol-soaked maraschino cherries can also be used to make Shirley Temples, a kid-friendly drink made with lemon-lime soda and a splash of grenadine or maraschino cherry juice.
Overall, the process of soaking cherries in alcohol is a simple one that allows for creativity and experimentation. Whether using Bing, Ranier, or maraschino cherries, and whether soaking them in vodka, rum, or another spirit, the result is a delicious, boozy treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or used to enhance cocktails.
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Soaking time: a few hours to a few weeks
Soaking cherries in alcohol is a simple process that can yield delicious results. The type of alcohol used is a matter of personal preference, with vodka, rum, bourbon, brandy, and even cinnamon whiskey being popular choices. The length of time you choose to soak your cherries will impact their flavour and potency, with longer soaks resulting in stronger, more alcoholic cherries.
For a quick soak, a few hours at room temperature or a 24-hour chill in the refrigerator will do the trick. These cherries will have a mild alcoholic kick and can be ready to enjoy the same day you make them. This short soak is perfect if you're in a hurry or want to retain a more subtle cherry flavour in your alcohol of choice.
If you're looking for something with a bit more punch, you can try soaking your cherries for a few days or up to a week. This longer soak will result in cherries with a stronger alcoholic content. They will be perfect for adding to cocktails or enjoying as a boozy snack.
For those who want to really pack a punch, you can try soaking your cherries for two weeks or longer. This extended soak is often done with dried cherries, which have a longer shelf life and can withstand the lengthy immersion. The resulting cherries will be very potent, and the alcohol will take on a strong cherry flavour, creating a delicious cherry liqueur.
The length of time you choose to soak your cherries is a matter of personal preference and can be tailored to your desired outcome. Whether you're looking for a quick soak to enhance your cocktail or a lengthy soak to create a potent treat, drunken cherries are a fun and easy way to infuse alcohol with the sweet flavour of summer fruit.
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Uses: cocktails, desserts, snacks, gifts
Alcohol-soaked cherries are a versatile treat with a variety of uses. Here are some ways to utilise these boozy fruits:
Cocktails
Alcohol-soaked cherries are a fantastic addition to cocktails, adding a burst of flavour and a sophisticated touch. You can use any type of alcohol to soak the cherries, including brandy, bourbon, vodka, rum, or tequila. The type of alcohol you choose will impart a unique flavour to your cocktails. For example, brandy or bourbon-soaked cherries pair perfectly with Manhattans and Old-Fashioneds, or even a Shirley Temple. Soaking cherries in alcohol also enhances the cocktail's presentation, providing a colourful and enticing garnish.
Desserts
Soaking cherries in alcohol is a traditional way to preserve them, resulting in what was historically known as "brandy fruits." These alcohol-infused cherries can be served as a dessert, often accompanied by the flavoured liquor. The liquor itself can be sipped as a digestif, similar to Italian limoncello. Additionally, the syrup created during the soaking process can be utilised in baking, drizzled over desserts like cherry pie or clafoutis for an extra layer of flavour.
Snacks
Alcohol-soaked cherries make for a delightful adult snack. Fortified with sugar and your preferred alcohol, they offer a tipsy treat. The longer these cherries soak, the more potent they become, making them an ideal indulgent snack for game nights or casual get-togethers with friends.
Gifts
Alcohol-soaked cherries are unique and thoughtful gifts, especially around the holidays. You can prepare these cherries during the summer, when fresh cherries are in season, and let them soak for several months. By the time the holidays arrive, you'll have a beautifully coloured and flavoured treat to gift to your friends and family. They'll appreciate the time and effort that went into creating these delicious, boozy cherries.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use any kind of alcohol to soak cherries, including vodka, rum, bourbon, brandy, gin, tequila, and whiskey.
Fresh cherries are best, although you can use frozen cherries with a shorter soak time. Bing cherries are a popular choice, but you could also use Ranier or Maraschino cherries.
You can soak the cherries for as long as you like, but be aware that the longer they soak, the stronger they will be. Most recipes recommend soaking for at least 24 hours, and up to a few weeks.
Soaked cherries can be used in a variety of ways. You can eat them as a snack, use them as a garnish for cocktails or other drinks, or add them to baked goods such as brownies. You can also dip them in chocolate for a sweet treat.
