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Perfect Cherry Bounce Recipe

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A simple and delicious bourbon-soaked cherry recipe that infuses fresh cherries with rich bourbon flavor, perfect for cocktails, desserts, or snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds fresh cherries (preferably Bing or Rainier), stems removed, pits left in
  • 2 cups bourbon (e.g., Buffalo Trace or any good-quality bourbon)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 vanilla bean split lengthwise or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the fresh cherries under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel. Remove the stems but leave the pits in for authentic flavor.
  2. Place cherries in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over them and gently toss to coat all cherries. Let sit for about 20 minutes to draw out juices.
  3. Transfer the sugared cherries into a large glass jar. Add the split vanilla bean or vanilla extract, cinnamon stick if using, and lemon zest. Pour bourbon over the cherries, ensuring they are fully submerged. Gently shake the jar to mix.
  4. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place or refrigerator. Let the cherries soak for at least 2 weeks, shaking gently every few days to stir the infusion.
  5. After soaking, optionally strain the bourbon from cherries to use as a liqueur or leave cherries in the jar for snacking and cocktail garnishes.

Notes

Do not rush soaking time; 2 weeks is best for flavor depth. Leave pits in cherries for subtle almond flavor but be cautious when eating. Shake jar gently every few days. Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerator. Frozen cherries can be used but fresh are preferred.

Nutrition

Keywords: cherry bounce, bourbon-soaked cherries, bourbon liqueur, cocktail garnish, homemade liqueur, bourbon cherries