Cherry Bounce Recipe is a classic homemade cordial that has delighted generations with its rich, fruity flavors. Made from simple ingredients like cherries, sugar, and alcohol, it’s a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in cocktails, sipped on its own, or used as a dessert topping.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making Cherry Bounce Recipe, along with tips on how to customize the recipe, common mistakes to avoid, and creative ways to serve it. We’ll also explore some exciting internal links to related recipes that can complement your Cherry Bounce experience!
What is Cherry Bounce?
Cherry Bounce Recipe is a cordial made from soaking cherries in alcohol, traditionally brandy or bourbon, and sweetened with sugar. It’s a drink steeped in history, dating back to the colonial era when it was a favorite of George Washington himself.
The beauty of Cherry Bounce lies in its versatility—you can use any type of cherry, experiment with different spirits, and even add spices like cinnamon or vanilla. This homemade cordial is perfect for the holidays and makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
For tips on how to efficiently pit cherries for this recipe, check out this guide to pitting cherries.
Ingredients for Cherry Bounce
To make Cherry Bounce, you’ll need:
- Cherries (2 pounds) – Sour cherries are often preferred, but sweet cherries work as well.
- Alcohol (4 cups) – Brandy, bourbon, or rum.
- Sugar (1-2 cups) – Adjust the amount of sugar based on how sweet you like it.
- Optional spices – Cinnamon sticks, cloves, or a vanilla bean for added flavor depth.
Ingredient Variations
The fun of making Cherry Bounce is in the customization. Feel free to add a citrus twist with orange zest or swap out sugar for honey. You can even create a non-alcoholic version by replacing the liquor with fruit juice.
If you enjoy experimenting with dessert toppings, consider pairing your Cherry Bounce with something like old-fashioned peanut butter chocolate frosting, which makes for a decadent treat.
How to Make Cherry Bounce
1. Prepare the Cherries
Start by washing and pitting your cherries. Some people leave the pits in the mix for a slight almond-like flavor, but this is optional.
2. Combine Ingredients
In a large jar, layer the cherries with sugar. Pour your chosen alcohol over the cherries and add any spices. Seal the jar tightly.
3. Age the Mixture
Store the jar in a dark, cool place for at least 4 weeks. The longer it ages, the better the flavor—some people let it sit for up to 6 months. Stir the mixture every week or so to help the sugar dissolve.
4. Strain and Serve
Once the mixture has aged to your liking, strain the liquid into bottles. You can discard the cherries or save them to use as a dessert topping.
For another fantastic homemade treat, you could also try pairing this with easy no-bake pumpkin oatmeal cups for a seasonal flair.
How to Serve Cherry Bounce
There are many ways to enjoy Cherry Bounce:
- Straight up: Serve it over ice or neat.
- In cocktails: Mix it with club soda, ginger ale, or tonic water for a refreshing drink.
- As a dessert topping: The cherries soaked in alcohol can be used as a topping for ice cream, cheesecake, or cake.
It’s especially popular during the holidays, making it a great addition to your Christmas cocktail menu.
If you’re interested in more cozy and indulgent treats for the holidays, check out the ultimate guide to smoked ham rub recipes to elevate your festive meals.
Tips and Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using unripe cherries: Make sure your cherries are ripe for the best flavor.
- Not letting it age long enough: Be patient! Let the mixture age for at least a month.
- Too much sugar: It’s easier to add more sugar later than to remove it, so start with less.
Proper Storage
Store Cherry Bounce in a cool, dark place. Once strained, it can last for months—if not longer—so you can enjoy it throughout the year.
Cherry Bounce Variations
While traditional Southern Cherry Bounce uses brandy, there are plenty of variations you can try:
- Citrus Twist: Add orange zest or lemon zest for a citrusy kick.
- Herbal Version: Include herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory spin.
- Non-Alcoholic: Replace the alcohol with fruit juice for a booze-free version.
Pairing your Cherry Bounce with an easy homemade meal like creamy garlic chicken pasta will make for a complete and satisfying experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Cherry Bounce made of?
Cherry Bounce typically consists of cherries, alcohol (usually brandy or bourbon), and sugar. Some variations also include spices like cinnamon or cloves.
Does Cherry Bounce ferment?
Cherry Bounce is more of an infusion process, where the cherries release their flavors into the alcohol over time, rather than a true fermentation.
How long does Cherry Bounce need to sit?
Cherry Bounce should sit for at least 4-6 weeks, though some prefer to let it age for up to 6 months for a richer flavor.
How long to smoke cherries for Cherry Bounce?
If you want to smoke the cherries before adding them to the mixture, 1-2 hours of smoking should suffice to give them a rich, smoky flavor.
Conclusion
Making Cherry Bounce is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to preserve the taste of cherries while creating a delicious cordial that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you like it on its own, mixed into cocktails, or as a dessert topping, the possibilities are endless.
Don’t forget to explore some creative pairings, like delicious chicken pizza crust, to complete your homemade culinary experience.