What is Cherry Liqueur and How Do You Use It?

Cherry liqueur is a type of fruit liqueur that is made from cherry juice, sugar, and cherry pits. It has a sweet and sour taste and can be used in many different simple cocktails. In this blog post, we will discuss what cherry liqueur is, and give you some recipes for cocktails that you can make with it!

What is Cherry Liqueur?

Cherry liqueur is a type of distilled spirit that is made from cherries. The cherries are macerated in alcohol, and then the mixture is distilled. This process extracts the flavour and aroma of the cherries, resulting in a concentrated liqueur.

Cherry liqueurs can be enjoyed on their own or used in cocktails. They are typically sweet, with a syrupy texture and a deep ruby colour.

When choosing a cherry liqueur, look for one that is made with real cherries. Avoid brands that use artificial flavouring or colouring. A quality cherry liqueur will have a complex flavour that is both sweet and tart. It should also be well-balanced, with neither the alcohol nor the sweetness overpowering the delicate flavour of the cherries.

What is kirsch and how is it different?

Kirsch is a clear, colourless cherry brandy that originated in the Black Forest region of Germany. It is made from double-distilling cherries that have been steeped in alcohol.

The cherries used for kirsch are typically sour or tart varieties, such as Morello or Griottes. In contrast, cherry liqueurs are generally made with sweet cherries and have a syrupy texture and reddish-purple colour.

Cherry liqueurs can also be made with other fruit juices or extracts, whereas kirsch must be made exclusively from cherries. Because of its unique flavour profile, kirsch is often used in cocktails and desserts. It can also be added to savoury dishes to add a touch of sweetness.

What is maraschino liqueur and how is it different?

Maraschino liqueur is a type of cherry liqueur that is made from the marasca cherry. The marasca cherry is a sour cherry that is native to Croatia. The flavour of maraschino liqueur is very intense and slightly sweet, with a strong cherry flavour. It is usually clear in colour.

Maraschino liqueur is used in a variety of cocktails, such as the classic Aviation cocktail. It can also be used in desserts, such as cherry pie or black forest cake. Cherry liqueur is a broad category that includes any liqueur that is made from cherries. There are many different types of cherry liqueurs, ranging from sweet to sour.

Cherry liqueurs can be made from any type of cherry, including the marasca cherry. However, they are typically not as intense in flavour as maraschino liqueur. Cherry liqueurs are often used in cocktails, such as the Manhattan or the Kir Royale. They can also be used in desserts or added to coffee or tea.

What’s the Difference Between Cherry Liqueur and Cherry Brandy?

When it comes to cherry-flavoured spirits, there are two main contenders: cherry liqueur and cherry brandy. Both are made by infusing cherries in alcohol, but there are some key differences between the two.

For one, cherry brandy is made with distilled alcohol, while cherry liqueur is made with vodka or wine. This gives cherry brandy a higher alcohol content, making it more potent. In addition, cherry brandy is typically made with tart cherries, while cherry liqueur can be made with either sweet or tart cherries. As a result, cherry brandy tends to be sourer and less sweet than cherry liqueur.

When it comes to mixing drinks, the cherry liqueur is more versatile than cherry brandy. Thanks to its sweeter flavour, it can be used in a wide range of cocktails, from classic Margaritas to modern creations like the Cherry Bounce. Cherry brandy, on the other hand, is best enjoyed on its own or in a very simple cocktail like the Cherry Sour.

So if you’re looking for a spirit that packs a punch, go for cherry brandy. If you’re looking for something that’s sweet and mixable, go for cherry liqueur.

What’s the Difference Between Cherry Liqueur and Cherry Schnapps?

Cherry schnapps and cherry liqueur are both alcoholic drinks made with cherries. However, there are some important differences between the two.

Cherry schnapps is a clear spirit with a high alcohol content, while cherry liqueur is a sweet, syrupy drink with a lower alcohol content. Cherry schnapps is typically made by macerating cherries in vodka or another clear spirit, while cherry liqueur is made by infusing cherries in brandy or another type of alcohol. As a result, cherry schnapps has a stronger flavor and aroma of cherries than a cherry liqueur.

Additionally, cherry schnapps is often served chilled or over ice, while cherry liqueur is usually served at room temperature. 

What Can You Mix Cherry Liqueur With?

Cherry liqueur is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed into a variety of cocktails. While it is often used in sweet drinks, cherry liqueur can also add a delicious depth of flavour to savoury dishes. Here are just a few ideas for what to mix cherry liqueur with: 

• Soda water and lime for a refreshing spritzer
• White wine for a summery sangria
• Tonic water and gin for a twist on the classic G&T
• Champagne for a festive Kir Royale
• Apple juice for a winter warmer
• Coffee for an after-dinner treat

So next time you reach for a bottle of cherry liqueur, don’t be afraid to experiment – the possibilities are endless!

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Best Cherry Liqueur Brands

Luxardo Maraschino Originale

Luxardo Maraschino Originale is a cherry liqueur made with cherries that are grown on the estate. The drink is finished by ageing in ash-wood vats to the desired maturity. The aroma is simple and full of cherries. The palate is smooth, creamy, and incredibly sweet with a touch of dark chocolate vanilla, roasted nuts, and orange marmalade coming in behind the prominent cherry taste. It’s a wonderful cocktail ingredient but also goes well poured over some fruit or gelato. 

Heering Cherry Liqueur

Heering Cherry Liqueur is a cherry-flavored liqueur that originated in Copenhagen. It’s made with Danish Steven’s cherries, which are harvested in August, and has a reddish caramel colour. The drink is thick and syrupy, with intense notes of cherry and plum. It goes well in many classic and speciality cocktails, such as the Blood and Sand and Singapore Sling.

If you’re looking for a cherry liqueur to make cocktails with, then Heering Cherry Liqueur is a great option. It’s got a long history dating back to the 1800s, it’s made with high-quality ingredients, and it’s got a complex flavour that can really elevate a cocktail.

Berentzen Wild Cherry Liqueur 

Berentezen has been around for centuries, with its liqueurs dating back to 1758. The brand started within the family but eventually expanded to share its delicious products with the world.

The liqueurs are light and fresh, made with sun-ripened cherries that are hand-selected to provide only the best flavour. The taste is sweet but not overwhelming, with a balance of flavours that create a bright palate with a clean, crisp finish.

It’s an enticing addition to many cocktails but it also tastes divine when served on the rocks. Whether you’re a fan of Berentezen or you’re trying it for the first time, you’re sure to enjoy the unique flavour and quality of this iconic liqueur.

Tattersall Sour Cherry Liqueur

Sour cherries have always been a bit of an underdog compared to their sweet counterpart. While sweet cherries are usually eaten fresh or used in desserts, sour cherries are often used in savoury dishes or made into preserves.

Tattersall Sour Cherry Liqueur seeks to change that by showcasing the sour side of cherries. Montmorency cherries are used for this expression and are aged in American oak barrels, which helps create the perfect balance of sweet and sour.

This liqueur is a great option for those who want something a little different and appreciate the tart taste of sour cherries. Whether you enjoy it neat or use it as a base for cocktails, Tattersall Sour Cherry Liqueur is sure to add some zing to your next drink.

Famous Cherry Liqueur Cocktails

Black Forest Cocktail

This classic German cocktail is the perfect drink for any cherry lover. It’s easy to make and only requires a few ingredients that are easily found at most liquor stores.

To make the Black Forest, simply shake together creme de cacao, cherry liqueur, Kirschwasser cherry brandy, and cream. Then pour into a glass and add a little more cream on top. Finish it off with a cherry, and you’re all set! This drink is sure to be a hit at your next party.

Dark Cherry Gin Fizz

The Gin Fizz is a cocktail classic but this version drops the egg white to make a cherry flavoured version that still has plenty of bubbles. Make your own cherry simple syrup to add to the drink then top it with your favourite gin. Read more about the Dark Cherry Gin Fizz.

Bob Cocktail

This Bob Cocktail is the perfect drink for any party. It’s easy to make, and it always goes over well with guests. The recipe is simple: just combine cherry brandy, amaretto, banana liqueur, and orange juice in a cocktail shaker, then shake it up and strain it into a glass. If you want to get really fancy, you can garnish the drink with an orange slice or cherry. But however you make it, this cocktail is sure to be a hit.

Cherry Sling

This recipe is for a delicious drink called a Cherry Sling. It’s a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for summer parties or anytime you want to enjoy the taste of cherries.

The ingredients are simple: cherry brandy, lemon juice, and a twist of lemon peel. Just pour the brandy and lemon juice into an old-fashioned glass over ice cubes and stir. Then add the twist of lemon peel and enjoy.

You can also experiment with different types of cherry brandy or other fruit juices to create your own unique twist on this classic drink.

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How to Make Homemade Cherry Liqueur

Making your own cherry liqueur is a simple and inexpensive way to expand your home cocktail repertoire. The best part about making your own cherry liqueur is that you can adjust the sweetness to your personal preferences. If you like your cocktails on the sweeter side, increase the amount of sugar in the recipe. If you prefer a drier drink, simply reduce the sugar or omit it altogether. There’s many a family recipe out there to help inspire you.

In addition, homemade cherry liqueur has a richer flavour than store-bought versions, making it worth the effort even for beginner bartenders. So if you’re looking to add something new to your home bar, give cherry liqueur a try. You might be surprised at how easy it is to make and how much you enjoy it.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Bing cherries, pitted
• 1 cup brandy
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick, broken (optional)

Add the cherries, brandy, vodka, and cinnamon stick to a sealable glass jar and muddle them with a wooden spoon or muddler. Collect the juice in a separate container and set it aside. Then add the brandy, vodka, and cinnamon stick to the mashed cherries. Seal and shake the jar for one week at room temperature, shaking every few days.

Combine the reserved cherry juice, sugar, and water in a pan and bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from the heat and let cool. Once the syrup has cooled, add it to the jar, seal it tightly shut, and then shake vigorously. Allow to steep for 2-5 days then sieve through a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth into a bottle or glass jar. You can store this in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

Enjoying cherry liqueurs

Cherry liqueur is a delicious and versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you like yours neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a cocktail, there’s sure to be a way to enjoy cherry liqueur that fits your taste. If you’re looking for something extra special, why not try making your own cherry liqueur? It’s an easy process that results in a delicious end product.

What’s your favourite recipe for using this sweet and tangy drink?

More cherry cocktail recipes