How to Make Homemade Cherry Liqueur
How would you rate this cherry liqueur recipe?
Ripened Cherries
The beginning of July in Michigan is a cherry extravaganza! Traverse City, Michigan claims that it is the cherry capital of the world and it hosts a delicious festival every year around the 4th of July. While I'm not really convinced that it is the cherry capital of the world, I would definitely agree that it is the cherry capital of the Midwest.
I am fortunate enough that my in-laws have a farm with an abundance of fruit trees, some of which are cherry trees. Along with the more standard cherry fare, like pies and coffee cakes, a favorite among the adults is homemade cherry liqueur. It is so delicious that it has because the expected drink to be served at summer gatherings at my house. Even my neighbors now expect me to bring some along when we have our neighborhood bonfires. The gorgeous dark red color, thick syrupy and sweet taste of the drink, along with the intensity of the alcohol will make you want to go back for more. The best part? It is sooo easy to make and it will last you a good amount of time. Well, that is if you don't have friends that like it as much as mine do. So I guess you'd better make a large batch!
Picture Guide to Making the Cherry Cordial
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Ingredients for Cherry Liqueur or Cherry Cordial
- 5 pounds tart cherries
- 2-3 pounds sugar
- Vodka
Directions for Cherry Liqueur
- Put about 5 pounds of tart cherries in a glass jar.
- Add about 2-3 pounds of sugar. Place cap on the jar and let sit in the sun for about a week. Be sure that the sugar has completely melted.
- This will form a syrupy mixture. Once the sugar has dissolved, strain the cherries so that the liquid is in a separate container. You can use the cherries for another recipe, discard them, or keep a few to add to your drink when it is served.
- One cup at a time, add equal parts of cherry juice and vodka. Pour into glass jars to store or into glasses to serve.
Giving Cherry Liqueur as Gifts
This is a beautiful, delicious, and easy gift to give to friends and family for the holidays or for a host or hostess when you are invited for a gathering. You can easily find some beautiful decorative glass jars to place your homemade liqueur in with a customized label for your friends and family.
Serving and Drinking the Cherry Liqueur
Please be aware that this is not cherry wine and should not be served or drank from a large wine glass. It is best served in a cordial glass where one can sip the drink slowly and enjoy the cherry flavor.
