Cherry Bounce Recipe

Cherry Bounce is a timeless treat that beautifully marries the tartness of fresh cherries with the warmth of aged spirits.

This classic recipe has a fascinating history, dating back to early American settlers who discovered the magic of preserving their bountiful harvests in spirits.

Cherry Bounce was a favorite in the 19th century for its ability to infuse summer’s brightness into the colder months.

What makes Cherry Bounce particularly special is its adaptability. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized with spices like cinnamon or cloves, depending on your taste.

This recipe has gained renewed popularity as people rediscover the charm of homemade liqueurs and the joy of DIY gifts. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those summer cherries before they’re gone.

If you’ve ever wondered how to capture the essence of cherry season in a bottle, this Cherry Bounce recipe is your answer.

Why I Love This Recipe?

• Personal Touch: I started making Cherry Bounce as a way to preserve the sweet, fleeting cherry season. It’s now a cherished tradition.
• Versatile Delight: This liqueur adds a special touch to cocktails and desserts, making it perfect for gatherings and personal treats.
• Customizable Flavor: Over the years, I’ve played around with different spices, and each batch brings a new flavor adventure.
• Thoughtful Gift: Homemade Cherry Bounce makes an impressive, heartfelt gift that’s always a hit with friends and family.

Cherry Bounce Recipe

Make your own Cherry Bounce with fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, alcohol, and warm spices. Aged to perfection, it’s a delicious homemade liquor for any occasion.

4.91 from 10 votes

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Course: Beverage, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Additional Time: 42 days days

Total Time: 42 days days 20 minutes minutes

Calories: 85kcal

Author: Austin Carter

Servings: 4 cups

Equipment

• ▢
  2-quart jar with a tight-fitting lid
• ▢
  Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• ▢
  Large measuring cup or bowl
• ▢
  1-quart jar with a lid

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 lb. fresh or frozen whole tart and/or sweet cherries
• ▢ 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• ▢ 4 cups vodka brandy, or bourbon
• ▢ 1/4 cinnamon stick
• ▢ 2 whole cloves
• ▢ 1 allspice berry
• ▢ 1 pinch freshly grated or ground nutmeg

Instructions

• Prepare the cherries: Prick fresh cherries with a knife tip or thaw frozen cherries and reserve the juices.
  
• Combine ingredients: Pour alcohol into a 2-quart jar. Add sugar, cover, and shake until dissolved.
  
• Add cherries and spices: Add cherries, reserved juices, cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg. Cover and shake to combine.
  
• Let it age: Place the jar in a warm, bright spot for 1 week. Then transfer it to a cool, dark spot for 6 weeks to 3 months.
  
• Strain the bounce: Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl, discarding solids.
  
• Settle the liquid: Let the liquid stand overnight to allow sediment to settle.
• Store: Carefully pour or ladle the liquid into a clean 1-quart jar, leaving sediment behind. Store tightly covered at cool room temperature or in the refrigerator.
  

Nutrition

Calories: 85kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 10g

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Tips You Must Know!

• Pit the Cherries First: Pitting the cherries allows the alcohol to infuse better and makes the cherries easier to use later for eating or baking.
• Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Keep the jar in a cool, dark location for at least two months before using it to ensure proper aging.
• Maintain Submersion: The cherries will last as long as they are covered by alcohol. If you pour off some of the liquid, remove any cherries that become exposed to prevent spoiling.
• Long-Term Storage: As long as the cherries remain fully submerged, cherry bounce can be stored at room temperature indefinitely. I have a batch that’s nearly two years old and still delicious!
• Use the Preserved Cherries: These cherries are perfect for garnishing drinks, enjoying as a boozy treat, or baking in any recipe that calls for cherries.