- American
- Dessert
- Beverage
- Holiday
- Winter
Cherry Maceration
This vibrant cherry maceration is all about patience and reward. Fresh cherries steep in a rich mixture of bourbon, orange Curaçao, maraschino liqueur, warm spices, and vanilla pods, slowly developing deep, complex flavors over at least a month. Perfect for topping desserts, mixing into cocktails, or enjoying on their own, these cherries become an irresistible, boozy treat. Best of all, they continue to improve as they rest, making them a beautiful homemade addition to your pantry or a special gift.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 3 mo
- Total
- 3 mo 15 min
- Servings
- 24
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Yield
- 3 qt
Instructions
Sterilize the jar
Sterilize a 3-quart mason jar, or several smaller jars, by filling them with boiling water. Make sure to pour some boiling water over the inside of the lids as well. Let sit for 5 minutes, then carefully drain.
Fill the jar
Place the cherries, bourbon, orange Curaçao, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, water, vanilla beans, cinnamon sticks, and orange peels into the sterilized jar. If using smaller jars, divide the ingredients evenly among them.
Stir gently
Using a long sterilized spoon, stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Macerate
Seal the jar tightly. Store in a cool, dry place for at least 1 month, preferably 2–3 months, to allow the flavors to develop.
Use and store
When ready to use, strain the desired amount through a sieve. Reseal and store the remaining cherries in the jar. They will keep well for up to 6 months.
Recipe by
Russell Toris
@russell-toris