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This Bourbon Cherry Cola Cocktail is a delightful blend of bold bourbon, sweet cherry juice, and fizzy cola, perfect for sipping on warm evenings or at celebratory gatherings. It’s a nostalgic yet sophisticated drink that brings back memories of warm summers with friends and family. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare while delivering a unique and balanced flavor profile.
I first crafted this cocktail while experimenting with leftover cherries from dessert, and the reaction from my friends made it an instant hit at every gathering since.
Ingredients
- Bourbon: Mildly smoky and full-bodied, it serves as the core of the cocktail’s depth
- Cola: Sweet and fizzy, perfectly complements the bourbon’s rich notes
- Cherry juice: Brings a tart sweetness that elevates the drink’s complexity
- Fresh lime juice: Adds a zesty kick to balance the sweetness
- Maraschino cherries: The perfect garnish to make the cocktail visually striking and delicious
- Frozen cherries: Adds a chill and fruity touch while doubling as ice cubes
- Ice cubes: Essential for keeping the drink cold if you're not using the frozen cherries
How To Make Bourbon Cherry Cola Cocktail
- Prepare the Shaker:
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with fresh ice. This ensures the cocktail chills properly while combining the flavors smoothly.
- Combine the Liquids:
- Add bourbon, cherry juice, and lime juice into the shaker, ensuring the flavors mingle perfectly.
- Shake Until Cold:
- Give the shaker a firm but gentle shake until the ingredients are thoroughly chilled. This step is crucial for achieving a refreshing cocktail.
- Build the Cocktail:
- Strain the mixture into a tall glass packed with ice or frozen cherries, creating a cold and flavorful base.
- Topping with Cola:
- Pour the cola over the strained mixture, letting the fizz naturally blend the drink. Be sure to stir gently using a bar spoon to maintain the bubbles.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Finish by adding a few maraschino cherries for garnish. Serve immediately to enjoy the texture, fizz, and robust flavors while fresh and cold.
My favorite part of this cocktail is the maraschino cherries. Once, my niece playfully stole all of the garnishing cherries before I served the drinks, sparking laughter and a memorable family moment we still talk about today.
Storage Tips
While ideal when served fresh, you can prepare the bourbon and cherry juice mixture ahead of time. Simply refrigerate and top with cola and lime juice when ready to serve. This saves time and keeps your cocktail tasting fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with a creamy cherry or vanilla soda for a fun and fizzy mocktail everyone can enjoy. You can also experiment with flavored sparkling water for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with grilled foods, salty snacks, or rich chocolate desserts. It’s equally delightful at casual backyard barbecues or formal holiday dinners.
This versatile cocktail has secured a permanent spot in my hosting repertoire and is guaranteed to impress your guests while being effortless to make. Enjoy creating a new tradition with this flavorful crowd-pleaser.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen cherries instead of ice?
Yes, frozen cherries are a great substitute for ice. They keep the drink cold and add extra fruity flavor.
- → What type of bourbon works best?
A smooth, mid-range bourbon works well to complement the sweetness of the cherry juice and cola.
- → Is fresh cherry juice better than jarred?
Jarred or bottled cherry juice is more convenient, but fresh cherry juice offers a richer flavor. Both options work wonderfully.
- → Can I make this non-alcoholic?
For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and increase the cherry juice and cola proportions for a tasty mocktail.
- → What glassware should I use?
A tall glass, such as a highball or Collins glass, is the best choice for serving this cocktail for an elegant presentation.