Brandied cherries are a versatile ingredient that can add a touch of sweetness and sophistication to any cocktail. These cherries are preserved in maraschino liqueur, wich gives them a distinct flavor and aroma that pairs well with a variety of spirits. Here are a few recipes for brandied cherry cocktails that you can try at home:
1. Manhattan with Brandied Cherries – This classic cocktail is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Adding a few brandied cherries to the mix gives it a fruity twist that balances out the richness of the whiskey. To make a Manhattan with brandied cherries, combine 2 oz. whiskey, 1 oz. sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a few brandied cherries on a cocktail pick.
2. Old Fashioned with Brandied Cherries – Another classic cocktail that can be elevated with the addition of brandied cherries is the Old Fashioned. This drink is traditionally made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a citrus peel. Adding brandied cherries to the mix adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color. To make an Old Fashioned with brandied cherries, muddle a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and an orange peel in a glass. Add 2 oz. whiskey and stir well. Add ice and garnish with a few brandied cherries on a cocktail pick.
3. Brandied Cherry Sour – If you prefer a more fruity and refreshing cocktail, the Brandied Cherry Sour is a great option. This drink is made with brandy, lemon juice, simple syrup, and of course, brandied cherries. To make a Brandied Cherry Sour, combine 2 oz. brandy, 1 oz. lemon juice, and 1 oz. simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a few brandied cherries on a cocktail pick.
Brandied cherries are a delicious and easy way to elevate your cocktails. Whether you prefer a classic Manhattan or a refreshing sour, adding a few brandied cherries to the mix will add a touch of sweetness and sophistication to your drink. Try experimenting with different spirits and mixers to create your own brandied cherry cocktail masterpiece.
Are Maraschino Cherries the Same as Brandied Cherries?
Maraschino cherries are often referred to as brandied cherries, however, this is not entirely accurate. While brandied cherries are cherries preserved in brandy, maraschino cherries are preserved in a liqueur called maraschino. Maraschino liqueur is made from the distillation of Marasca cherries, which are a sour cherry variety native to Croatia.
It is important to note that even though maraschino cherries are preserved in maraschino liqueur, the liqueur itself is not a brandy. In fact, many companies that produce maraschino liqueur do not use it in their maraschino cherries. The process of making maraschino cherries involves soaking the cherries in a mixture of sugar, water, and food coloring, alog with a small amount of maraschino liqueur for flavor.
Therefore, while maraschino cherries are often wrongly referred to as brandied cherries, they are not the same thing. Maraschino cherries are preserved in maraschino liqueur, which is not a brandy, and the cherries themselves are not soaked in brandy.
How Long Can Brandied Cherries Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
Brandied cherries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 year. It is recommended to keep them in an airtight container and to store them in the back of the fridge where the temperature is most consistent. If you choose to can the brandied cherries, they can keep just as long in a cool, dark room. However, it is important to ensure that the jars are properly sealed and that there are no signs of spoilage before consuming.
The Soaking Liquid Used for Cocktail Cherries
Cocktail cherries are typically soaked in a brine solution that is composed of calcium chloride and sulfur dioxide. The soaking process is intended to bleach the cherries, which removes their natural red pigment and flavor. The cherries are left in the brine solution for a period of four to six weeks, during which time they absorb the flavors and preservatives present in the solution. This process results in the bright red color and characteristic sweet-tart flavor that cocktail cherries are known for.
Conclusion
Brandied cherries are a delicious and flavorful addition to any cocktail. Though they are not actally preserved in brandy, they are soaked in maraschino liqueur, giving them a unique and sweet taste. When making cocktails, it is important to use high-quality brandied cherries, such as Luxardo, and to store them properly in the refrigerator to ensure their freshness and longevity. With their bright red color and rich flavor, brandied cherries are sure to elevate any cocktail from ordinary to extraordinary. So, next time you mix up a drink, don't forget to add a few of these delicious cherries for an added touch of sophistication and flavor.
