Cherry Bourbon Cola: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Cocktail

Cherry Bourbon Cola: Prepare to be transported back to simpler times with a sophisticated twist! Imagine the nostalgic fizz of cola, the sweet burst of ripe cherries, and the smooth warmth of bourbon, all mingling in a symphony of flavor. This isn’t just a drink; it’s a celebration in a glass, perfect for summer evenings, cozy gatherings, or simply treating yourself after a long day.

While the exact origins of combining cherry and cola are somewhat shrouded in mystery, the pairing has long been a beloved classic in American soda fountains and diners. The addition of bourbon elevates this familiar flavor profile, adding a layer of complexity and depth that transforms it into an adult indulgence. Think of it as a grown-up version of your favorite childhood treat!

People adore this cherry bourbon cola for its delightful balance of sweet, tart, and boozy notes. The cherry adds a fruity sweetness that complements the caramel undertones of the cola, while the bourbon provides a warming kick that lingers on the palate. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it the ideal cocktail for both seasoned mixologists and casual drink enthusiasts. The effervescence of the cola also makes it incredibly refreshing, ensuring that each sip is as invigorating as it is delicious. So, are you ready to experience the magic of this classic combination?

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Cherry Bourbon Cola Syrup:
• 2 cups pitted fresh or frozen sweet cherries (if frozen, thaw slightly)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup bourbon (I prefer a smooth, slightly sweet bourbon)
• 1/4 cup cola extract (available online or at specialty brewing stores)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a lovely depth)
• Pinch of sea salt
• For the Cherry Bourbon Cola Cocktail:
• 2 ounces Cherry Bourbon Cola Syrup (recipe above)
• 2 ounces bourbon (same as used in the syrup, or your favorite)
• 4 ounces club soda or sparkling water, chilled
• Ice cubes
• Garnish: Fresh cherries, orange slice, or a sprig of mint (optional)

Preparing the Cherry Bourbon Cola Syrup:

1. Combine Cherries, Sugar, and Water: In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and water. Stir well to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.
2. Simmer the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to boil it rapidly, as this can scorch the sugar. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Cook Down the Cherries: Continue to simmer the mixture for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cherries have softened and released their juices. The mixture should have thickened slightly. You’ll notice the cherries start to break down and the liquid becomes a deep, rich red color. Use the back of a spoon to gently mash the cherries against the side of the pan to help release more flavor.
4. Strain the Syrup (Optional, but Recommended): For a smoother syrup, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth. This will remove any cherry solids and create a clearer syrup. Place the sieve over a bowl and pour the cherry mixture into it. Allow the syrup to drip through naturally. You can gently press on the solids with the back of a spoon to extract as much syrup as possible, but avoid forcing it, as this can make the syrup cloudy. Discard the cherry solids or save them for another use (like topping ice cream!). If you prefer a chunkier syrup, skip this step.
5. Add Bourbon and Cola Extract: Return the strained (or unstrained) syrup to the saucepan. Stir in the bourbon, cola extract, lemon juice, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and a pinch of sea salt.
6. Simmer Briefly: Bring the mixture back to a very gentle simmer over low heat. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the flavors to meld together. Be careful not to boil the syrup after adding the bourbon, as this can cause the alcohol to evaporate.
7. Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the syrup to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The syrup will thicken slightly as it cools.

Making the Cherry Bourbon Cola Cocktail:

1. Prepare Your Glass: Fill a highball glass or rocks glass with ice cubes. The amount of ice is up to you, but I like to fill the glass almost to the top.
2. Add the Syrup and Bourbon: Pour 2 ounces of the Cherry Bourbon Cola Syrup into the glass over the ice. Then, add 2 ounces of bourbon. I recommend using the same bourbon you used in the syrup for a consistent flavor profile, but feel free to experiment with different bourbons to find your favorite combination.
3. Top with Club Soda: Top the glass with 4 ounces of chilled club soda or sparkling water. Pour slowly to avoid excessive fizzing. You can adjust the amount of club soda to your liking, depending on how sweet and strong you prefer your cocktail.
4. Stir Gently: Use a long spoon or cocktail stirrer to gently stir the ingredients together. Be careful not to over-stir, as this can cause the club soda to lose its carbonation. A few gentle stirs are all you need to combine the syrup, bourbon, and club soda.
5. Garnish (Optional): Garnish your Cherry Bourbon Cola Cocktail with fresh cherries, an orange slice, or a sprig of mint. A maraschino cherry also works well for a classic touch. Get creative and use whatever garnishes you have on hand or that complement the flavors of the cocktail.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve your Cherry Bourbon Cola Cocktail immediately and enjoy! This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, as the club soda will lose its fizz over time.

Tips and Variations:

• Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the syrup recipe or use less syrup in the cocktail. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice to balance the sweetness.
• Using Different Cherries: While sweet cherries are my preference for this recipe, you can also use tart cherries for a more complex flavor. If using tart cherries, you may need to add a bit more sugar to the syrup to balance the tartness.
• Bourbon Selection: The type of bourbon you use will significantly impact the flavor of the cocktail. I recommend using a smooth, slightly sweet bourbon, such as Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve. However, feel free to experiment with different bourbons to find your favorite. A higher proof bourbon will give the cocktail a stronger kick.
• Cola Extract Alternatives: If you can’t find cola extract, you can try using a cola-flavored simple syrup or a small amount of cola soda in the syrup recipe. However, the flavor will be slightly different.
• Making a Mocktail: To make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail, simply omit the bourbon and use a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative or more club soda. You can also add a splash of cherry juice for extra flavor.
• Sparkling Wine Variation: For a more festive cocktail, replace the club soda with sparkling wine or Prosecco. This will add a touch of elegance and make the cocktail perfect for celebrations.
• Infused Bourbon: For an extra layer of cherry flavor, consider infusing your bourbon with cherries before making the syrup or cocktail. To do this, combine bourbon and pitted cherries in a jar and let it sit for a few days or weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain the bourbon before using.
• Freezing the Syrup: If you want to store the syrup for longer than 2 weeks, you can freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the syrup cubes to a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. This is a great way to have the syrup on hand whenever you want to make a Cherry Bourbon Cola Cocktail.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicy twist, add a small piece of fresh ginger or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the syrup while it’s simmering. This will add a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the cherries and the warmth of the bourbon.
• Smoked Cherry Bourbon Cola: For a smoky flavor, use a smoked bourbon or add a few drops of liquid smoke to the syrup. You can also garnish the cocktail with a smoked cherry.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the Cherry Bourbon Cola Cocktail as an aperitif before dinner or as a refreshing drink on a warm day.
• Pair it with grilled meats, burgers, or spicy dishes.
• Offer it at parties and gatherings as a unique and flavorful cocktail option.
• Present it in a beautiful glass with a garnish that complements the flavors of the drink.

Enjoy responsibly!

Conclusion:

This Cherry Bourbon Cola isn’t just another drink; it’s an experience. The sweet, tart cherries perfectly complement the smooth warmth of the bourbon, all fizzing together in a symphony of flavor that’s both refreshing and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of cocktail that elevates any occasion, from a casual backyard barbecue to a sophisticated evening gathering. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this, you’ll understand why I’m so excited to share it with you.

But the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! No fancy bartending skills required, just a few simple ingredients and a willingness to indulge in something truly special. The combination of the cherry, bourbon, and cola is a classic for a reason, but this recipe takes it to a whole new level with the addition of fresh cherries and a touch of homemade cherry syrup (optional, but highly recommended!).

Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving this Cherry Bourbon Cola over ice in a tall glass, garnished with a few extra cherries and a sprig of mint. For a more festive presentation, you could even rim the glass with sugar or a cherry-flavored salt. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try these variations?

* Spicy Kick: Add a slice of jalapeño to the glass for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
* Smoked Cherry: Use smoked cherries for an extra layer of depth and complexity.
* Bourbon Selection: Experiment with different bourbons to find your perfect match. A higher-proof bourbon will give it more of a kick, while a sweeter bourbon will enhance the cherry flavor.
* Cola Choice: Don’t be afraid to try different colas! A craft cola with natural flavors can really elevate the drink.
* Cherry Ice Cubes: Freeze cherries in ice cubes for a beautiful and flavorful addition.

Beyond these suggestions, feel free to get creative and experiment with your own variations. Maybe a splash of lime juice? Or a dash of bitters? The possibilities are endless!

I truly believe this Cherry Bourbon Cola will become your new go-to cocktail. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and boozy, and it’s guaranteed to impress your friends and family. But don’t just take my word for it – try it for yourself!

I’m so eager to hear what you think. Once you’ve had a chance to whip up a batch of this deliciousness, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Did you make any modifications? What was your favorite bourbon to use? What did your guests think? Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to improve and share recipes that you’ll love. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best Cherry Bourbon Cola you’ve ever tasted! Cheers!