Cherry Herring
A delightful homemade cherry liqueur with fresh sour cherries and vodka, perfect as an after-dinner cordial or a festive holiday gift for friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the sour cherries, sugar, and vodka in a glass jug.
- Shake the mixture every once in a while for a week.
- Let it set without stirring until Thanksgiving.
- Drain off the liquid and pour into a wine bottle.
- Eat the cherries.
- Save the juice until Christmas.
- Serve in tiny wine glasses as an after-dinner cordial.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure you use ripe, fresh sour cherries for the best flavor. If sour cherries are unavailable, you can substitute with tart cherries, but adjust the sugar to taste. For a unique twist, consider adding a hint of vanilla or almond extract to the mix. Remember to shake the jug gently to redistribute the sugar without damaging the cherries too much.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cherry herring in tiny wine glasses, making it a delightful after-dinner cordial. It pairs beautifully with rich desserts like chocolate cake or a cheese platter featuring strong cheeses. You can also enjoy it alongside Russian Poppy Seed Cookies for a sweet, complementary treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cherry herring in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to serve. The cherries can be kept in the jar for several months, but the juice should be consumed within a year for the best flavor. If storing the juice separately, keep it in a sealed bottle in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Herring contains roughly 1315 calories, with 1g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
While fresh sour cherries yield the best flavor, you can use frozen cherries if fresh ones are not available. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before mixing with sugar and vodka. The taste might slightly differ, but it will still be delicious.
How long can I keep the cherry herring before serving?
The cherry herring can be stored for several months, but it's best enjoyed within a year of making it. The flavors will deepen and develop over time, especially if left to set until Thanksgiving, making it a perfect holiday treat.
What’s the best way to enjoy the cherries after making the herring?
After draining the liquid, the cherries can be eaten as a sweet treat on their own or used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt. They can also be incorporated into baked goods or served alongside cheese for a unique appetizer.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).