Cherry Swim
Cherry Swim is a vibrant, cherry-infused whiskey liqueur with rich fruit and sweet flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or as a flavorful gift for friends.
Ingredients
- 1 gal. ripe cherries
- 4 c. sugar ⓘ
- 1 3/4 gal. whiskey or bourbon
Instructions
- Pick good ripe cherries.
- Clean and crush seeds and all.
- Mix cherries with sugar.
- Put the mixture into a large jar.
- Add whiskey or bourbon to the jar.
- Seal the jar and set aside.
- Shake once daily for 4 weeks.
- When cherries sink, it's ready to use or let set for a month.
- Strain the liquid into a bottle.
- Enjoy or let age further for better flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, ripe cherries and consider removing the pits for a smoother texture. If you prefer a lighter flavor, you can substitute half of the whiskey or bourbon with brandy. Ensure your jar is clean and sterilized to prevent spoilage. If you're looking for a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cherry Swim chilled or over ice as a delightful aperitif. It pairs beautifully with desserts like Chocolate Covered Cookies or can be enjoyed alongside savory dishes such as Creamy Summer Slaw. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh cherries or a sprig of mint. This versatile drink also makes a fantastic addition to cocktails.
Storage & Reheating
Store your Cherry Swim in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor development. Once strained, transfer the liquid to a sealed bottle and keep it in the refrigerator. It can last for several months if stored properly. For best results, consume it within a year to enjoy the freshest taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Swim contains roughly 226 calories, with 5g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
How long can I let the cherries sit before straining?
It's best to let the cherries infuse for at least 4 weeks, shaking daily. However, you can let them sit for up to 2 months for a richer flavor. Just be sure to check that the cherries have sunk, which indicates that the infusion is complete.
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used, but they may not yield the same intensity of flavor as fresh ones. If using frozen, allow them to thaw and drain excess liquid before mixing with sugar. This can also shorten the infusion time slightly.
What can I do with the leftover cherries after straining?
The leftover cherries can be used in various ways! They make a great addition to desserts or can be blended into smoothies. You can also incorporate them into a jam or even use them as a topping for ice cream or pancakes.
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).