Choke Cherry Liquor
A rich and fruity choke cherry liqueur with bold cherry flavors, perfect for sipping or as a unique addition to cocktails, suited for fruit liqueur enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a heavy syrup by cooking 2 cups water and 2 cups sugar together.
- Add ripe choke cherries and 1 quart of brandy to the syrup mixture in a gallon jar.
- Set the jar out into the sun and burp it every day for 3 to 4 weeks.
- Bring the jar in at night and set it out each day.
- After the infusion period, strain the mixture and put it into bottles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade brandy or a higher quality brandy. If choke cherries are unavailable, you can substitute with sour cherries or even blackberries for a different profile. Make sure to burp the jar daily to prevent pressure buildup. The infusion time can be adjusted based on your taste preference; a longer infusion will yield a more robust flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the choke cherry liquor in small glasses as an after-dinner drink. It pairs beautifully with desserts like dark chocolate or vanilla ice cream. You can also use it as a unique ingredient in cocktails or as a drizzle over fresh fruit or desserts. Consider serving it alongside Homemade 'Windex' for a refreshing twist.
Storage & Reheating
Once bottled, store the choke cherry liquor in a cool, dark place. It can last for several months, if not longer, due to the alcohol content. If you prefer chilled liquor, refrigerate it before serving. There's no need to reheat this beverage; it is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Choke Cherry Liquor contains roughly 113 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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
Can I use frozen choke cherries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen choke cherries can be used in this recipe. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before adding them to the syrup. This may affect the infusion time slightly, so taste periodically to achieve your desired flavor.
How do I know when the liquor is ready to strain?
The liquor should be ready to strain when it has taken on a deep color and the fruit has softened. This typically takes around 3 to 4 weeks, but you can start tasting it after about 3 weeks to see if it meets your flavor preference.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the liquor?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter liquor, you can increase the amount of sugar in the syrup. Conversely, if you'd like it less sweet, reduce the sugar. Just be aware that any adjustments may alter the final flavor, so taste as you go.
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).