As someone who gets excited about food and drinks, I often find joy in pairing great dishes with unique beverages. Picture this: It’s a warm summer evening, and the sun is setting. I’m serving up a delightful cherry-glazed grilled chicken alongside a shimmering Vanilla Bourbon Cherry Smash.
The tangy sweetness of the cherries complements the smoky, savory notes of the chicken, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. There’s something about the perfect pairing that elevates every gathering.
What is Vanilla Bourbon Cherry Smash?
The Vanilla Bourbon Cherry Smash is a delightful twist on the classic cherry smash cocktails we often see. This drink marries the vibrant flavors of fresh cherries, the warm embrace of bourbon, and the soothing essence of vanilla.
It’s refreshing, satisfying, and invites you to take another sip, all while hinting at playful complexity through a splash of soda and perhaps a hint of bitters.
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The Ingredients
Let’s gather the essentials for this delightful concoction.
- ½ cup fresh, pitted cherries (you can substitute with frozen if needed. Just ensure they are sweet).
- 3 teaspoons superfine cane sugar (this dissolves easily without the need for vigorous shaking).
- 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (for that zing you didn’t know you needed).
- ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (the secret ingredient that ties everything together).
- 1.5 oz bourbon (feel free to choose your favorite brand; the flavor makes all the difference).
- Ice cubes (to keep your drink refreshingly cool).
- ¼ cup sparkling soda water (or more—who doesn’t love a fizzy twist?).
- 1 dash of Angostura bitters (optional, but it adds depth and intrigue).
- 1 small sprig of fresh mint (for garnish and a refreshing touch).
How to Make Vanilla Bourbon Cherry Smash?
Before we jump into the detailed steps, let me give you a brief overview of how this cocktail comes together. First, you’ll muddle those beautiful cherries with sugar and lemon juice. Then, the bourbon joins the party, followed by ice and soda. It’s a straightforward process that packs a mighty flavor punch. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Grab your cherries, bourbon, sugar, lemon, and any other ingredients you plan to use. This makes the process smoother. Measure everything out and have it at your fingertips.
Step 2: Muddle the Cherries
In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, place the fresh, pitted cherries along with the superfine cane sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Using a muddler, a fork, or even the back of a spoon, press down on the cherries. You’re aiming to release their juices without pulverizing them completely. This creates a sweet and tangy base.
Step 3: Add the Vanilla and Bourbon
Pour in ¼ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. This will add a pleasing aroma and flavor profile. Next, you’ll want to add the bourbon. Use a shot glass to measure out 1.5 oz and pour it directly into your muddled cherry mixture. Give it a gentle stir to combine these flavors.
Step 4: Ice, Ice Baby
Add fresh ice cubes to your glass. Fill it generously, making sure the ice is above the mixture. It keeps the drink chilled and refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Step 5: Top with Sparkling Soda
Pour ¼ cup (or more, depending on how fizzy you like it) of sparkling soda water over the ice. This is where the drink gets its effervescence. Stir gently to combine, ensuring you maintain the bubbles.
Step 6: Finish with Bitters and Garnish
If you’re in the mood for a little complexity, add a dash of Angostura bitters on the top. Lastly, garnish with a small sprig of fresh mint. This not only looks stunning but also adds a refreshing aroma every time you take a sip.
Notes
Here are some tips to keep in mind while preparing this delightful beverage:
- Choose Fresh Cherries: Ensure they are ripe for the best flavor. Fresh cherries can make a world of difference.
- Use Superfine Sugar: It dissolves better than regular sugar, making your drink smoother.
- Experiment with Bourbon: Different brands possess unique flavors. Find one that suits your taste buds.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, feel free to reduce the sugar.
- Chill Your Glass: For an extra touch of class, chill your serving glass beforehand.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with extra Vanilla Bourbon Cherry Smash (which I doubt, but just in case), store it in the refrigerator for no more than a few hours. The fresh cherries can start to break down, altering the drink’s flavor. Always mix it fresh for the best experience!
Nutrition Information
Enjoying a cocktail is great, but being mindful of nutrition adds a layer of awareness. Here’s a rough nutritional overview per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 150 calories
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sugars: 14g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Please modify your intake based on the bourbon brand and any additional ingredients you may use.
Serving Suggestions
Try these pairings with your Vanilla Bourbon Cherry Smash to elevate your drinking experience:
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken complement the sweetness of the drink.
- Spicy Shrimp Tacos: The refreshing cherry flavor balances the heat of spicy shrimp.
- Salty Cheese Platter: Feta or goat cheese enhances the sweetness perfectly.
- Chocolate Desserts: Cherry and chocolate are a classic combination; think brownies or truffles.
- Mixed Nuts: The saltiness contrasts with the sweet drink, making for a perfect snack.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Vanilla Bourbon Cherry Smash?
If you’re looking to mix things up or work with what you have, consider these substitutes:
- Dark Rum: Substituting bourbon with dark rum adds a tropical twist.
- Maple Syrup: For sweetness without refined sugar, maple syrup works well (about 1 tablespoon).
- Club Soda: Use this in place of sparkling soda for a less sweet option.
- Peach Schnapps: For a fruity variation, replace bourbon with peach schnapps.
- Blackberries: Swap cherries for blackberries for a different berry smash.
Vanilla Bourbon Cherry Smash
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grab your cherries, bourbon, sugar, lemon, and any other ingredients you plan to use. This makes the process smoother. Measure everything out and have it at your fingertips.
- In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, place the fresh, pitted cherries along with the superfine cane sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Using a muddler, a fork, or even the back of a spoon, press down on the cherries. You’re aiming to release their juices without pulverizing them completely. This creates a sweet and tangy base.
- Pour in ¼ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. This will add a pleasing aroma and flavor profile. Next, you’ll want to add the bourbon. Use a shot glass to measure out 1.5 oz and pour it directly into your muddled cherry mixture. Give it a gentle stir to combine these flavors.
- Add fresh ice cubes to your glass. Fill it generously, making sure the ice is above the mixture. It keeps the drink chilled and refreshing, especially on a hot day.
- Pour ¼ cup (or more, depending on how fizzy you like it) of sparkling soda water over the ice. This is where the drink gets its effervescence. Stir gently to combine, ensuring you maintain the bubbles.
- If you’re in the mood for a little complexity, add a dash of Angostura bitters on the top. Lastly, garnish with a small sprig of fresh mint. This not only looks stunning but also adds a refreshing aroma every time you take a sip.
Nutrition
Notes
- Choose Fresh Cherries: Ensure they are ripe for the best flavor. Fresh cherries can make a world of difference.
- Use Superfine Sugar: It dissolves better than regular sugar, making your drink smoother.
- Experiment with Bourbon: Different brands possess unique flavors. Find one that suits your taste buds.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, feel free to reduce the sugar.
- Chill Your Glass: For an extra touch of class, chill your serving glass beforehand.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries can be used. Just make sure they’re thawed and pitted before muddling.
2. How can I make this drink non-alcoholic?
Substitute the bourbon with extra sparkling soda or a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative. Smoothies with cherry juice enhanced by vanilla work well too!
3. Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can pre-muddle the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Just add bourbon and soda just before serving.
4. What bourbon do you recommend?
It depends on your taste. For smoothness, try Maker’s Mark. If you’re after something bolder, go for Bulleit Bourbon.
5. Is this drink sweet?
Yes, it has a sweet profile due to the cherries and sugar. Adjust the sweetness according to your preference!
Conclusion
Crafting the Vanilla Bourbon Cherry Smash is not just about mixing ingredients; it’s an experience. Each sip bursts with flavor, transporting you to a peaceful summer evening. The notes of cherry, bourbon, and vanilla dance elegantly, creating a drink that is both refreshing and indulgent.
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this cocktail embodies the spirit of joyful sipping. So grab your ingredients, follow those steps, and toast to the simple pleasures life has to offer! Cheers!
