How to prepare sour cherry liqueur

Cherry Liqueur of Dreams – A Delicious Recipe for Special Moments

When it comes to soulful dishes, cherry liqueur is undoubtedly a classic that adds a touch of magic to every glass. This aromatic spirit, with an intense cherry flavor, is perfect for enjoying with friends or as a gift for loved ones. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step in making a delicious cherry liqueur, inspired by old traditions but with a modern touch.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Maceration time: 2-3 months
Number of servings: 20-25

Essential ingredients:

- 5000 grams of fresh cherries (about 5 kg)
- 2500 grams of sugar (2.5 kg)
- 1000 ml of refined alcohol
- 1000 ml of vodka
- 500 ml of rum
- 1000 ml of cherry syrup
- 1 vanilla bean

A bit of history

Cherry liqueur is a spirit that has been made for generations, with deep roots in culinary tradition. This drink is more than just a simple combination of cherries and alcohol – it is a true art of preserving the taste of summer, bringing it to the heart of winter. Its popularity has grown over time, making it a symbol of conviviality and celebrations.

Step by step to the perfect cherry liqueur

1. Choose the cherries: Select fresh, ripe but firm cherries. Avoid damaged or spoiled fruits, as they can affect the final quality of the liqueur. Wash the cherries under a stream of cold water to clean them of impurities.

2. Preparing the demijohn: Ensure that the demijohn is clean and sterilized. This is essential to prevent contamination of the liqueur. You can wash it well with hot water and let it dry completely.

3. Adding the ingredients: Place the cherries in the demijohn, then add the sugar, refined alcohol, vodka, rum, cherry syrup, and the vanilla bean split lengthwise to release the flavors. These ingredients combine perfectly, creating an aromatic and rich mixture.

4. Maceration: Close the demijohn and shake it gently. Here comes an important step: for the next 10 days, shake the demijohn daily to help the sugar dissolve completely. This action will enhance the flavor and contribute to a smoother liqueur.

5. Waiting: After the 10 days, let the demijohn sit in a dark, cool place for 2-3 months. This maceration period will allow the cherries to release their juices and aroma, giving the liquid a vibrant color and intense flavor.

6. Bottling: After the maceration period, the cherry liqueur is ready to be filtered and bottled. Use a fine sieve to separate the cherries from the liquid. The resulting liquid can be poured into sterilized bottles. Do not throw away the remaining cherries! They can be used to flavor cakes or pastries.

7. Serving: Cherry liqueur is served cold, in small glasses, as an aperitif or digestif. It pairs wonderfully with cheeses or chocolate desserts.

Practical tips for a perfect result:

- Choose quality ingredients: The quality of the cherries and alcohol significantly influences the final taste. Opt for local and fresh products.
- Temperature: The liqueur will taste better if kept at a constant temperature, away from direct sunlight.
- Experiment with flavors: You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves to give a special note to the liqueur.
- Preserving the cherries: If you do not want to use the leftover cherries in pastries, you can freeze them for later use.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long does it take to make cherry liqueur?
- The active preparation time is about 30 minutes, but the liqueur needs to macerate for 2-3 months to reach the desired flavor.

2. Can I use other fruits?
- Sure! This recipe can be adapted using other fruits like cherries or peaches, modifying the proportions of sugar and alcohol to taste.

3. How much alcohol does cherry liqueur have?
- The alcohol content will depend on the type of alcohol used and their proportions. Generally, cherry liqueur has a moderate alcohol content, being a special but not very strong drink.

4. How can I store cherry liqueur?
- After bottling, keep the cherry liqueur in a cool, dark place. If stored correctly, it can be consumed even after a few years.

Delicious combinations:

Cherry liqueur pairs perfectly with various dishes, from goat cheese to chocolate cakes or vanilla mousse. You can also add it to cocktails for an extra flavor boost, or use it as a secret ingredient in meat sauces.

A personal note: Every time I make cherry liqueur, I remember the summer vacations spent at my grandparents' house, where the aroma of fresh cherries filled my heart with joy. It is a recipe that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a dose of nostalgia to every glass.

So, don't hesitate! Gather the ingredients, follow the steps in this cherry liqueur recipe, and get ready to enjoy a spirit that will surely become a favorite in your home!