Irresistible Spiked Cherries: Your Ultimate Guide to Boozy, Chocolate-Dipped Delights
Forget plain cocktail garnishes! These delightful spiked cherries offer the best of both worlds – a luscious dessert and a spirited cocktail, all in one tantalizing bite. Perfect for parties, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a touch of boozy sweetness, these alcohol-infused treats are surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Why This Recipe Is a Party Game-Changer
Deciding if these infused cherries are a cocktail or a dessert is part of the fun! What’s undeniable is their ability to elevate any gathering. They’re not just a conversation starter; they’re a palate pleaser that combines fruity tang, alcoholic kick, and sweet chocolate indulgence. The best part? Their preparation is incredibly straightforward, though a little foresight is key. For the best flavor infusion, you’ll want to get your cherries soaking in the alcohol at least 24 hours before you plan to serve them.
You might have heard them referred to as boozy cherries, drunken cherries, or even alcohol-soaked cherries. Regardless of the name, these delightful little bombs of flavor offer a fantastic twist on traditional cocktails or shots. Their immense versatility is what truly sets them apart. You can customize them with virtually any type of alcohol that complements a cherry, making them adaptable to different tastes and occasions. Beyond being a standalone treat, they also make a spectacular garnish for cocktails. Imagine these vanilla vodka-infused cherries perched atop a pineapple upside down cake shot – a true sensory experience!
Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party, a casual get-together, or a festive holiday celebration, these spiked cherries will undoubtedly be a memorable highlight. Their vibrant color, decadent chocolate coating, and unexpected boozy kick make them a treat that’s both elegant and playful, ensuring your guests leave with a smile.
Essential Ingredients for Your Boozy Cherries
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delectable treats. You’ll find a detailed list of all measurements and specific instructions in the printable recipe version at the very end of this post. However, for a quick overview, here’s what you’ll need to get started on your spiked cherry adventure:
Ingredient Spotlight: Tips for Perfect Pairings
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here’s a deeper dive into your ingredient choices and how they can transform your spiked cherries:
ALCOHOL Selection – Crafting Your Unique Flavor Profile: While Fireball (cinnamon whiskey) adds a delightful spicy warmth, the possibilities are truly endless! Consider these exciting options:
- Vanilla Vodka: As demonstrated in our video, vanilla vodka offers a smooth, sweet, and aromatic infusion that pairs wonderfully with cherry. It’s a fantastic choice for a dessert-like experience.
- Plain Vodka: For a clean, potent kick that truly lets the cherry flavor shine, unflavored vodka is a classic choice. It’s a blank canvas for the cherry’s natural sweetness.
- Rum: Both light and dark rum can work magic. Light rum provides a sweeter, subtler undertone, while dark rum introduces richer, caramel-like notes, perfect for a more sophisticated bite.
- Brandy: A sophisticated choice, brandy adds a fruity, often slightly oaky depth that beautifully complements the cherry. It creates a more grown-up, elegant spiked cherry.
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: For a lighter, effervescent touch, soaking cherries in champagne results in a fun, celebratory treat with a delicate fizz.
- Bourbon or Whiskey: Similar to Fireball, these spirits impart a warm, robust, and often smoky or caramel flavor that marries well with the fruit. They’re excellent for a richer, more intense cherry.
- Gin: For the adventurous palate, gin’s botanical notes can add an intriguing herbal complexity to the sweet cherry.
- Cherry Liqueurs: If you want to double down on cherry flavor and add extra sweetness, a cherry liqueur like Cherry Heering or kirsch can be a superb choice.
Important Note: I highly recommend avoiding creamy liqueurs such as Bailey’s or Kahlua. Their texture might lead to an undesirable coating, and there’s a risk they could spoil if left to soak for more than a day, potentially compromising the cherries’ vibrant color and freshness.
CHERRIES – Maraschino Magic: This recipe specifically calls for maraschino cherries, and for good reason. Their bright color, sweet-tart flavor, and consistent texture are ideal for soaking. They also come pre-pitted, making preparation a breeze. While fresh cherries *can* be used, they require pitting and can sometimes become a bit soggy after soaking, and their flavor profile is different. For ease and classic “spiked cherry” results, maraschino cherries are your best bet. Look for jars with stems if you prefer, as they make dipping much easier.
CHOCOLATE Coating – A Canvas for Creativity: The type of chocolate you choose can significantly impact the final taste and appearance. All forms work beautifully:
- White Chocolate: Offers a sweet, creamy contrast to the cherry’s tartness and vibrant color. Great for bright, festive themes.
- Dark Chocolate: For a more sophisticated and less sweet profile, dark chocolate provides a rich, slightly bitter counterpoint that true chocolate lovers adore.
- Milk Chocolate: A universally loved option, milk chocolate provides a classic sweet and creamy coating that appeals to most palates.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate: A versatile choice that balances sweetness with a hint of bitterness, perfect for a balanced flavor.
- Forms: You can use standard chocolate chips, baking chocolate bars (chopped), or specialized chocolate wafers (candy melts) which are designed for easy melting and a smooth finish. Almond bark is another excellent option for its ease of use and smooth consistency.
SPRINKLES – The Finishing Touch: Sprinkles aren’t just for decoration; they add a delightful texture and visual appeal. From classic rainbow sprinkles for a playful look to themed colors for holidays (red and green for Christmas, red, white, and blue for the 4th of July, pastels for Easter), choose sprinkles that match your desired aesthetic. Nonpareils, jimmies, or even coarse sanding sugar can all work beautifully.
Crafting Your Spiked Cherry Delights: Step-by-Step
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are designed to help you visualize each stage of making this delicious recipe. For a convenient printable version with exact measurements and instructions, simply jump to the recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Prepare the Cherries for Soaking: Begin by carefully pouring out the juice from your jar of maraschino cherries. You can save this flavorful cherry juice to use as grenadine in other cocktail recipes or even in a non-alcoholic Shirley Temple. Ensure the cherries remain in their original jar or transfer them to another airtight container.
- Infuse with Alcohol: Fill the cherry jar with your chosen alcohol. Make sure the cherries are fully submerged. Secure the lid tightly and place the jar in the refrigerator. Allow the cherries to soak for a minimum of 6-8 hours, or ideally, overnight. The longer they soak, the more intensely flavored and potent they will become.
- Dry the Cherries: Once infused, remove the cherries from the alcohol. Place them on several layers of paper towels on a plate or baking sheet. Allow them to air dry while you prepare the chocolate and sprinkles. It’s crucial that the cherries are as dry as possible to ensure the chocolate adheres properly.
- Prepare Your Dipping Station: Line a cookie sheet or large plate with parchment paper. This will prevent the chocolate-dipped cherries from sticking as they dry. Set this aside within easy reach. Pour your chosen sprinkles into a shallow, wide bowl, also within easy reach.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place your chosen chocolate (chips, wafers, or chopped baking chocolate) in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt it in short bursts, typically 20-25 seconds at a time, stirring well after each interval. Continue until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause it to seize. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler for a more controlled melting process.
- Ensure Dryness (Re-check): Before dipping, gently pat any cherries that still appear wet with a clean paper towel. Excess moisture is the enemy of smooth chocolate coating!
- Dip and Decorate: Holding a cherry by its stem (or using a toothpick if no stem is present), dip it into the melted candy coating. Swirl gently to ensure an even coat, allowing any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Immediately after, dip the chocolate-covered cherry halfway into your bowl of sprinkles, rotating to cover as desired.
- Allow to Set: Place each dipped cherry onto the prepared parchment-lined cookie sheet. Let them sit at room temperature until the chocolate has completely dried and set. For faster setting, you can briefly place the cookie sheet in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Spiked Cherries
For optimal flavor and potency, allow your cherries to soak for a minimum of 6-8 hours or, even better, overnight in the refrigerator. This extended soaking time ensures the cherries absorb as much of the alcohol as possible, delivering that delightful boozy kick. Keep in mind that the longer they soak, the stronger the alcoholic taste will be. I haven’t tested soaking them for longer than 4 days, but generally, alcohol acts as a preservative, so they should remain safe for longer periods. However, after about 4-5 days, the cherries will have reached their saturation point and won’t absorb much more alcohol.
Once covered in chocolate, store your spiked cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. While they can be enjoyed at room temperature, and it’s fine for them to sit out for a few hours during a party, refrigerating them is best if you’ve prepped them in advance or have leftovers. This helps maintain the chocolate’s texture and prevents it from sweating or becoming too soft.
Absolutely! You can soak the cherries in alcohol several days (up to 4) in advance. However, I highly recommend coating them in chocolate and sprinkles either on the day of your event or the night before. This timing minimizes the chance of the chocolate sweating or developing condensation in the refrigerator, ensuring a pristine appearance and texture.
The key to perfectly coated cherries is ensuring they are completely dry before dipping. Any residual moisture on the cherry’s surface will act as a barrier, causing the chocolate to slide right off. After removing the cherries from their alcohol bath, place them on a paper towel-lined plate or baking sheet. Gently pat them dry with another paper towel and let them air dry for a few minutes while you prepare your other ingredients. This simple step will prevent any issues with the chocolate adhering.
These cherries can be quite potent, especially if soaked for an extended period in pure alcohol. If you prefer a milder taste or a less alcoholic kick, there’s an easy adjustment: instead of filling the cherry jar entirely with alcohol, use a 50/50 mix of your chosen alcohol and the original maraschino cherry juice. This dilutes the strength while still providing a delightful boozy flavor.
While maraschino cherries are recommended for their convenience and vibrant color, you can experiment with fresh cherries. If using fresh cherries, make sure to pit them thoroughly first. Keep in mind that fresh cherries might become a bit softer after soaking and may absorb the alcohol differently. The soaking time might also need to be adjusted; start with overnight and test for desired strength.
Beyond sprinkles, you can get creative with your garnishes! Consider finely chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) for a textural crunch, shredded coconut for a tropical twist, or even edible glitter for extra sparkle during the holidays. A drizzle of contrasting chocolate (e.g., dark chocolate over white-dipped cherries) can also add a beautiful touch.
When melting chocolate in the microwave, use medium power and stir frequently (every 15-25 seconds). Chocolate can hold its shape even when melted, so stirring is crucial to prevent overheating. If using a double boiler, ensure the bottom of your chocolate bowl doesn’t touch the simmering water, and stir continuously until smooth. Avoid any contact with water, as even a tiny drop can cause chocolate to seize and become clumpy.
Creative Serving Suggestions for Your Boozy Treats
Spiked cherries are incredibly versatile and perfect for any festive gathering, from casual parties to elegant holiday celebrations. Their adaptability lies in the ease with which you can customize their appearance to match almost any theme. For instance, for a patriotic 4th of July party, dip the cherries in white chocolate and decorate them with red, white, and blue sprinkles. For Christmas, use red and green sprinkles, or even drizzle with contrasting white chocolate to evoke a winter wonderland. Valentine’s Day? Pink or red sprinkles and a heart-shaped candy melt would be adorable!
Beyond being a standalone treat, these boozy cherries can enhance various culinary presentations. Skewer a few onto a decorative cocktail pick for an elegant presentation. Serve them in mini cupcake liners for easy grabbing. They also make a fantastic garnish for milkshakes, ice cream sundaes, or even as an unexpected topping for a chocolate cake.
Don’t let the leftover cherry juice go to waste! The original maraschino cherry juice that you initially poured out can be used as a vibrant grenadine substitute in many cocktail recipes, adding a lovely sweetness and color. Furthermore, the alcohol-infused cherry juice left over from soaking can be a potent and flavorful addition to other cocktails. Imagine adding a splash of vanilla vodka-infused cherry juice to a rum and coke, or a bit of Fireball-infused juice to a whiskey sour. It adds an extra layer of complexity and a unique cherry flavor that’s hard to replicate.
Explore More Delicious Cocktail and Shot Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed these spiked cherries, you’re in for a treat! Discover more exciting drink and dessert creations that are perfect for entertaining or simply unwinding:
- Blue Lagoon Cocktail
- Oreo Thin Mint Shooters
- Blue Hawaiian Mai Tai
- Watermelon Malibu Slush
- Butterscotch Milkshake Cocktail
- Ice Cream Cone Rum Chata Shots
- Pineapple Upside Down Cake Shot
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Spiked Cherries
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 10 oz maraschino cherries
- 4 oz fireball whisky OR alcohol of choice (vanilla vodka, rum, brandy, etc.)
- 1 cup white candy coating (or dark/milk chocolate)
- ¼ cup sprinkles of choice
Before You Begin & Expert Tips
- Stems are Helpful: I sometimes purchase two jars of maraschino cherries instead of one 10 oz jar to ensure I have enough cherries with stems. While stems make dipping easier, if some cherries lose their stems, a toothpick can be used effectively for dipping.
- Adjusting Strength: For a milder taste, fill the cherry jar with half alcohol and half maraschino cherry juice instead of solely alcohol. This allows for a more subtle boozy flavor that suits various preferences.
- Optimal Soaking Time: Allow your cherries to soak for a minimum of 6-8 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This ensures maximum alcohol absorption, leading to a truly infused flavor. The longer they soak (up to 4 days), the stronger they will be, as alcohol also acts as a preservative.
- Storage Guidelines: Store chocolate-covered spiked cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. They can be enjoyed at room temperature for a few hours, but for longer freshness and to prevent the chocolate from sweating, refrigeration is best, especially if prepared in advance.
- Timing the Coating: While you can soak the cherries well in advance, it’s recommended to coat them in chocolate and sprinkles either on the day of your event or the night before. This practice helps prevent the chocolate from developing condensation or a “sweaty” appearance in the fridge.
- Ensuring Chocolate Adhesion: It is critically important that your cherries are thoroughly dry before you dip them in chocolate. Any excess moisture will cause the chocolate to repel or slip off. After removing cherries from the jar, place them on a paper towel-lined plate or baking sheet and gently pat them dry. Let them sit and air dry for a few minutes while you prep your other ingredients to avoid any sticking issues.
- Melting Chocolate Effectively: When melting chocolate in the microwave, use short 20-25 second bursts, stirring well after each. Chocolate holds its shape even when melted, so constant stirring prevents scorching. Alternatively, a double boiler offers a gentle, controlled melting process.
Instructions
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Carefully drain the juice from the jar of maraschino cherries. You can save this cherry juice to use as grenadine or in other drinks. Keep the cherries in the jar.
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Fill the cherry jar completely with your preferred alcohol. Ensure all cherries are submerged. Seal the jar and refrigerate for a minimum of 6-8 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the cherries to fully infuse.
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Once infused, remove the cherries from the alcohol. Place them on paper towels to air dry while you prepare your chocolate and sprinkles. Pat gently with additional paper towels if they appear excessively wet.
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Line a baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface for the dipped cherries. Set this aside.
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Melt your chosen chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-25 second increments, stirring thoroughly after each, until the chocolate is completely smooth and free of lumps. Pour your sprinkles into a shallow, wide bowl.
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If any cherries still feel damp, gently pat them dry with a fresh paper towel before proceeding to ensure the chocolate adheres perfectly.
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Holding a cherry by its stem (or using a toothpick), dip it into the melted candy coating, swirling to coat evenly. Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then immediately dip the bottom half of the chocolate-covered cherry into the sprinkles.
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Place each dipped cherry onto the parchment-lined cookie sheet. Allow the chocolate coating to fully dry and set at room temperature, or briefly refrigerate for quicker setting.
Nutrition Information
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This post originally appeared here on Nov 17, 2018 and has since been updated with new photos and expert tips.