How to Make Brandied Cherries

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Breaking out your very own homemade brandied cherries will put your next cocktail soiree over the top. Anyone can make a cocktail, but adding a hand crafted garnish will cement your fame as The Worlds Best Hostess. Your guests will never even know how easy it was and you don't even have to tell them. Pour yourself a cocktail, you've earned it.

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Image Credit: Jackie Dodd

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Things You'll Need

  • 1 pound dark sweet cherries, stemmed and pitted

  • 1/2 cup water

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 cinnamon stick

  • 1 cup brandy

Image Credit: Jackie Dodd

Tip

Make it your own: Add a vanilla bean, or some cloves, maybe some star anise, whatever you want! Not a fan of brandy? Try rum instead.

Step 1: Make the Syrup

Add the sugar, water and cinnamon to a pot over medium high heat. Heat until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.

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Image Credit: Jackie Dodd

Step 2: Add the Brandy

Stir in the brandy.

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Image Credit: Jackie Dodd

Step 3: Place Cherries in a Jar

Rinse the cherries and add to a jar or storage container with a lid that can close tightly.

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Image Credit: Jackie Dodd

Step 4: Add the Liquid

Pour the brandy liquid over the cherries until well submerged. Cool to room temperature. Add the lid and seal tightly. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before adding to your favorite cocktail.

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Image Credit: Jackie Dodd
Image Credit: Jackie Dodd

Tip

Fresh or frozen? Fresh cherries will give you the best flavor and texture, but you can also use good quality frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and rinse prior to using.

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