Cherry Vodka Sour Recipe

Vodka: The base spirit for this cocktail, providing a smooth and neutral flavor.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tart element to balance the sweetness.

Simple syrup: A sweetener made from equal parts sugar and water, used to enhance the flavors.

Cherry juice: Provides a rich, fruity flavor and vibrant color.

Maraschino cherry: Used as a garnish, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

When making this cherry vodka sour, ensure that you use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled lemon juice. Fresh juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cocktail. Additionally, when shaking the ingredients in the cocktail shaker, make sure to shake vigorously for at least 15 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also helps to properly mix the vodka, simple syrup, and cherry juice, resulting in a well-balanced and refreshing beverage.

• vodka - Substitute with gluten-free vodka: Regular vodka is typically gluten-free, but to ensure no cross-contamination, use a certified gluten-free brand.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar tartness and acidity, making it a suitable alternative.

• simple syrup - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup is naturally gluten-free and offers a similar sweetness without altering the flavor profile significantly.

• cherry juice - Substitute with pomegranate juice: Pomegranate juice has a similar tartness and deep red color, making it a good alternative.

• maraschino cherry - Substitute with fresh cherry: Fresh cherries are naturally gluten-free and provide a more natural flavor and texture for garnish.

• To keep your cherry vodka sour fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain its vibrant flavors for up to 2 days.

• If you want to prepare the cocktail in advance, mix the vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cherry juice together, then refrigerate. Add ice and garnish with a maraschino cherry just before serving.

• For longer storage, freeze the mixture in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, simply blend the cubes with a bit of fresh lemon juice and vodka for a slushy version of the cherry vodka sour.

• If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with an equal amount of sparkling water or club soda. Store and freeze using the same methods.

• Always label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness. This ensures you enjoy your cocktail at its best quality.

• Pour the Cherry Vodka Sour into a heat-safe container.
• Place the container in a bowl of warm water to gently bring it to room temperature. Avoid using hot water to prevent altering the flavors.
• Alternatively, let the cocktail sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to naturally warm up.
• If you prefer a chilled drink, simply add fresh ice cubes to the glass before serving.
• Give the cocktail a gentle stir to mix the ingredients evenly before enjoying.

• Cocktail shaker: Used to mix and chill the ingredients thoroughly.

• Ice: Essential for chilling the drink and ensuring it is served cold.

• Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure precise amounts of vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cherry juice.

• Strainer: Used to strain the mixed drink into the glass, keeping the ice in the shaker.

• Glass: The vessel in which the final drink is served, typically a rocks glass or an old-fashioned glass.

• Bar spoon: Useful for stirring the drink if needed and for placing the maraschino cherry garnish.

• Knife: Used to cut the lemon for freshly squeezed lemon juice.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the lemon.

Pre-make simple syrup: Prepare a batch of simple syrup in advance and store it in the fridge. This saves time when mixing drinks.

Use bottled lemon juice: If you're in a rush, use high-quality bottled lemon juice instead of squeezing fresh lemons.

Chill ingredients: Keep your vodka and cherry juice in the fridge so they are already cold, reducing the need for extensive shaking.

Batch cocktails: Mix larger quantities of the cocktail ingredients in a pitcher and store in the fridge. Pour over ice when ready to serve.