Classic Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic, the Cherry Old Fashioned is the cocktail for you. This version of the traditional Old Fashioned incorporates sweet cherries, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate a hint of fruitiness in their drinks. It’s the perfect balance of something sweet and the robust flavors of whiskey, making it a standout among cherry cocktails.
Imagine sitting back with a glass of this Cherry Old Fashioned, where the muddled cherries meld perfectly with the rich notes of bourbon. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, this drink is sure to impress your guests. Pair it with a cherry margarita or sangria for a cherry-themed cocktail night, or sip it alongside refreshing mojitos and mocktails.
Overview of the Cherry Old Fashioned
The Cherry Old Fashioned offers a delightful twist on the traditional Old Fashioned, seamlessly incorporating sweet cherries into the mix. This cocktail beautifully balances rich bourbon flavors with a touch of fruitiness, appealing to those who enjoy cherry cocktails.
Picture yourself savoring this cocktail, where the muddled sweet cherries blend harmoniously with the whiskey’s deep notes. It’s an inviting drink, whether you’re winding down after a long day or entertaining friends at a gathering.
Ingredients That Shine
At the heart of the Cherry Old Fashioned are its delightful ingredients. The primary components include bourbon or rye whiskey, which provides a robust base, and fresh sweet cherries that infuse the drink with their natural sweetness.
To enhance the flavor further, a dash of Angostura bitters adds complexity, while a splash of simple syrup or cherry syrup brings out the cherry essence. This combination creates a well-rounded cocktail that is both smooth and refreshingly intricate.
Crafting Your Cocktail
Creating the Cherry Old Fashioned is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Start by muddling the halved cherries with simple syrup to release their juices, which forms the foundation of this vibrant drink.
Next, pour in the whiskey and bitters, followed by ice cubes to chill the mixture. Stirring it well ensures that the flavors combine beautifully, culminating in a cocktail that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to drink.
Garnishing for Appeal
An essential aspect of any cocktail is its presentation. The Cherry Old Fashioned shines when garnished with an expressive orange peel, which complements the drink’s flavors with its citrus oils. A few fresh cherries perched atop the drink enhance its visual appeal, making it not just a treat for the palate but also for the eyes.
This thoughtful garnish elevates the Cherry Old Fashioned, inviting your guests to indulge in a delightful experience that combines both taste and aesthetics.
Pairing Suggestions
The Cherry Old Fashioned can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of other drinks. For a themed cocktail night, consider serving it alongside a cherry margarita or a refreshing sangria. The fruity notes in these beverages complement the Cherry Old Fashioned’s flavors perfectly.
If you’re hosting a gathering with a mixed drink menu, adding mojitos and mocktails alongside can provide a refreshing contrast, catering to various palates while maintaining the cherry theme.
Final Thoughts on Enjoying Cherry Cocktails
Whether you’re a fan of cherry cocktails or simply looking to try something new, the Cherry Old Fashioned is a delightful option. Its combination of sweet cherries and rich whiskey creates a balanced cocktail that’s suitable for various occasions.
Take the time to enjoy the process of crafting this drink, from muddling the cherries to garnishing with a vibrant orange peel. As you share it with friends or savor it during a quiet evening at home, this cocktail is sure to make a memorable impression.
Delightful Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail

This Cherry Old Fashioned blends the classic flavors of the original with the vibrant sweetness of fresh cherries. The result is a cocktail that is smooth, slightly sweet, and refreshingly complex, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1/2 oz simple syrup or cherry syrup
- 2-3 fresh sweet cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Muddle the Cherries: In a mixing glass, add the halved sweet cherries and simple syrup. Gently muddle them together to release the cherry juices.
- Add Ingredients: Pour in the bourbon and add the Angostura bitters to the mixing glass.
- Stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes and stir well for about 30 seconds until chilled.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish: Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and drop it in as a garnish. Optionally, add a cherry on top.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g