The Best Cherry Pie Cocktail Recipe
The Cherry Pie Cocktail is the perfect combo of dessert and drink! Featuring a bit of bourbon, amaretto, and fresh cherries, this cocktail is a sippable treat for any occasion.
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I’ve got the ultimate treat for any 4th of July gathering – the Cherry Pie Cocktail! This drink blends the rich flavors of bourbon and amaretto with the sweet-tart burst of fresh cherries. The hint of vanilla and a whimsical pie crust star garnish makes this cocktail a fun nod to the all American classic cherry pie.
Bourbon is a robust and warm base, while amaretto adds a nutty sweetness that complements the cherries perfectly. Fresh cherries are best for that authentic pie flavor, but if you can’t find them, you can sub with high-quality cherry preserves or even frozen cherries. Lemon juice adds a bright note that balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the cherries and bourbon. A dash of vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract gives the cocktail its characteristic favorite pie aroma. The Cherry Pie Cocktail comes together quickly and is totally Insta-worthy!
Crafting the Cherry Pie Cocktail is a breeze, making it perfect for any occasion! Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees F. Roll out the pie crust dough on a cutting board and use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut the dough into stars. Place the stars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 6 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Allow the pie crust stars to cool on a wire rack.
Next, in a cocktail shaker, muddle the pitted cherries with honey syrup until the cherries are broken down. Add the bourbon, amaretto, lemon juice, and a dash of vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled.
Strain the cocktail mixture into a chilled cocktail glass (you can check out my favorite glasses here). If you prefer a bit of effervescence, top with club soda. Garnish with one of the pie crust stars for the perfect finishing touch before enjoying immediately!
What is amaretto?
Amaretto is a sweet Italian liqueur known for its almond flavor, often made from almonds or apricot pits. It adds a nutty sweetness to cocktails like the Cherry Pie Cocktail.
What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey?
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that must be made primarily from corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels. Whiskey, on the other hand, is a broad category of distilled spirits made from fermented grain mash and aged in barrels.
Can I substitute fresh cherries with cherry preserves or frozen cherries?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cherries with high-quality cherry preserves or thawed frozen cherries. Adjust the sweetness to taste when using preserves.
How do I make honey syrup for the Cherry Pie Cocktail?
To make honey syrup, mix equal parts of honey and hot water until the honey is fully dissolved. Let it cool before using in your cocktail.
Can I make the pie crust stars ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the pie crust stars ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to use them as garnish.
Can I use cherry juice instead of fresh cherries in the Cherry Pie Cocktail?
Yes, you can use cherry juice as a substitute for fresh cherries. Use unsweetened cherry juice to maintain control over the cocktail’s sweetness, and adjust the amount of honey syrup accordingly.
If you make this recipe, make sure to tag me on Instagram! And let me know what you think in a comment below!And if you’re interested in taking scroll-stopping photos and videos of your food and drinks, make sure you’re following @foodphotographymentor on Insta and check out our food photography equipment here.