Vanilla Cherry Cocktail Recipe – Cocktails are all about balancing flavors, and the Vanilla Cherry Cocktail does just that by blending the sweetness of cherries with the warm, aromatic notes of vanilla. This unique drink offers a refreshing twist on classic fruity cocktails, making it an excellent choice for parties, summer evenings, or even holiday celebrations.
Unlike stronger, spirit-forward cocktails such as an Old Fashioned or Negroni, this cocktail is light, approachable, and bursting with fruitiness. Fresh cherries or cherry juice provide natural sweetness, while vanilla adds a smooth, luxurious depth. Whether you prepare it with vodka, rum, or bourbon as the base, it’s a drink that feels indulgent yet refreshing.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Active Time: 5 minutes
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Resting Time: None (serve immediately)
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Total Time: 15 minutes
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Cuisines: American / Modern Fusion
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Course: Beverage / Cocktail
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Servings: 2 cocktails
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Calories: ~190 kcal per serving
Equipment Needed
To make this delicious cocktail, you’ll need:
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Cocktail shaker
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Muddler (for cherries)
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Strainer
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Jigger or measuring cup
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Knife and cutting board
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Ice cubes
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Glasses (martini or lowball)
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 19 g |
| Sugars | 16 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 6 mg |
| Alcohol | ~11 g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the Vanilla Cherry Cocktail:
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3 oz vodka (or rum/bourbon as variation)
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2 oz cherry juice (unsweetened for balance)
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1 oz vanilla syrup (or vanilla extract + simple syrup)
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1 oz fresh lime juice
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1 tbsp fresh cherries, pitted and muddled
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Ice cubes
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Garnish: fresh cherries, lime wheel, or vanilla bean
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make a perfect Vanilla Cherry Cocktail:
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Prepare the Ingredients
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Wash and pit fresh cherries. Slice lime for juicing and garnish.
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Muddle the Cherries
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In a cocktail shaker, add the cherries and lightly muddle them to release their natural juices.
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Add Liquids
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Pour in vodka, cherry juice, lime juice, and vanilla syrup.
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Shake with Ice
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Fill the shaker with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds to combine flavors and chill the drink.
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Strain and Serve
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Strain the mixture into chilled glasses filled with fresh ice.
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Garnish
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Add a cherry or lime slice on top. For an elegant look, you can also place a vanilla bean across the rim.
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Flavor Variations
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Sparkling Vanilla Cherry Cocktail: Top with club soda or sparkling wine for a fizzy version.
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Mocktail Version: Replace vodka with sparkling water and add more cherry juice.
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Bourbon Twist: Swap vodka for bourbon for a deeper, richer taste.
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Chocolate Cherry Delight: Add a splash of chocolate liqueur for a dessert-style cocktail.
Tips for the Best Vanilla Cherry Cocktail
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Use fresh cherries when in season – They add the best flavor compared to store-bought syrup.
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Balance the sweetness – If using sweetened cherry juice, reduce the vanilla syrup.
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Chill glasses before serving – Keeps your cocktail crisp and refreshing.
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Experiment with spirits – Vodka keeps it light, bourbon adds warmth, and rum makes it tropical.
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Batch for parties – Multiply the recipe and serve in a pitcher with cherry slices floating inside.
Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
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It’s easy and quick to prepare.
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The combination of vanilla and cherry creates a unique, layered flavor.
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Versatile – Can be adapted into a mocktail, sparkling version, or dessert drink.
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Perfect for year-round enjoyment – refreshing in summer, cozy in winter.
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Beautiful presentation – the deep red color with cherry garnish is stunning for parties.
Final Thoughts
The Vanilla Cherry Cocktail is a refreshing, fruity, and slightly indulgent drink that’s perfect for any occasion. With its mix of sweet cherries, tangy lime, and smooth vanilla, it strikes the right balance between sophistication and fun. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, a cozy holiday gathering, or a casual evening with friends, this cocktail is guaranteed to impress
