15 Delicious Cocktails Featuring Maraschino Cherries

Maraschino cherries have long been a staple in the world of cocktails, adding a touch of sweetness and a pop of colour to our favourite drinks. From classic concoctions to modern mixology marvels, these glossy red fruits have found their way into a myriad of delicious libations.

In this article, we’ll explore 15 mouthwatering cocktails that showcase the versatility of maraschino cherries, including some recipes featuring the premium Luxardo maraschino cherries. So, grab your cocktail shaker and let’s dive into the world of cherry-topped tipples!

1. The Classic Manhattan: A Maraschino Cherry Showcase

The Manhattan is perhaps the most iconic cocktail featuring a maraschino cherry. This timeless drink has been gracing bar menus for over a century, and for good reason. The combination of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters creates a perfect backdrop for the sweet pop of a maraschino cherry.

To make a classic Manhattan:

• 60ml rye whiskey or bourbon
• 30ml sweet vermouth
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 maraschino cherry (preferably Luxardo maraschino cherries for an extra touch of luxury)

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. Stir well for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the drink. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a maraschino cherry.

The key to elevating your Manhattan is using high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the cherry. Luxardo maraschino cherries, with their rich flavour and firm texture, can transform an ordinary Manhattan into an extraordinary one. These cherries are made from marasca cherries and preserved in maraschino liqueur, resulting in a more complex and less artificial taste compared to standard cocktail cherries.

Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or a cocktail novice, the Manhattan is a perfect introduction to the world of maraschino cherry cocktails. The cherry not only adds a visual appeal but also imparts a subtle sweetness that complements the robust flavours of the whiskey and vermouth. As you sip your Manhattan, take a moment to appreciate how the maraschino cherry ties all the elements together, creating a truly harmonious drinking experience.

2. Singapore Sling: A Tropical Maraschino Marvel

The Singapore Sling is a gin-based cocktail that originated at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore in the early 20th century. This fruity and refreshing drink features a delightful mix of flavours, including the sweet note of maraschino cherries.

Here’s how to make a Singapore Sling:

• 45ml gin
• 15ml cherry liqueur (preferably Cherry Heering)
• 7.5ml Cointreau
• 7.5ml Bénédictine
• 10ml grenadine
• 120ml pineapple juice
• 15ml fresh lime juice
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Maraschino cherry and pineapple slice for garnish

Combine all ingredients except the garnishes in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a pineapple slice.

The Singapore Sling is a perfect example of how maraschino cherries can complement a complex flavour profile. The cherry liqueur and grenadine provide a sweet, fruity base, while the gin and herbal liqueurs add depth and complexity. The maraschino cherry garnish not only adds visual appeal but also reinforces the cherry flavour in the drink.

For an extra touch of luxury, consider using Luxardo maraschino cherries for the garnish. Their rich, complex flavour can elevate the drink even further, providing a gourmet touch to this tropical classic.

The Singapore Sling is more than just a cocktail; it’s a journey through flavours, with the maraschino cherry serving as a sweet, familiar anchor in a sea of exotic tastes. Whether you’re sipping it poolside or dreaming of faraway places, this cocktail is sure to transport you to a tropical paradise with every sip.

3. Cherry Bourbon Smash: A Modern Maraschino Masterpiece

The Cherry Bourbon Smash is a contemporary cocktail that puts maraschino cherries front and centre. This refreshing drink combines the rich flavours of bourbon with the sweetness of cherries for a perfect summer sipper.

Here’s how to craft this delightful cocktail:

• 60ml bourbon
• 15ml maraschino cherry syrup (from the jar of Luxardo maraschino cherries)
• 15ml fresh lemon juice
• 2-3 maraschino cherries (plus extra for garnish)
• 4-5 fresh mint leaves
• Soda water to top

In a shaker, muddle the maraschino cherries and mint leaves. Add the bourbon, cherry syrup, and lemon juice. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice. Top with a splash of soda water and garnish with additional maraschino cherries and a sprig of mint.

The Cherry Bourbon Smash is a perfect example of how maraschino cherries can be used not just as a garnish, but as a key flavour component in a cocktail. The cherry syrup adds sweetness and depth to the drink, while the muddled cherries infuse the cocktail with their rich flavour.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries in this cocktail can take it to the next level. Their intense flavour and firm texture make them perfect for muddling, and their syrup adds a complexity that standard maraschino cherries can’t match.

This cocktail is a celebration of maraschino cherries, showcasing their versatility and ability to pair beautifully with a variety of spirits. The combination of bourbon’s caramel notes, the cherries’ sweetness, and the mint’s freshness creates a balanced and refreshing drink that’s perfect for warm summer evenings or anytime you’re in the mood for a fruity, bourbon-forward cocktail.

4. Dirty Shirley: A Grown-Up Take on a Childhood Favourite

The Dirty Shirley is an adult version of the classic Shirley Temple, a non-alcoholic drink named after the famous child actress. This boozy twist maintains the nostalgic cherry flavour while adding a kick of vodka.

Here’s how to make a Dirty Shirley:

• 45ml vodka
• 15ml grenadine
• 120ml lemon-lime soda
• Maraschino cherry for garnish (preferably Luxardo maraschino cherries)

Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in the vodka and grenadine. Top with lemon-lime soda and stir gently to combine. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

The Dirty Shirley is a perfect example of how maraschino cherries can bridge the gap between childhood nostalgia and adult indulgence. The grenadine provides the classic cherry flavour associated with the original Shirley Temple, while the maraschino cherry garnish adds a touch of sophistication and a burst of intense cherry flavour.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries can elevate this simple cocktail to new heights. Their rich, complex flavour provides a gourmet contrast to the sweet, simple flavours of the drink. Plus, their deep red colour makes for a striking garnish against the pink hue of the cocktail.

This cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s a trip down memory lane with a grown-up twist. The maraschino cherry serves as both a visual reminder of childhood treats and a flavourful addition to the adult beverage. Whether you’re looking for a sweet, easy-drinking cocktail or a nostalgic tipple, the Dirty Shirley delivers on all fronts, with the maraschino cherry playing a starring role in both flavour and presentation.

5. Aviation: A Sky-High Maraschino Experience

The Aviation is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 20th century. This gin-based drink gets its distinctive pale blue colour from crème de violette and features maraschino liqueur as a key ingredient.

Here’s how to craft this elegant cocktail:

• 60ml gin
• 15ml maraschino liqueur
• 15ml crème de violette
• 22.5ml fresh lemon juice
• Maraschino cherry for garnish (Luxardo maraschino cherries recommended)

Combine all ingredients except the cherry in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

The Aviation is a perfect showcase for the versatility of maraschino flavours in cocktails. While it doesn’t use whole cherries in the drink itself, the maraschino liqueur provides a subtle cherry sweetness that balances beautifully with the floral notes of the crème de violette and the botanical flavours of the gin.

The maraschino cherry garnish is more than just a pretty addition – it’s a flavour enhancer that complements the maraschino liqueur in the drink. Using a Luxardo maraschino cherry can elevate the cocktail even further, providing a rich, complex cherry flavour that stands up to the other strong flavours in the drink.

This cocktail is a testament to the importance of balance in mixology. The maraschino elements provide just enough sweetness to offset the tartness of the lemon juice and the herbal notes of the gin, resulting in a harmonious and sophisticated drink. The pale blue colour, reminiscent of the sky, combined with the deep red of the maraschino cherry garnish, makes for a visually stunning cocktail that’s sure to impress.

6. Cherry Cola Old Fashioned: A Nostalgic Twist on a Classic

The Cherry Cola Old Fashioned is a modern take on the classic Old Fashioned, incorporating the nostalgic flavours of cherry cola with the sophistication of a traditional whiskey cocktail.

Here’s how to make this delightful fusion:

• 60ml bourbon or rye whiskey
• 15ml cherry cola syrup (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 2 dashes orange bitters
• 30ml cola
• Luxardo maraschino cherry for garnish
• Orange peel for garnish

In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, cherry cola syrup, and both types of bitters. Add ice and stir until well-chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Top with a splash of cola. Garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry and an orange peel.

This cocktail is a perfect example of how maraschino cherries can be used to bridge the gap between classic cocktails and modern flavour trends. The cherry cola syrup provides a sweet, nostalgic base that complements the robust flavours of the whiskey, while the Luxardo maraschino cherry garnish adds a touch of luxury and an extra burst of rich cherry flavour.

The use of Luxardo maraschino cherries is particularly important in this cocktail. Their intense flavour and firm texture provide a gourmet contrast to the sweetness of the cherry cola syrup, elevating the drink from a simple mixed drink to a sophisticated cocktail.

The Cherry Cola Old Fashioned is more than just a drink; it’s a conversation starter. The familiar flavours of cherry cola combined with the classic structure of an Old Fashioned create a unique and memorable cocktail experience. The maraschino cherry garnish serves as both a visual cue to the cherry flavours in the drink and a delicious treat to enjoy at the end of your cocktail.

7. Maraschino Cherry Daiquiri: A Fruity Rum Delight

The Maraschino Cherry Daiquiri is a fruity twist on the classic rum cocktail, incorporating the sweet flavour of maraschino cherries for a delightful summer sipper.

Here’s how to whip up this cherry-licious cocktail:

• 60ml white rum
• 30ml fresh lime juice
• 15ml maraschino liqueur
• 15ml simple syrup
• 3-4 Luxardo maraschino cherries (plus extra for garnish)

In a shaker, muddle the maraschino cherries. Add the rum, lime juice, maraschino liqueur, and simple syrup. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a skewer of Luxardo maraschino cherries.

This cocktail is a celebration of maraschino cherries, showcasing their ability to complement and enhance the flavours of rum and lime. The muddled cherries infuse the drink with their rich flavour, while the maraschino liqueur adds depth and complexity.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries in this cocktail is key to achieving the best flavour. Their intense, slightly tart flavour stands up well to the rum and lime, creating a more balanced and sophisticated drink than you’d get with standard cocktail cherries.

The Maraschino Cherry Daiquiri is more than just a fruity cocktail; it’s a testament to the versatility of maraschino cherries in mixology. By incorporating the cherries in multiple forms – muddled in the drink, as a liqueur, and as a garnish – this cocktail creates a layered cherry flavour that evolves as you sip.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool or dreaming of tropical beaches, this cherry-forward daiquiri is sure to transport you to a state of fruity, rum-soaked bliss. The vibrant red colour and the skewer of plump Luxardo cherries make for an eye-catching presentation that’s as delightful to look at as it is to drink.

8. Black Forest Martini: A Decadent Maraschino Dessert Cocktail

The Black Forest Martini is a indulgent cocktail that takes inspiration from the classic Black Forest Cake, featuring the rich flavours of chocolate and cherry, with maraschino cherries playing a starring role.

Here’s how to create this decadent drink:

• 45ml vodka
• 30ml crème de cacao
• 15ml cherry liqueur (preferably Cherry Heering)
• 15ml heavy cream
• Chocolate syrup for garnish
• Luxardo maraschino cherry for garnish
• Grated dark chocolate for garnish

Before mixing the cocktail, drizzle chocolate syrup in a chilled martini glass. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, crème de cacao, cherry liqueur, and heavy cream. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well-chilled and frothy. Strain into the prepared martini glass. Garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry and a sprinkle of grated dark chocolate.

This cocktail is a perfect example of how maraschino cherries can elevate a dessert-inspired drink. The cherry liqueur provides a sweet, fruity base that complements the rich chocolate flavours, while the Luxardo maraschino cherry garnish adds a luxurious touch and an extra burst of intense cherry flavour.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries is particularly important in this cocktail. Their complex flavour and firm texture provide a gourmet contrast to the creamy, chocolatey drink, making each sip a truly indulgent experience.

The Black Forest Martini is more than just a cocktail; it’s a dessert in a glass. The combination of chocolate and cherry flavours, enhanced by the cream and vodka, creates a rich, satisfying drink that’s perfect for after-dinner sipping or anytime you’re craving a sweet, boozy treat. The maraschino cherry garnish serves as both a visual reminder of the classic cake that inspired the drink and a delicious finale to enjoy once you’ve savoured every last drop of the cocktail.

9. Maraschino Cherry Whiskey Sour: A Fruity Twist on a Classic

The Maraschino Cherry Whiskey Sour is a delightful variation on the classic Whiskey Sour, incorporating the sweet flavour of maraschino cherries for a fruity kick.

Here’s how to mix up this cherry-infused cocktail:

• 60ml bourbon whiskey
• 30ml fresh lemon juice
• 15ml simple syrup
• 15ml maraschino cherry syrup (from a jar of Luxardo ma
• 60ml bourbon whiskey
• 30ml fresh lemon juice
• 15ml simple syrup
• 15ml maraschino cherry syrup (from a jar of Luxardo maraschino cherries)
• 1 egg white (optional, for a silky texture)
• 2-3 Luxardo maraschino cherries for garnish

Add all ingredients except the garnish to a shaker without ice. Dry shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 10-15 seconds until well-chilled. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with Luxardo maraschino cherries on a cocktail pick.

This cocktail showcases how maraschino cherries can add a new dimension to a classic drink. The maraschino cherry syrup provides a sweet, fruity note that complements the bourbon’s caramel flavours and balances the tartness of the lemon juice. The result is a more complex and nuanced version of the traditional Whiskey Sour.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries and their syrup is key to achieving the best flavour in this cocktail. The rich, slightly tart flavour of Luxardo cherries adds depth to the drink, elevating it beyond a simple fruit-flavoured cocktail.

The Maraschino Cherry Whiskey Sour is more than just a variation on a classic; it’s a testament to the versatility of maraschino cherries in mixology. By incorporating the cherry flavour into the body of the drink and using whole cherries as a garnish, this cocktail creates a layered cherry experience that evolves as you sip.

Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado looking to try something new or a cherry lover exploring the world of cocktails, this drink offers a perfect blend of familiar and novel flavours. The vibrant red cherries floating atop the frothy cocktail make for an eye-catching presentation that’s sure to impress.

10. Cherry Blossom Martini: A Floral Maraschino Delight

The Cherry Blossom Martini is a delicate and aromatic cocktail that combines the sweetness of maraschino cherries with floral notes, creating a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Here’s how to craft this elegant cocktail:

• 45ml gin (preferably a floral gin like Hendrick’s)
• 30ml cherry blossom liqueur (or cherry liqueur if unavailable)
• 15ml maraschino liqueur
• 15ml fresh lemon juice
• 1 dash rose water
• Luxardo maraschino cherry for garnish
• Edible flower petal for garnish (optional)

Combine all ingredients except the garnishes in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry and an edible flower petal if desired.

This cocktail is a perfect example of how maraschino cherries can complement and enhance more delicate flavours. The maraschino liqueur provides a sweet, fruity base that pairs beautifully with the floral notes of the gin and cherry blossom liqueur, while the Luxardo maraschino cherry garnish adds a luxurious touch and an extra burst of rich cherry flavour.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries is particularly important in this cocktail. Their complex flavour and firm texture provide a gourmet contrast to the light, floral drink, making each sip a truly sophisticated experience.

The Cherry Blossom Martini is more than just a cocktail; it’s a sensory experience. The combination of cherry and floral flavours creates a drink that’s reminiscent of a spring garden in full bloom. The maraschino cherry garnish serves as both a visual accent, contrasting beautifully with the pale pink hue of the cocktail, and a flavourful finale to enjoy once you’ve savoured the last sip.

Whether you’re celebrating the arrival of spring or simply in the mood for something elegant and unique, this cocktail offers a perfect blend of fruity sweetness and floral sophistication. It’s a testament to the versatility of maraschino cherries, showing how they can elevate even the most delicate of cocktails.

11. Maraschino Cherry Mojito: A Fruity Twist on a Cuban Classic

The Maraschino Cherry Mojito takes the refreshing Cuban classic and gives it a fruity twist with the addition of maraschino cherries. This cocktail is perfect for summer sipping and showcases how maraschino cherries can add a new dimension to familiar favourites.

Here’s how to mix up this cherry-infused mojito:

• 60ml white rum
• 30ml fresh lime juice
• 15ml maraschino cherry syrup (from a jar of Luxardo maraschino cherries)
• 8-10 fresh mint leaves
• 2-3 Luxardo maraschino cherries (plus extra for garnish)
• Soda water to top
• Mint sprig for garnish

In a highball glass, muddle the mint leaves with the maraschino cherries and cherry syrup. Add the rum and lime juice, then fill the glass with crushed ice. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Top with soda water and stir gently. Garnish with a sprig of mint and additional Luxardo maraschino cherries.

This cocktail demonstrates how maraschino cherries can add a fruity sweetness to balance the tartness of lime and the herbal notes of mint in a traditional mojito. The cherry syrup provides a subtle cherry flavour throughout the drink, while the muddled cherries infuse the cocktail with their rich taste.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries is key to achieving the best flavour in this cocktail. Their intense, slightly tart flavour stands up well to the other strong flavours in the mojito, creating a more balanced and sophisticated drink than you’d get with standard cocktail cherries.

The Maraschino Cherry Mojito is more than just a variation on a classic; it’s a refreshing new take that combines the best of both worlds – the crisp, minty freshness of a mojito with the sweet, fruity appeal of maraschino cherries. The vibrant red cherries floating among the green mint leaves make for a visually striking cocktail that’s as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a summer barbecue, or simply in need of a refreshing drink, this cherry-infused mojito offers a perfect blend of familiar and novel flavours. It’s a testament to the versatility of maraschino cherries in mixology, showing how they can breathe new life into even the most established cocktail recipes.

12. Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini: A Decadent Maraschino Treat

The Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini is an indulgent cocktail that combines the rich flavours of chocolate with the sweet allure of maraschino cherries. This dessert-like drink is perfect for those with a sweet tooth and showcases maraschino cherries in both flavour and presentation.

Here’s how to create this luxurious cocktail:

• 45ml vanilla vodka
• 30ml chocolate liqueur
• 15ml maraschino liqueur
• 15ml heavy cream
• Chocolate syrup for garnish
• Luxardo maraschino cherry for garnish
• Grated chocolate for garnish

Before mixing the cocktail, drizzle chocolate syrup in a chilled martini glass, swirling to coat the inside. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vanilla vodka, chocolate liqueur, maraschino liqueur, and heavy cream. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well-chilled and frothy. Strain into the prepared martini glass. Garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry and a sprinkle of grated chocolate.

This cocktail is a perfect example of how maraschino cherries can elevate a dessert-inspired drink. The maraschino liqueur provides a sweet, fruity note that complements the rich chocolate flavours, while the Luxardo maraschino cherry garnish adds a luxurious touch and an extra burst of intense cherry flavour.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries is particularly important in this cocktail. Their complex flavour and firm texture provide a gourmet contrast to the creamy, chocolatey drink, making each sip a truly indulgent experience.

The Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini is more than just a cocktail; it’s a dessert in a glass. The combination of chocolate and cherry flavours, enhanced by the creamy texture and vanilla notes, creates a rich, satisfying drink that’s perfect for after-dinner sipping or anytime you’re craving a sweet, boozy treat. The maraschino cherry garnish serves as both a visual reminder of the classic confection that inspired the drink and a delicious finale to enjoy once you’ve savoured every last drop of the cocktail.

Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a cherry enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys the finer things in life, this decadent martini offers a perfect blend of flavours that’s sure to satisfy. It’s a testament to the versatility of maraschino cherries, showing how they can play a starring role in even the most indulgent of cocktails.

13. Maraschino Cherry Gin Fizz: A Bubbly Cherry Delight

The Maraschino Cherry Gin Fizz is a refreshing and effervescent cocktail that combines the botanical notes of gin with the sweet allure of maraschino cherries. This bubbly drink is perfect for warm summer days or anytime you’re in the mood for something light and fruity.

Here’s how to mix up this fizzy cherry cocktail:

• 60ml gin
• 30ml fresh lemon juice
• 15ml maraschino cherry syrup (from a jar of Luxardo maraschino cherries)
• 1 egg white (optional, for a silky texture)
• Soda water to top
• 2-3 Luxardo maraschino cherries for garnish

Add the gin, lemon juice, maraschino cherry syrup, and egg white (if using) to a shaker without ice. Dry shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 10-15 seconds until well-chilled. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and stir gently. Garnish with Luxardo maraschino cherries on a cocktail pick.

This cocktail showcases how maraschino cherries can add a fruity twist to a classic gin fizz. The maraschino cherry syrup provides a sweet, cherry note that complements the botanical flavours of the gin and balances the tartness of the lemon juice. The result is a more complex and nuanced version of the traditional Gin Fizz.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries and their syrup is key to achieving the best flavour in this cocktail. The rich, slightly tart flavour of Luxardo cherries adds depth to the drink, elevating it beyond a simple fruit-flavoured fizz.

The Maraschino Cherry Gin Fizz is more than just a variation on a classic; it’s a testament to the versatility of maraschino cherries in mixology. By incorporating the cherry flavour into the body of the drink and using whole cherries as a garnish, this cocktail creates a layered cherry experience that evolves as you sip.

Whether you’re a gin lover looking to try something new or a cherry enthusiast exploring the world of cocktails, this drink offers a perfect blend of familiar and novel flavours. The vibrant red cherries floating atop the frothy cocktail make for an eye-catching presentation that’s sure to impress, while the bubbly texture and refreshing taste make it a perfect choice for any occasion.

14. Maraschino Cherry Old Fashioned: A Fruity Twist on a Classic

The Maraschino Cherry Old Fashioned takes the timeless whiskey cocktail and gives it a fruity twist with the addition of maraschino cherries. This variation maintains the sophisticated character of the original while introducing a subtle sweetness that complements the robust flavours of the whiskey.

Here’s how to craft this cherry-infused classic:

• 60ml bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 sugar cube
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• 15ml maraschino cherry syrup (from a jar of Luxardo maraschino cherries)
• 2-3 Luxardo maraschino cherries for garnish
• Orange peel for garnish

In an old fashioned glass, muddle the sugar cube with the Angostura bitters, orange bitters, and a small splash of water until the sugar is dissolved. Add the whiskey and maraschino cherry syrup, then fill the glass with ice. Stir well for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the drink. Garnish with Luxardo maraschino cherries and an orange peel.

This cocktail demonstrates how maraschino cherries can add a new dimension to a classic drink without overpowering its essential character. The maraschino cherry syrup provides a subtle sweetness that complements the caramel and vanilla notes in the whiskey, while the Luxardo maraschino cherries add a luxurious touch and an extra burst of rich cherry flavour.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries is particularly important in this cocktail. Their complex flavour and firm texture provide a gourmet contrast to the strong, spirit-forward drink, making each sip a truly sophisticated experience.

The Maraschino Cherry Old Fashioned is more than just a variation on a classic; it’s a testament to the versatility of maraschino cherries in mixology. By incorporating the cherry flavour into the body of the drink and using whole cherries as a garnish, this cocktail creates a layered cherry experience that evolves as you sip.

Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado looking to try something new or a cherry lover exploring the world of cocktails, this drink offers a perfect blend of familiar and novel flavours. The deep red cherries nestled in the amber liquid make for an eye-catching presentation that’s as pleasing to look at as it is to drink.

15. Maraschino Cherry Bellini: A Bubbly Brunch Favourite

The Maraschino Cherry Bellini is a fruity and effervescent cocktail that puts a cherry twist on the classic Italian Bellini. This sparkling drink is perfect for brunches, celebrations, or anytime you want to add a touch of elegance to your day.

Here’s how to create this bubbly cherry delight:

• 30ml maraschino cherry syrup (from a jar of Luxardo maraschino cherries)
• 15ml peach puree
• Prosecco or Champagne to top
• Luxardo maraschino cherry for garnish

In a champagne flute, combine the maraschino cherry syrup and peach puree. Slowly top with chilled Prosecco or Champagne, stirring gently to combine. Garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry.

This cocktail showcases how maraschino cherries can add a new dimension to classic sparkling cocktails. The maraschino cherry syrup provides a sweet, fruity base that complements the peach flavours and pairs beautifully with the crisp bubbles of the Prosecco or Champagne.

Using Luxardo maraschino cherries and their syrup is key to achieving the best flavour in this cocktail. The rich, slightly tart flavour of Luxardo cherries adds depth to the drink, elevating it beyond a simple fruit-flavoured sparkler.

The Maraschino Cherry Bellini is more than just a variation on a classic; it’s a testament to the versatility of maraschino cherries in mixology. By incorporating the cherry flavour into the body of the drink and using a whole cherry as a garnish, this cocktail creates a layered cherry experience that evolves as you sip.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply in the mood for something light and bubbly, this cherry-infused Bellini offers a perfect blend of fruity sweetness and sparkling sophistication. The vibrant red cherry sinking slowly through the pale pink cocktail makes for a visually striking drink that’s sure to impress your guests.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Versatility of Maraschino Cherries in Cocktails

As we’ve explored these 15 delicious cocktails, it’s clear that maraschino cherries are far more than just a simple garnish. From classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Old Fashioned to modern creations like the Cherry Bourbon Smash and Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini, these glossy red fruits have proven their versatility and importance in the world of mixology.

Maraschino cherries bring several key elements to cocktails:

1. Sweetness: They provide a natural sweetness that can balance out stronger, more bitter flavours in spirits and liqueurs.
2. Colour: The vibrant red hue of maraschino cherries adds visual appeal to any cocktail.
3. Texture: Especially when using premium options like Luxardo maraschino cherries, they provide a satisfying bite that contrasts nicely with liquid elements.
4. Flavour complexity: High-quality maraschino cherries offer a depth of flavour that goes beyond simple sweetness, adding nuance to cocktails.
5. Nostalgia: For many, maraschino cherries evoke childhood memories, adding an emotional element to cocktails.

Throughout this article, we’ve emphasized the importance of using high-quality maraschino cherries, particularly Luxardo maraschino cherries. The difference between premium maraschino cherries and standard cocktail cherries is significant. Luxardo cherries, with their firm texture, deep flavour, and rich syrup, can elevate a cocktail from good to exceptional.

We’ve also seen how versatile maraschino cherries can be in cocktails. They pair well with a wide range of spirits, from whiskey and gin to vodka and rum. They complement other fruit flavours, work well in creamy cocktails, and can even hold their own in complex, multi-layered drinks.

Moreover, maraschino cherries can play different roles in cocktails. They can be:

• A garnish, adding visual appeal and a final burst of flavour
• A muddled ingredient, infusing the drink with their flavour
• A syrup, providing sweetness and cherry flavour throughout the cocktail
• A liqueur, adding depth and complexity to the drink

As you experiment with these cocktails and create your own, remember that the key to using maraschino cherries effectively is balance. While their sweetness and flavour can enhance a drink, they shouldn’t overpower the other ingredients. The goal is to create a harmonious blend of flavours where the maraschino cherry complements and elevates the other elements.

Whether you’re a professional bartender or a home mixologist, we hope this exploration of maraschino cherry cocktails has inspired you to get creative with these versatile fruits. From reinventing classics to crafting entirely new concoctions, the possibilities are endless when you have a jar of quality maraschino cherries at your disposal.

So the next time you’re mixing up a drink, don’t relegate that maraschino cherry to mere garnish status. Consider how you can incorporate its flavour, colour, and texture into your cocktail in new and exciting ways. Who knows? You might just create the next classic maraschino cherry cocktail.

Cheers to the mighty maraschino cherry – small in size, but big in flavour and cocktail potential!

FAQ: Maraschino Cherries in Cocktails

To round off our exploration of maraschino cherry cocktails, let’s address some frequently asked questions:

1. Q: What’s the difference between regular maraschino cherries and Luxardo cherries?
   A: Luxardo cherries are a premium variety made from marasca cherries and preserved in maraschino liqueur syrup. They have a firmer texture, deeper flavour, and are less artificially sweet than standard cocktail cherries.
2. Q: Can I substitute regular cherries for maraschino cherries in cocktails?
   A: While fresh cherries can be used in some cocktails, they won’t provide the same sweetness or texture as maraschino cherries. The flavour profile will be different.
3. Q: How long do maraschino cherries last?
   A: Unopened, they can last for years. Once opened, store them in the refrigerator where they’ll keep for 6-12 months.
4. Q: Are there any non-alcoholic cocktails that use maraschino cherries?
   A: Yes! Shirley Temples are a classic non-alcoholic drink featuring maraschino cherries. You can also add them to lemonades, iced teas, or sodas for a cherry twist.
5. Q: Can I make my own maraschino cherries at home?
   A: Yes, it’s possible to make homemade maraschino cherries. However, it’s a time-consuming process and may not replicate the exact flavour and texture of commercial varieties.
6. Q: Are maraschino cherries healthy?
   A: While cherries themselves have health benefits, maraschino cherries are high in sugar and often contain artificial ingredients. They should be enjoyed in moderation as a treat.
7. Q: What’s the best way to store opened maraschino cherries?
   A: Keep them in their original jar, covered with syrup, and store in the refrigerator.
8. Q: Can I use the syrup from maraschino cherries in cocktails?
   A: Absolutely! The syrup is great for adding sweetness and cherry flavour to cocktails.
9. Q: Are there any savory dishes that use maraschino cherries?
   A: While less common, maraschino cherries can be used in some savory dishes, particularly in glazes for ham or pork.
10. Q: What’s the origin of maraschino cherries?
    A: Originally, maraschino cherries were marasca cherries preserved in maraschino liqueur, originating in Croatia. The modern, bright red cocktail cherry was developed in the United States in the early 20th century.

Remember, when it comes to maraschino cherries in cocktails, quality matters. Investing in good cherries can significantly improve your cocktail game. Happy mixing!