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Cherry Bounce

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Test Kitchen Approved
Total Time

Prep: 5 min. Cook: 25 min. + standing

Makes

5-1/4 cups

Updated: Jun. 27, 2023
Smooth and with the fragrant flavor of sweet cherries, this homemade cherry bounce recipe makes a wonderful holiday gift. For an additional treat, the drained cherries are delicious over vanilla ice cream. —Matt Warren, Mequon, Wisconsin
Cherry Bounce
Cherry Bounce Recipe photo by Taste of Home
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Ingredients

  • 4-1/2 pounds fresh unpitted sweet cherries
  • 2-1/4 cups sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1-1/2 cups spiced rum
  • 1-1/2 cups brandy

Directions

  1. Place cherries in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until soft. Strain juice through a cheesecloth-lined colander; divide cherries among six 1-pint jars.
  2. Return juice to saucepan; add sugar and allspice. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl; cool completely.
  3. Stir in rum and brandy; pour syrup into bottles over cherries. Cover and let stand for at least 1 month, stirring every week. Store in a cool, dry place up to 3 months.

Cherry Bounce Tips

What is cherry bounce?

Cherry bounce is a fruity, spiced homemade cordial, or cocktail, made with fresh, unpitted sweet or sour cherries. It’s typically made with rum, although some versions use vodka, bourbon, brandy or whiskey. Cherry bounce dates back to the mid-1600s, and it is said that it was one of George Washington’s favorite drinks. Cherry bounce is often served as part of dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas. It also makes a great gift. Love fresh cherries? Here are more creative recipes with fresh cherries.

Why is it called cherry bounce?

The name of the drink may derive from an 18th century definition of the term bounce, which meant a sharp blow. The name of the drink may imply a meaning similar to the modern term for shot.

How can I use cherry bounce?

Enjoy it as a holiday libation or use the liquor-soaked cherries (and liquid) to top vanilla ice cream or pound cake. The cherries can also be used to garnish cocktails. Find more boozy desserts that would be fabulous for a cocktail or dinner party.

Are there different variations of cherry bounce?

You can make other fruit versions of cherry bounce, such as apricot or peach. There are also regional variations of cherry bounce that use cherries native to that area. It’s a popular drink in the south.

—Amy Glander, Taste of Home Book Editor

Nutrition Facts

1-1/2 ounces: 160 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 28g carbohydrate (26g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.