The Cherry Smash is a delightful cocktail that combines the sweet, tangy flavors of fresh cherries with the bright, crisp notes of citrus and a splash of alcohol. Perfect for a summer gathering, a casual get-together, or any occasion that calls for a refreshing drink, the Cherry Smash is a fun and easy cocktail to make. With its vibrant color and balanced flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite at your next event.
At the heart of the Cherry Smash is fresh cherries, which provide both sweetness and a slight tartness. By muddling the cherries, you release their natural juices, creating a fruit-forward base that gives the cocktail a fresh, homemade feel. The addition of mint leaves adds an aromatic twist, complementing the cherries and giving the drink a refreshing herbal note.
A good splash of lemon juice brings brightness to the cocktail, balancing the sweetness of the cherries and creating a harmonious mix of flavors. Some variations of the Cherry Smash include a hint of simple syrup for added sweetness, but if you prefer a more tart drink, you can skip the syrup and let the natural cherry flavor shine through.
To complete the cocktail, your choice of spirit is key. Bourbon adds depth and warmth, making the Cherry Smash feel cozy yet refreshing. Alternatively, rum can be used for a lighter, sweeter option, while vodka provides a neutral base that lets the cherry and citrus flavors take center stage. Top the drink off with a splash of club soda or sparkling water for some effervescence, giving it a bubbly finish.
The Cherry Smash is best served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with a cherry, a sprig of fresh mint, or a slice of lemon to add a pop of color. Whether you’re sipping it on a warm afternoon or enjoying it as a sweet treat at the end of the day, this cocktail is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 10 whole cherries pitted
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 5 leaves mint fresh
- 1/2 oz lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 cup ice crushed
- 1 slice lemon for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the pitted cherries and mint leaves until well combined.
- Add bourbon, simple syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with crushed ice and shake well until chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon and a cherry on top. Serve immediately.
Nah, too sweet. I like my drinks more bitter.
I get that! A hint of bitterness can really elevate a cocktail. Ever tried adding a splash of soda water instead of the simple syrup? Gives it a nice balance!
Absolutely delightful! Perfect for summer nights.
This is so good! Perfect for summer nights.
Totally agree! I made it last week and it was a hit with my friends! 🍒
Looks good, but I don’t know about putting cherries in cocktails. Isn’t that just for desserts? 🤔
OMG! This is the bomb! My new favorite drink!
I dunno, it was okay but I expected more. Maybe more cherries would help?
I think more cherries would definitely make it sweeter! Give it another shot with extra fruit.
I dunno, I mean, is bourbon really the best for this? What about vodka?
Whaaaaat? You really shake it? I just stir mine, lol!
Too much mint for me. I think I would skip that next time.
I don’t even know what simple syrup is… can I just use sugar? 🤷♂️
Simple and tasty! I love it. Thanks for sharing.
It tastes kinda weird bcuz of the bourbon. I thought it would be sweeter. My friends liked it more than I did.
Not so great, tasted too much like cherries. I prefer something stronger.
Quick question—how do you muddle? Just smash the cherries? Help?
Yes, just smash ’em with something! A wooden spoon works great. You’re gonna love it!
Muddling? Isn’t that just another word for smashing? Use your hands or a hammer, I guess?
Whoa! I made this for a party and it was a hit! Everybody loved it.
I used frozen cherries, totally fine right? Maybe too cold though.
Lemon slice? Is that necessary? Just drink it!
This drink is amazing! The mint really lifts the flavor of the cherries! 5 stars all the way! 🍒
Not sure I like mint in cherry drinks. Isn’t that weird? Just stick to the cherries! 🤔
I agree! The mint really makes it pop. I can’t believe how refreshing it is! 🍃
This drink was AMAZING! So refreshing and perfect for summer. Will definitely make again!
So easy to make! I made it for my friends and they loved it! I’m not a big fan of bourbon but it’s not too overpowering here.
Yum! Added a splash of soda for some fizz. My guests loved it!
Amazing cocktail! Just like the cherry drinks i had at my cousin’s wedding!
Too much bourbon for my taste. I think I’m gonna stick to beer.
This drink was amazing! The cherry flavor really comes through. Will definitely make it again!
yum!
Cherries and mint? Sounds weird! But I tried it and WOW, I was surprised! Kinda addictive, honestly.
I don’t really get the hype. It was okay but nothing special. Maybe I did it wrong? 🤷♂️
Used whiskey instead of bourbon, still tasted fab – no regrets!
I followed the recipe and worked surprisingly well! Not a fan of mint tho… 😕
Glad it worked out for you! You could try leaving out the mint next time. The cherries are so sweet anyway!
Delicious! I loved the minty freshness. Perfect for summer parties!
Bourbon and cherries are a match made in heaven! My new favorite cocktail!
This drink is an absolute treat! Perfect for summer nights. 🍹
Wow, the mint makes it so refreshing! Who knew cherry and mint really go together so well!
I thought mint was just for toothpaste! But this sounds good! Gonna try it.
Really? Cherry and mint? That sounds weird, I’ve never seen that combo before. Is it even tasty?
Cherry Smash? Sounds more like a cherry mess. Didn’t turn out right for me.
Sorry to hear that! Maybe your cherries weren’t ripe enough? 🙁
It sounds easy, but I think people just mess it up sometimes. I loved it!
I tried this recipe but forgot the lemon juice. Still good though! Just kinda sweet?
I tried it, but I think I put too many cherries. Made it too sweet for my taste.
Too sweet? Huh. I actually like it sweet! But I guess everyone has their own flavors. Try adding more lemon next time to balance! 🍋
I think cherries are a great choice, but maybe just use fewer next time! It all depends on personal taste. Don’t give up on it; just tweak the ratios! 😊
Wasn’t sure about lemon juice in a drink like this… but wow, it was refreshing!
I was skeptical too, but lemon really does add a nice zing! Love this drink!
This feels like a lot of work for a drink. Can’t I just drink bourbon on the rocks instead?
Why put bourbon in it? Can’t you just use any alcohol? Kinda confused about that.
Super easy to make! I let my kids help with muddling the cherries, they had a blast.
I don’t really like cherries, so I’m not sure why I tried this. It’s okay… but just not my thing.
Too complicated for me. Just pour some bourbon and call it a day! 🙄