The Cherry Vodka Sour is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that combines the smoothness of vodka with the bright, tangy flavor of fresh cherries. A fun twist on the traditional whiskey sour, this drink adds a fruity flair while keeping the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual evening, the Cherry Vodka Sour is a delightful and easy-to-make cocktail that is sure to please.
The base of the Cherry Vodka Sour starts with vodka, which offers a neutral, clean foundation for the drink. The addition of fresh lemon juice gives it that signature sour tang, balancing the sweetness of the cherries. Fresh or maraschino cherries can be muddled to release their juicy flavor, creating a rich cherry syrup that adds depth and sweetness to the cocktail. A touch of simple syrup enhances the sweetness, while a dash of bitters can be added for complexity.
Once the ingredients are shaken together, the cocktail is served over ice in a rocks glass, with the vibrant pink hue of the drink making it visually appealing. The cherry flavor shines through, while the tang of lemon provides a refreshing kick. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the drink with a cherry on top or a slice of lemon for a pop of color.
The Cherry Vodka Sour is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can adjust the amount of simple syrup or add a little more cherry syrup. For those who like a stronger sour note, a bit more lemon juice can do the trick. The drink is perfect for warm-weather gatherings, but its balanced flavors make it a great option year-round.
Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a quiet evening, or looking for a refreshing drink to complement your meal, the Cherry Vodka Sour is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka plain or cherry-flavored
- 1 oz cherry juice unsweetened for more tartness
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 oz simple syrup adjust to taste
- 1 piece maraschino cherry for garnish
- 1 slice lemon for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add vodka, cherry juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake well to combine and chill the ingredients.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a lemon slice.
I don’t like cherries, so I wasn’t a fan. Maybe it’s better with regular vodka?
I totally get where you’re coming from! Maybe you can try it with a different juice instead of cherry. It could be interesting to experiment!
Super easy to make, but I added a bit more lemon juice and it was too sour for me! Next time will adjust the syrup.
This drink is delicious! The cherry flavor is just perfect. 🍒
Totally agree! Cherry flavor is the best part. 🍹
Tried this for a party and it was a hit! Guests couldn’t stop asking for more. Will definitely make it again!
I made this for a party, and everyone loved it! Easy to make, too.
I don’t know, it was a bit too sweet for me. I prefer my drinks on the sour side.
I totally get what you mean! You can easily cut back on the simple syrup for less sweetness. I like it sour too! 🍋
I was skeptical at first, but this actually turned out pretty good. I used regular vodka and it still tasted great! ⭐⭐⭐
Too much lemon juice! Who needs to taste a lemon war?
It’s alright but I think I’d like it better without the simple syrup. Too sweet for my taste!
Are cherries and lemons really supposed to go together? I dunno, seemed weird but it turned out surprisingly nice. Might try it again. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome recipe! Can’t believe how quick it was to make. 🍋
I think cherry juice should be unsweetened for the recipe. Is that right?
I just don’t like cherries. 🤷♂️
Yummy drink! I added some soda water and it was refreshing. 10/10 for summer!
Glad you liked it! Soda water is a great idea to make it even more refreshing. I might try that next time!
10/10? Really? I thought it was too sweet. Are you sure you didn’t put too much syrup?
Way too sweet for my taste! I didn’t like it at all and ended up pouring it down the sink. 😒 ⭐⭐
This is not a real cocktail! Cherry juice and vodka?! What’s next, toothpaste martinis?
Toothpaste martinis? C’mon, that’s just ridiculous! This cocktail sounds great to me.
I think it’s a creative take! Cherry vodka is quite popular, don’t knock it till you try it.
This drink is amazing! So refreshing and perfect for summer. I added a bit more cherry juice and it was perfect. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This drink is the bomb! Just the right amount of sweet and tart. Love it!
Totally agree! This drink is so refreshing, perfect for summer parties!
Cherry vodka sucks. Why would anyone mix it with lemon juice? Totally not my thing.
I get why you might not like it, but not everyone has the same taste! Cherry vodka can be really sweet and refreshing if you mix it right. Just give it another chance!
I followed the recipe but it ended up way too sour for my taste. Maybe I used too much lemon juice?
Not my thing. Too fruity for me. I stick to whiskey.
It tasted good but my friends said it was too sour for them. Need to balance it better.
Sour is the point, right? But I guess if your friends didn’t like it, maybe try less lemon juice? 🤷♂️
I think the sourness really adds to the drink! Maybe some extra simple syrup next time?
Delicious! First time making a cocktail and it was super easy! Also, I’m pretty sure maraschino cherries are just for looks but they made it fancy! 🍹 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
OMG this is delish! I could drink these all day! Yasss!
Why you mix vodka with cherry juice? Seems weird. I prefer just vodka.
Mixing vodka with cherry juice makes a great flavor combo! Try it out before judging! 🍹
This was so refreshing! Definitely my new favorite drink! 🍒🍹
Not sure why i would mix vodka with cherry juice, feels off.
I made this for my friends and they loved it! Super refreshing and perfect for summer BBQs.
This is my go-to cocktail! So refreshing and nice!
Simple syrup? What’s that? I just used sugar. Still turned out good!
I tried using orange juice instead of lemon and it was uhh… strange.
I thought it would be too sweet, but the tartness is just right! Definitely making it again.
Glad you enjoyed it! The tartness really balances out the sweetness. Cheers!
Yummm! Perfect summer drink! 🍹🍒
meh.
Not everyone loves it, but I found it pretty tasty! The cherry flavor is nice.
Pretty good, but I prefer my drinks a bit stronger. Maybe add more vodka next time?
Easy to make! Just follow the steps and you will be fine! 👍
Totally agree! This drink turned out amazing 😍
I think it’s too sweet with all that syrup, might skip it next time! 🤔
Simple, easy, and quick! Love how it looks too. Perfect for parties!
I found it too sweet. Should’ve used less simple syrup. Might try again with adjustments.