If you adore classic cocktails with a fruity twist, the Cherry Manhattan Recipe is destined to become your new favorite. This cocktail brilliantly combines the rich warmth of rye whiskey with the smooth sweetness of cherry liqueur and the subtle herbal notes of sweet vermouth, all rounded off with aromatic bitters. Every sip offers a perfect balance of bold and sweet flavors, making this drink an exceptional choice for both casual evenings and special occasions. It’s an elegant yet approachable cocktail that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating a fantastic Cherry Manhattan Recipe is delightfully straightforward, thanks to a handful of carefully chosen ingredients. Each component brings its own charm — from the spirited base to the fruity and herbal accents — coming together to craft an unforgettable flavor.
- Rye whiskey or bourbon: Provides a bold, spicy backbone that defines the character of this cocktail.
- Sweet vermouth: Adds a smooth, slightly sweet complexity with herbal undertones.
- Cherry liqueur (like Cherry Heering or Luxardo): Imparts a rich cherry sweetness that gives this Manhattan its unique twist.
- Angostura bitters: A few dashes introduce depth and aromatic spice, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Ice: Essential for chilling without watering down the drink too quickly.
- Cocktail cherry (such as Luxardo): The classic garnish that adds a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Orange peel (optional): Offers a bright citrus aroma that complements the cherry and whiskey notes seamlessly.
How to Make Cherry Manhattan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Glassware
First things first, chill your coupe or martini glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water for a few minutes. A cold glass keeps your Cherry Manhattan Recipe at the ideal temperature longer, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
Step 2: Mix the Cocktail
Fill a mixing glass generously with ice. Pour in 2 ounces of rye whiskey (or bourbon if you prefer a slightly sweeter profile), followed by 1 ounce of sweet vermouth. Add the 1/2 ounce of cherry liqueur, which is the magical ingredient that transforms a traditional Manhattan into this luscious cherry delight. Finish with 2 to 3 dashes of Angostura bitters to add complexity.
Step 3: Stir and Chill
Stir the ingredients vigorously for about 30 seconds. This step chills the drink while diluting it just enough, melding the flavors into a perfectly balanced cocktail without any harsh edges.
Step 4: Strain and Serve
Strain the mixture into your chilled glass, making sure no ice shards sneak in. The clean, silky texture is part of what makes the Cherry Manhattan Recipe so special.
Step 5: Garnish Elegantly
Garnish with a luscious cocktail cherry placed gracefully in the drink. Adding a twist of orange peel is optional, but it brings a zesty aroma that lifts the cocktail beautifully.
How to Serve Cherry Manhattan Recipe
Garnishes
The classic cocktail cherry is a must-have for the Cherry Manhattan Recipe, offering both visual charm and a burst of sweetness with each bite. If you want to elevate it further, a carefully twisted strip of orange peel adds a sophisticated citrus note that harmonizes wonderfully with the drink’s flavor profile.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cherry Manhattan with savory bites to balance its sweetness and spice. Think along the lines of sharp cheeses like aged cheddar, spiced nuts, or charcuterie featuring smoky meats. These choices play off the whiskey’s warmth and the cherry’s fruitiness for an appealing combination.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, serve the Cherry Manhattan Recipe on the rocks in a lowball glass with a large ice cube to slow dilution. Alternatively, garnish with a skewer of brandied cherries. You can also rim the glass lightly with sugar for a subtly sweet contrast that complements the cherry liqueur’s notes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to make more than one Cherry Manhattan Recipe, storing the leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator is best. This keeps the flavors fresh for up to a day, though it’s ideal to enjoy the cocktail fresh for maximum impact.
Freezing
Freezing the Cherry Manhattan is not recommended as ice crystals and temperature shifts can alter the texture and flavor balance. For the best experience, prepare each cocktail individually to keep that smooth and velvety mouthfeel intact.
Reheating
Reheating this cocktail is a no-go since it’s designed to be served chilled. Warm versions would lose the refreshing and crisp character that makes the Cherry Manhattan Recipe so appealing.
FAQs
Can I use bourbon instead of rye whiskey?
Absolutely! While rye whiskey provides a spicier base, bourbon offers a sweeter, smoother alternative that works wonderfully with the cherry liqueur.
What type of cherry liqueur is best for this recipe?
Cherry Heering and Luxardo are fantastic choices known for their rich flavor and quality, but you can use any cherry liqueur you love to personalize the drink.
Is it okay to shake the Cherry Manhattan Recipe instead of stirring?
The traditional method is stirring to keep the texture silky, but you can shake it if you prefer a slightly more diluted, frothy texture. Just know it will change the character a bit.
Can I make a batch of Cherry Manhattans for a party?
Yes, you can mix the base ingredients in advance and keep it chilled. Add fresh ice and garnish just before serving for the best presentation and taste.
What can I substitute if I don’t have cocktail cherries?
If you don’t have Luxardo or similar cocktail cherries, fresh dark cherries or maraschino cherries work as a suitable alternative, though they offer a different sweetness level.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a well-made Cherry Manhattan Recipe that brings warmth, sweetness, and elegance all in one glass. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or impressing friends at your next gathering, this cocktail delivers charm and flavor that never disappoint. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your signature go-to—once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed a Manhattan without that delightful cherry twist.
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Cherry Manhattan Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
The Cherry Manhattan is a delicious twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, featuring rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and a splash of cherry liqueur for a rich, fruity depth. Perfectly balanced with Angostura bitters and garnished with a cocktail cherry and optional orange peel, this cocktail is ideal for an elegant, flavorful drink experience.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 ounces rye whiskey (or bourbon)
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- 1/2 ounce cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering or Luxardo)
- 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice
- Cocktail cherry (like Luxardo) for garnish
- Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Mixing Glass: Fill a mixing glass with ice to chill the glass and help properly cool the cocktail as you stir.
- Add Ingredients: Pour in 2 ounces of rye whiskey or bourbon, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, 1/2 ounce of cherry liqueur, and 2 to 3 dashes of Angostura bitters over the ice.
- Stir Cocktail: Stir the mixture well for about 30 seconds until the ingredients are well chilled and properly diluted, ensuring a smooth and balanced flavor.
- Strain Into Glass: Strain the chilled drink into a coupe or martini glass that has been pre-chilled to keep the cocktail cold longer.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a cocktail cherry and optionally add a twist of orange peel for aroma and added flavor, then serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, reduce the cherry liqueur to 1/4 ounce.
- You may serve this drink on the rocks in a lowball glass if preferred.
