How to Make Moonshine Cherries at Home: Sweet, Boozy & Simple

how to make moonshine cherries

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Introduction

Welcome to our in-depth guide on moonshine cherries! In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of moonshine cherries, including what they are, how to make them, essential tips for perfecting your recipe, safety precautions, and a compelling conclusion for moonshine enthusiasts. If you’re intrigued by the mystique and charm of moonshine, you’re in for a delightful journey as we uncover the artistry and cultural significance of these delightful concoctions.Moonshine cherries are a beloved Southern treat that blends juicy fruit with a bold alcohol kick — and in this guide, you’ll learn how to make your own delicious moonshine cherries from scratch, including two flavor-packed recipes, storage tips, and creative uses!

What Are Moonshine Cherries?

Moonshine cherries, also known as moonshine-soaked cherries or cherry bombs, are a delightful twist on the classic cherry treat. These irresistible gems are cherries that have been soaked in moonshine, infusing them with a potent kick and a delightful burst of flavor. The combination of the sweet, juicy cherries with the bold, fiery essence of moonshine creates a captivating harmony that tantalizes the taste buds. This unique infusion process transforms ordinary cherries into extraordinary delights that are perfect for savoring on their own, as part of decadent desserts, or as a lively addition to cocktails and mocktails.

  • Moonshine cherries are a popular delicacy that originated in the southern United States, where moonshine production has a rich history.
  • The process of making moonshine cherries involves selecting the finest cherries, preferably with stems intact, and carefully immersing them in high-quality moonshine.
  • These moonshine-soaked cherries can be enjoyed in various ways, such as using them as a garnish for beverages, incorporating them into creative recipes, or enjoying them straight out of the jar for a delightful burst of flavor.

Moonshine Cherries Recipe

Creating your own batch of moonshine cherries is a rewarding and exhilarating process that brings together the art of moonshine infusion and the vibrant essence of ripe cherries. To make moonshine cherries, you’ll need a jar of fresh, plump cherries and a high-quality moonshine of your choice. The process involves carefully infusing the cherries with moonshine to create a symphony of flavors. Below is a simple yet effective moonshine cherries recipe that will elevate your moonshine experience to new heights:

how to use moonshine infused cherries

🌶️ Firecracker Moonshine Cherries

Sweet heat meets boozy bite — perfect for party shots or spicy cocktails.

🔧 Materials & Equipment

🍒 Ingredients

🔥 Directions

  1. Prep the Cherries: Wash and dry the cherries. Keep the stems on for a classic look, or remove and pit them if you prefer.
  2. Make the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, chili flakes, ginger, cinnamon, and lemon zest. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. Jar It Up: Divide cherries into your sterilized jars. Pour the warm syrup over the cherries (you can include the chili and ginger bits for extra flavor).
  4. Add the Moonshine: Top each jar with moonshine until the cherries are completely covered, leaving about ½ inch of headspace.
  5. Seal & Infuse: Wipe the jar rims, seal tightly, and give them a gentle shake. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week, but ideally 3–4 weeks. Shake every few days to keep everything mixed.

 

🍫 Black Forest Buzz Cherries

Luxurious and rich — like dessert in a jar, with a wicked edge.

🔧 Materials & Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Mason jars (2–4 pint-sized, sterilized)
  • Funnel
  • Microplane or grater (for chocolate)

🍒 Ingredients

  • 2 pounds fresh dark cherries (pitted, or stem-on if you prefer presentation over convenience)
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but delicious)
  • 2 cups high-proof moonshine or dark rum (for a deeper, dessert-like note)
  • 2 tablespoons dark chocolate shavings (optional, added before sealing the jars)

🍫 Directions

  1. Prepare Cherries: Rinse and pit the cherries. Set aside in a large bowl.
  2. Make Chocolate Syrup: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Heat gently and stir until everything dissolves into a smooth, dark syrup. Let it cool slightly.
  3. Fill the Jars: Add cherries to the jars until they’re about ¾ full. Pour in the warm cocoa syrup.
  4. Add the Alcohol: Pour moonshine or rum into each jar to completely cover the cherries. Top with dark chocolate shavings for an indulgent twist.
  5. Seal & Store: Close jars tightly, shake gently, and label with the date. Store in a cool, dark place for 10 days to 4 weeks for best flavor.

Tips for Making Perfect Moonshine Cherries

Creating the perfect moonshine cherries requires attention to detail and a thoughtful approach to infusion. Here are some expert tips to elevate your moonshine cherry game:

  1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, ripe cherries at their peak and select a high-quality moonshine as the base for your infusion, ensuring a superior end product.
  2. Control the Infusion Duration: Experiment with infusion periods, ranging from a few days to several weeks, to discover the ideal balance of flavor, aroma, and potency in your moonshine cherries.
  3. Adjust Sugar Levels: Tailor the sweetness of your moonshine cherries by carefully adjusting the sugar content to suit your personal taste preferences, ensuring a delightful and customized flavor profile.
  4. Enhance with Flavors: Elevate the taste profile of your moonshine cherries by introducing complementary flavors such as vanilla, cinnamon, or citrus zest, taking your infusion to the next level of complexity and enjoyment.
  5. Storage & Aging: After the infusion process, store your cherries in a cool, dark place to allow them to mature over time. This aging process enhances the depth of flavor, resulting in a truly exceptional moonshine cherry experience.
  6. Experiment with Different Varieties: Explore the possibilities by experimenting with different cherry varieties such as sweet, tart, or wild cherries, each providing a unique dimension to your infused moonshine cherries.
  7. Infusion Vessel Selection: Choose the right vessel for infusing your cherries, considering options such as mason jars or ceramic containers, each imparting its own influence on the final flavor and character of the infused cherries.
  8. Labeling and Dating: Maintain a record of the infusing process by labeling your jars with the start date and type of cherries used. This practice ensures that you can track the aging process and savor the distinct qualities of each batch.

Safety Precautions

While creating moonshine cherries can be an exciting culinary adventure, it’s crucial to keep safety precautions in mind to ensure a responsible and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential safety guidelines:

  • Regulatory Compliance: Adhere to local regulations and laws regarding the production, consumption, and distribution of moonshine and infused products.
  • Storage & Labeling: Properly label and store your moonshine cherries to prevent accidental consumption by minors or unaware individuals.
  • Responsible Consumption: Enjoy moonshine cherries responsibly and encourage moderate consumption to appreciate their captivating flavors.
  • Legal Consideration: Be mindful of the legal implications of producing and sharing moonshine cherries within your region.
  • Use of Quality Ingredients: Ensure that the ingredients used in the making of moonshine cherries are of high quality and are safe for consumption.
  • Proper Equipment Maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain the equipment used in the production of moonshine cherries to ensure safety and quality.
  • Understanding Alcohol Content: Be knowledgeable about the alcohol content in moonshine cherries and its effects to prevent overconsumption.

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of moonshine cherries, we hope that you’ve gained valuable insights into the world of moonshine, infusion techniques, and the delightful allure of moonshine-soaked cherries. Whether you’re a seasoned moonshine enthusiast or a curious novice, the journey of creating, savoring, and appreciating moonshine cherries encompasses a rich tapestry of flavors, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. Embrace this delightful fusion of tradition and innovation, and let the spirit of moonshine cherries ignite your passion for crafting, sharing, and indulging in exceptional culinary experiences.