Jenna Haley
The Cherry Bourbon Delight is a dessert-style cocktail that layers bold, rich flavors with creamy indulgence. Bourbon provides a warm, oaky foundation, while cherry liqueur adds deep fruit sweetness. A generous topping of homemade whipped cream creates a velvety finish that transforms the drink into something both comforting and decadent. The sprinkle of cinnamon enhances the aroma with a gentle spice that ties the flavors together beautifully. This cocktail is best enjoyed as a nightcap or served in place of dessert, offering a balance of spirit-forward character with a luxurious creamy topping.
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Tasting Notes
The Cherry Bourbon Delight is rich, smooth, and dessert-like while still carrying the strength of a classic spirit-forward cocktail. Bourbon provides a warm, oaky base with hints of vanilla and caramel, while cherry liqueur brings bright fruit sweetness that balances the depth of the whiskey. A topping of homemade whipped cream adds a velvety layer, transforming the drink into a treat that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. A dusting of cinnamon powder provides subtle spice and aroma, tying the flavors together. Each sip blends bourbon heat, cherry richness, and creamy sweetness for a cocktail that feels comforting and celebratory.
Equipment and Glassware
This Cherry Bourbon Delight requires both standard bar tools and a few extras for the whipped cream topping. A jigger ensures accurate measurement of the bourbon and cherry liqueur. A mixing spoon is used to stir the spirits over ice, chilling them and blending flavors. For the whipped cream, a shaker and handheld frother are necessary to achieve the fluffy texture. A fine strainer can be helpful if you prefer a cleaner pour for the whipped cream. The ideal serving vessel is an old-fashioned glass, which highlights the layered look of bourbon, cherry, and cream while accommodating a large ice cube.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 2 oz cherry liqueur
- 1.5 oz whipped cream
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder for garnish
Homemade Whipped Cream
Ingredients
- 4 oz heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon of confectioners sugar
- 1 dash of vanilla extract
- Add the heavy whipping cream, confectioners sugar, and vanilla extract to a shaker. Use a handheld frother to foam up the mixture until the desired consistency. The longer you froth it, the more fluffy it will become.
Instructions
- In an old-fashioned glass, place a large ice cube.
- Pour the bourbon and cherry liqueur over the ice.
- Stir the mixture well until it is thoroughly chilled and the flavors are well combined.
- Generously top the drink with whipped cream, creating a thick layer.
- For an optional garnish, sprinkle a little cinnamon powder on top of the whipped cream.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Cherry Bourbon Delight.
Pro Tips
- Use a bold bourbon to balance the sweetness of cherry liqueur.
- Froth the whipped cream longer for a thicker, dessert-like topping.
- Pre-chill your old-fashioned glass for a colder drink.
- Adjust cherry liqueur levels to control sweetness.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon for stronger aroma in the garnish.
- Large ice cubes work best to slow dilution while chilling.
- For extra presentation, pipe the whipped cream instead of spooning it.
- Swap cherry liqueur for kirsch if you prefer a drier fruit note.
When to Serve
The Cherry Bourbon Delight is a rich cocktail that doubles as both a drink and a dessert, making it a perfect choice for after-dinner enjoyment. Its bold bourbon base brings warmth and depth, while cherry liqueur adds a sweet, fruity flavor that balances the strength of the spirit. A topping of whipped cream makes it smooth and creamy, and a sprinkle of cinnamon adds a gentle spice that ties everything together. This cocktail feels festive and memorable, ideal for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or even a romantic night at home. It is versatile, flavorful, and always leaves a lasting impression.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon: Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, Bulleit
- Cherry Liqueur: Heering Cherry, Luxardo Cherry Sangue Morlacco, DeKuyper Cherry Brandy
Similar Cocktails
- Pecan Bourbon Old Fashioned
- Spicy Bourbon Pumpkin Smash
- Pecan Pie Martini
- Bourbon Autumn Rickey
- Caramel Apple Manhattan
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 2 oz cherry liqueur
- 1.5 oz whipped cream
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder for garnish
Homemade Whipped Cream:
- 4 oz heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon of confectioners sugar
- 1 dash of vanilla extract
Instructions
Homemade Whipped Cream:
- Add the heavy whipping cream, confectioners sugar, and vanilla extract to a shaker. Use a handheld frother to foam up the mixture until the desired consistency. The longer you froth it, the more fluffy it will become.
Cocktail:
- In an old-fashioned glass, place a large ice cube.
- Pour the bourbon and cherry liqueur over the ice.
- Stir the mixture well until it is thoroughly chilled and the flavors are well combined.
- Generously top the drink with whipped cream, creating a thick layer.
- For an optional garnish, sprinkle a little cinnamon powder on top of the whipped cream.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Cherry Bourbon Delight.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, infuse the whipped cream with a hint of bourbon before frothing.
- Use high-quality cherry liqueur to balance sweetness with depth.
- Freshly whipped cream works best, but you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
