If you’re looking for a quick, tasty drink, this Boozy Black Cherry Cocktail is honestly one of my go-tos. You only need three simple ingredients to whip up a refreshing cocktail in just a few minutes.
There’s something about that black cherry flavor—it really pops, but it’s not overwhelming or syrupy. Whether I’m hosting friends or just winding down solo, this recipe just fits.
It’s an easy one to pull together when you want something fruity and fun but don’t feel like fussing around.
Boozy Black Cherry Cocktail Recipe (3-Ingredient Only)
This black cherry cocktail only needs three ingredients. With a couple of basic tools and a few quick steps, you’ve got a flavorful drink at home—no bartending degree required.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker: Helps mix and chill everything fast.
- Measuring jigger: Makes it easy to get the vodka and cherry juice just right.
- Strainer: Keeps ice out of the glass when pouring.
- Rocks glass or coupe glass: Either one works, honestly.
- Spoon: Good for stirring or dropping in a maraschino cherry.
- Ice cubes: Can’t really skip these.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka (I usually go for unflavored, but any smooth brand is fine)
- 3 oz black cherry juice (sweetened or unsweetened—depends if I’m feeling tart or want it sweeter)
- 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish and a little extra cherry kick)
All of these are easy to grab at most grocery stores. If I want a sweeter drink, I use sweetened juice. For something more tart, unsweetened does the trick.
Instructions
Sometimes I’ll just stir instead of shaking, especially if I want it less frothy. The whole thing takes maybe five minutes, tops. No complicated prep, just a few steps and you’re done.
Notes
You can swap vodka for gin or white rum if you want to change things up. Sometimes I add a splash of club soda for a bit of fizz.
Tart cherry juice keeps it less sweet, while sweetened juice makes it feel more like dessert. I usually stick with a single maraschino cherry as garnish, but a lemon twist isn’t a bad idea if you want to cut the sweetness a bit.
Honestly, I rarely use more than three ingredients for these cocktails. It’s just easier, and less cleanup.
Equipment
- Spoon or stirrer
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka unflavored or cherry-infused
- 3 oz black cherry juice sweetened or unsweetened
- 1 maraschino cherry for garnish
- Ice for shaking and serving
Instructions
- Fill your cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add 2 oz vodka and 3 oz black cherry juice.
- Shake well for about 20 seconds.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry. Serve immediately.
Tasting Notes
First sip—there’s that sweet black cherry hit. It’s bold, but not overpowering, and there’s a little tartness that keeps things from getting too sugary.
As it goes down, you get a bit of warmth from the vodka. It’s smooth, and the cherry flavor just kind of lingers in a nice way.
Here’s what I usually notice:
- Sweet black cherries
- A hint of tartness
- Subtle alcohol warmth
If I use sparkling water, it gets a little fizzy, which is super refreshing. Extra ice never hurts, especially in the summer.
Honestly, if I close my eyes, I can imagine sitting poolside with this in hand. It’s light, not heavy or cloying.
The flavors just work. The cherry is front and center, but nothing else tries to steal the show.
Substitute
Sometimes I just don’t have everything I need for a boozy black cherry cocktail. So, I get creative with what’s on hand.
Ingredient Swaps:
- If I’m out of black cherry juice, I’ll reach for pomegranate or even cranberry juice. Both bring that tart kick.
- As for the liquor, I’ll swap in vodka, gin, or rum. Each one changes things up in its own way.
- No flavored soda? I just mix club soda with a splash of simple syrup and squeeze in some fresh lemon juice. It’s not fancy, but it works.
Extra Garnish Ideas:
- I’ll usually toss in a fresh cherry or a lemon wheel on top.
- Sometimes I add a sprig of mint—just for that pop of color and a hint of fresh aroma.
Quick Equipment List:
Fast Instructions List:
