Bourbon Cherry Cola Cocktail Recipe

When I’m after a drink that’s easy but still feels a little special, I just mix bourbon with cherry cola. The rich, oaky bourbon blends right into the sweet cola, and the cherry brings in a pop of fruitiness.

This cocktail really nails that balance between bold, sweet, and refreshing—all in one glass.

I appreciate how little effort it takes. Just a few ingredients and maybe two minutes, and suddenly, you’ve got something that tastes way more impressive than it should.

It’s casual enough for a solo night but honestly, it’s great for sharing with friends too.

You’ll find step-by-step instructions below, plus a rundown of what you’ll need and the flavors you can expect in every sip.

Bourbon Cherry Cola Cocktail Recipe

I love how this drink brings together the smooth bourbon, sweet cola, and those juicy cherries. It’s refreshing, but you still get that rich depth from the bourbon, and a splash of lime keeps things bright.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – I use this to mix up the bourbon, cherry juice, and lime juice evenly.
• Muddler – If I’m in the mood for extra fruitiness, I’ll crush a couple of cherries first.
• Jigger or measuring tool – I actually measure the bourbon and juices so the flavors stay balanced.
• Tall glass – A highball glass is my go-to; it fits the cola and ice perfectly.
• Bar spoon – I stir gently after adding cola, just to keep the fizz alive.
• Strainer – If I shake the base, this keeps the ice and cherry bits out of my glass.
• Ice cube tray – Big cubes or even frozen cherries work great to chill the drink without watering it down too fast.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 4 oz cola
• 1 oz cherry juice (from jarred cherries or bottled)
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• 2–3 maraschino cherries (plus more for garnish)
• Frozen cherries (optional, instead of ice)
• Ice cubes (if not using frozen cherries)

Sometimes I swap in maraschino cherry syrup for a sweeter kick. If I want less dilution, I’ll use frozen cherries instead of ice cubes.

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add bourbon, cherry juice, and lime juice.
• Shake just until it’s cold.
• Strain into a tall glass packed with ice or frozen cherries.
• Top off with cola, then stir gently with a bar spoon.
• Drop in a couple of maraschino cherries for garnish.
• Serve right away, while the cola’s still fizzy.

I always shake the base first to blend the flavors, but I make sure to add the cola last so it stays bubbly.

Notes

I usually reach for a mid-range bourbon with some vanilla and caramel notes; it just works with the cola and cherries. If you use a really smoky bourbon, it can totally take over the drink.

If I’m craving more cherry, I’ll muddle fresh or frozen cherries in the shaker before adding anything else. That gives it a vibe closer to a cherry bourbon cola smash.

Sometimes, if I want something lighter, I’ll use diet cola or just dial back the bourbon. When I’m making a batch for a group, I’ll prep the bourbon, lime, and cherry juice mix ahead, then add cola and garnish right before serving.

Tasting Notes

That first sip hits with a smooth mix of sweet cherry and rich bourbon. The cola really takes the edge off, so it goes down easy and doesn’t smack you with too much strength.

I get this warm, slightly smoky flavor from the bourbon that just hangs around after each sip. Honestly, the cherry syrup sneaks in a gentle fruitiness, but it never gets too loud.

Feels like the balance lands right where I want it. There’s sweetness, but it doesn’t get heavy, and the carbonation keeps everything light and a bit playful.

I catch a whisper of vanilla from the cola, which somehow blends with those oak notes in the bourbon. The cocktail ends up with this layered taste that shifts a little as I keep drinking.

If you serve it cold, the flavors stay crisp and refreshing. Once the ice starts melting, the drink smooths out and lightens up, and honestly, I like that just as much.