We’ve always been fans of how fresh cherries and bold bourbon unite to create a sauce that’s both tangy and warming. This American-inspired delight draws from seasonal fruits and spirited traditions making it perfect for elevating grilled meats or decadent desserts.
It’s a simple yet sophisticated recipe we’ll guide you through with ease. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or spicing up weeknight dinners our Cherry Bourbon Sauce adds that irresistible flair you didn’t know you needed.
Ingredients
To bring our vibrant Cherry Bourbon Sauce to life, we gather these essential ingredients, carefully selected for their fresh flavors and harmonious blend that captures the tangy sweetness of cherries with the warm depth of bourbon.
Below is a detailed list of ingredients, ordered as they are typically used in preparation. We’ve bolded key terms for emphasis and included prep specifics in italics to ensure accuracy and ease.
- Fresh cherries: 2 cups, pitted and halved – These form the base, providing juicy, tart bursts that define the sauce’s fresh appeal.
- Bourbon: ½ cup – Select a smooth variety for its rich, warming notes that elevate the sauce’s sophisticated flavor.
- Granulated sugar: ¼ cup – Added next to balance the cherries’ tartness and create a syrupy consistency.
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed – Introduces a bright acidity to enhance the overall tang and preserve the fruit’s natural vibrancy.
- Water: ½ cup – Used to create the initial liquid base, helping to dissolve sugars and extract flavors from the cherries.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon, mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry – This thickening agent comes last in prep to achieve the perfect glossy finish without altering the taste.
For nutritional insights, we’ve compiled the approximate values per serving (based on 4 servings) in the table below:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 | 6% |
| Total Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Carbohydrates | 28g | 10% |
| Sugars | 24g | N/A |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our irresistible Cherry Bourbon Sauce, we need a few essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient. These items help us handle the fresh cherries, blend flavors seamlessly, and achieve the perfect tangy, warming consistency without any hassle.
Here’s a detailed list of the equipment we’ll use, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Medium Saucepan: This is our go-to for simmering the cherries, bourbon, and other ingredients to create that rich, glossy sauce. Opt for a non-stick version to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the mixture as it cooks, preserving the vibrant flavors of the Cherry Bourbon Sauce while avoiding scratches on the pan.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key for balancing the sweet and tart notes, so we rely on these to measure out ingredients like sugar, water, and bourbon precisely.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: We’ll use these to pit and chop the fresh cherries quickly, ensuring they’re ready to release their juicy essence into the sauce.
- Fine-Mesh Strainer: If we want a smoother finish, this tool helps us strain out any cherry pits or pulp, resulting in a refined texture that elevates our Cherry Bourbon Sauce for both savory and sweet dishes.
With this equipment in hand, we’re all set to move from our ingredient prep to the cooking steps, making the entire process straightforward and enjoyable.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh cherries, bourbon, and other essentials, let’s guide you through crafting our irresistible Cherry Bourbon Sauce. We’ll break it down into simple, precise steps to ensure a flavorful result every time.
Prep
Before we start cooking, prepare your ingredients to set the stage for a smooth process. Begin by rinsing 2 cups of fresh cherries under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Using a sharp knife and cutting board, pit the cherries by slicing them in half and removing the pits—this yields about 1.5 cups of prepared cherries, ensuring they blend seamlessly into the sauce. Next, measure out 1/2 cup of bourbon, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, placing each in separate bowls for easy access. This preparation step is crucial as it allows the vibrant, tart flavors of the cherries to shine while the bourbon adds its warming depth.
Cook
With ingredients prepped, heat a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the prepared cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon for about 5 minutes until the mixture begins to simmer and the cherries release their juicy, ruby-red juices—inhale the fresh, fruity aroma mingling with subtle citrus notes for a sensory delight. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and gradually pour in the bourbon, stirring to incorporate it fully and prevent any splashes. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then add it to the pan and stir for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, spoon-coating consistency. Taste as you go to adjust sweetness or tartness, savoring the rich, boozy warmth that elevates the cherries’ natural tang.
Cool and Store
After cooking, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool in the pan for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the heat to dissipate—notice how the sauce’s vibrant color deepens and its aroma becomes even more inviting. For a smoother texture, strain the sauce through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean jar or container, pressing gently with the back of a spoon to extract all the essence. Once cooled completely to room temperature, store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze it in portions for up to 3 months to preserve its fresh, bold taste for later use.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We understand that life gets busy, so preparing our Cherry Bourbon Sauce in advance is a game-changer for enhancing meals without last-minute hassle. This method not only saves time but also allows the rich, tangy flavors of fresh cherries and bourbon to deepen and harmonize, making the sauce even more irresistible for your next barbecue or dinner party.
Steps for Making Ahead
Follow these simple, step-by-step guidelines to prepare and store our Cherry Bourbon Sauce ahead of time:
- Cool the Sauce Completely: After cooking, transfer the sauce to a heatproof bowl and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This prevents condensation, which could dilute the bold, warming bourbon notes and affect texture.
- Portion for Convenience: Divide the cooled sauce into smaller, airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. We recommend portions of 1/2 cup each for easy thawing and use, ensuring you can grab just what you need without wasting any of this luxurious cherry-infused delight.
- Refrigerate for Short-Term Storage: Place the containers in the refrigerator. The sauce will maintain its vibrant, glossy appearance and fresh taste for up to 1 week. Stir gently before using to revive the silky consistency and aromatic bourbon kick.
- Freeze for Long-Term Storage: For extended preservation, label the containers with the date and freeze them. Freezing locks in the sauce’s sweet-tart cherry essence and smooth bourbon warmth, keeping it fresh for future occasions.
Storage Tips and Duration
To help you plan effectively, we’ve outlined the key storage details in the table below. This ensures our Cherry Bourbon Sauce stays at its peak quality.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 week | Store in an airtight container; use within 7 days for optimal flavor and to prevent any loss of the sauce’s glossy sheen. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator; reheat gently on the stove to preserve the rich, fruity depth without altering the texture. |
Remember, always check for signs of spoilage, like off odors or mold, before using. With these make-ahead strategies, we empower you to elevate your dishes effortlessly while savoring the sophisticated allure of our Cherry Bourbon Sauce.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cherry Bourbon Sauce recipe as it brings a touch of elegance to your table.
It’s more than just a sauce—it’s a way to infuse meals with warmth and sophistication.
Give it a try and let it spark your next gathering with its irresistible charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cherry Bourbon Sauce?
Cherry Bourbon Sauce is a tangy, warming condiment made from fresh cherries and bourbon. It’s versatile for enhancing grilled meats, desserts, or meals, with American-inspired flavors that add a sophisticated touch to summer barbecues or everyday dinners. This simple recipe combines fruity sweetness with a rich, boozy depth for an irresistible finish.
What ingredients are needed for Cherry Bourbon Sauce?
The key ingredients include fresh cherries as the base, bourbon for depth, granulated sugar for sweetness, lemon juice for tang, water for consistency, and cornstarch as a thickener. Each is selected for fresh, harmonious flavors, making the sauce easy to prepare and full of taste. Measure accurately for the best results.
How do I make Cherry Bourbon Sauce?
Start by rinsing and pitting fresh cherries. Simmer them with sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Add bourbon and a cornstarch slurry to thicken, then cook until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Cool completely before using or storing. The whole process takes about 20-30 minutes and yields a flavorful sauce.
What equipment is required to prepare Cherry Bourbon Sauce?
You’ll need a medium saucepan for simmering, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a sharp knife and cutting board for prepping cherries, and a fine-mesh strainer for a smooth texture. These basic tools ensure an efficient cooking process.
Is Cherry Bourbon Sauce nutritious?
Per serving, it offers antioxidants from fresh cherries, some fiber, and minimal calories from sugar and bourbon. It’s not a low-calorie option but provides natural vitamins. Nutritional values vary based on portion size, so enjoy in moderation as a flavorful enhancement rather than a health food.
Can I make Cherry Bourbon Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it in advance for convenience. Cook the sauce, cool it completely, then portion into containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. This allows you to add flavor to meals without last-minute prep, maintaining its quality easily.
How should I store Cherry Bourbon Sauce?
After cooling, transfer the sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to a week to keep it fresh, or freeze in portions for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before use and stir if needed. Proper storage preserves the tangy, bourbon-rich flavors for your next gathering.