Jasmine Cherry Cocktails: Your Ultimate Guide to Delicious Recipes

Jasmine Cherry Cocktails: Prepare to be transported to a world of floral aromas and sweet, fruity bliss with this exquisite concoction! Imagine the delicate fragrance of jasmine mingling with the juicy burst of ripe cherries, all perfectly balanced in a refreshing cocktail. It’s not just a drink; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of combining jasmine and cherry in cocktails are somewhat modern, the individual ingredients boast rich histories. Jasmine tea, for instance, has been enjoyed in China for centuries, prized for its calming properties and intoxicating scent. Cherries, on the other hand, have been cultivated since ancient times, with evidence suggesting their use in Roman feasts and medieval desserts. This jasmine cherry cocktail brings together these two timeless ingredients in a harmonious blend.

What makes this cocktail so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors. The floral notes of jasmine tea provide a sophisticated counterpoint to the sweetness of the cherries, preventing the drink from becoming cloying. The addition of a spirit like gin or vodka adds a subtle kick, while a splash of citrus brightens the overall profile. Whether you’re hosting a summer garden party or simply unwinding after a long day, these jasmine cherry cocktails are guaranteed to impress. The vibrant color and elegant presentation also make them a feast for the eyes, adding a touch of sophistication to any occasion. I know you will love this recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup Jasmine tea concentrate (strong brewed Jasmine tea, cooled)
• 1 bottle (750ml) chilled Prosecco or other sparkling wine
• Ice cubes
• Fresh Jasmine flowers or cherry blossoms for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Cherry Syrup:

This homemade cherry syrup is the heart of our Jasmine Cherry Cocktail. It’s easy to make and adds a burst of fresh cherry flavor that you just can’t get from store-bought syrups. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness to your liking!

1. Combine Cherries, Sugar, and Water: In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and water. Make sure the cherries are mostly covered by the water. If using frozen cherries, no need to thaw them first.
2. Simmer the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Cook Until Cherries Soften: Continue to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cherries are soft and have released their juices. The mixture should thicken slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when the cherries are easily mashed with the back of a spoon.
4. Mash the Cherries: Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, gently mash the cherries in the saucepan. This will help release even more flavor and create a richer syrup. Don’t worry about getting it perfectly smooth; a little texture is perfectly fine.
5. Strain the Syrup: Place a fine-mesh sieve over a heatproof bowl. Pour the cherry mixture through the sieve, pressing down on the solids with a spoon to extract as much syrup as possible. Discard the solids (or save them for another use, like adding to oatmeal or yogurt!).
6. Cool the Syrup: Let the cherry syrup cool completely before using it in your cocktails. This will prevent it from melting the ice and diluting your drink. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the bowl in an ice bath.
7. Store the Syrup: Once cooled, transfer the cherry syrup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This syrup is also fantastic drizzled over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream!

Brewing the Jasmine Tea Concentrate:

The Jasmine tea concentrate adds a delicate floral note that complements the cherry flavor beautifully. It’s important to brew the tea strong so that the flavor doesn’t get lost in the cocktail. I like to use loose leaf Jasmine tea for the best flavor, but tea bags will work in a pinch.

1. Heat Water: Bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
2. Steep the Tea: Place 2-3 tablespoons of loose leaf Jasmine tea (or 4-6 Jasmine tea bags) in a heatproof teapot or container. Pour the boiling water over the tea leaves or tea bags.
3. Steep for 5-7 Minutes: Let the tea steep for 5-7 minutes, or according to the package instructions. The longer you steep it, the stronger the flavor will be. Be careful not to over-steep, as this can make the tea bitter.
4. Strain the Tea: Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the tea leaves or tea bags.
5. Cool the Tea: Let the tea concentrate cool completely before using it in your cocktails. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the container in an ice bath.
6. Store the Tea: Once cooled, transfer the Jasmine tea concentrate to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Assembling the Jasmine Cherry Cocktail:

Now for the fun part! This is where we bring all the elements together to create our delicious Jasmine Cherry Cocktail. Feel free to adjust the amounts of each ingredient to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, add more cherry syrup. If you like it more tart, add more lime juice.

1. Prepare Your Glasses: Chill your cocktail glasses in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will help keep your cocktails cold and refreshing.
2. Add Ice: Fill each glass with ice cubes.
3. Add Cherry Syrup: Pour 1-2 tablespoons of cherry syrup into each glass, depending on your preference for sweetness.
4. Add Lime Juice: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice to each glass.
5. Add Jasmine Tea Concentrate: Add 1 tablespoon of Jasmine tea concentrate to each glass.
6. Top with Prosecco: Top each glass with chilled Prosecco or other sparkling wine. Fill the glass almost to the top, leaving a little room for the garnish.
7. Garnish: Garnish each cocktail with fresh Jasmine flowers or cherry blossoms (if using) and a lime wedge.
8. Stir Gently: Gently stir the cocktail to combine the ingredients. Be careful not to stir too vigorously, as this will cause the Prosecco to lose its fizz.
9. Serve Immediately: Serve your Jasmine Cherry Cocktails immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize your Jasmine Cherry Cocktail to your liking:

• Use Different Sparkling Wine: If you don’t have Prosecco on hand, you can use other sparkling wines like Cava or Champagne. Just make sure it’s well-chilled.
• Add a Splash of Vodka or Gin: For a stronger cocktail, add a splash of vodka or gin to each glass before topping with Prosecco.
• Make it Non-Alcoholic: For a non-alcoholic version, replace the Prosecco with sparkling water or club soda. You can also add a splash of white grape juice for extra sweetness.
• Use Different Fruit: If you don’t have cherries, you can use other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries. Just adjust the cooking time for the syrup accordingly.
• Add Herbs: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like mint or basil to your cocktail. Muddle the herbs gently before adding the other ingredients.
• Make a Large Batch: If you’re hosting a party, you can easily make a large batch of this cocktail by multiplying the ingredients accordingly. Just be sure to add the Prosecco right before serving to keep it fizzy.
• Freeze Cherry Syrup into Ice Cubes: For an extra touch, freeze the cherry syrup into ice cubes. This will add a burst of cherry flavor as the ice melts.
• Rim the Glasses: For a festive touch, rim the glasses with sugar before adding the cocktail. To do this, wet the rim of the glass with a lime wedge and then dip it in a plate of sugar.

Pairing Suggestions:

This Jasmine Cherry Cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening. It also pairs well with a variety of foods, including:

• Appetizers: Cheese and crackers, bruschetta, or fruit skewers.
• Salads: Light and refreshing salads with vinaigrette dressing.
• Desserts: Chocolate cake, cheesecake, or fruit tarts.
• Brunch: This cocktail is a great addition to any brunch spread.

Enjoying Your Cocktail:

Now that you’ve made your Jasmine Cherry Cocktail, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy! This cocktail is perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply unwinding after a long day. Cheers!

Conclusion:

This Jasmine Cherry Cocktail isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. The delicate floral notes of jasmine tea perfectly complement the sweet and slightly tart cherries, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s so much more than just mixing ingredients; it’s about crafting a moment of pure indulgence. The subtle complexity makes it sophisticated enough for a special occasion, yet the ease of preparation means you can enjoy it any time you crave a little bit of luxury.

But don’t just take my word for it! The real magic happens when you make it your own. Feel free to experiment with different types of cherries. Rainier cherries will lend an even sweeter note, while Bing cherries will offer a deeper, richer flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of cherry liqueur for an extra boozy kick.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

For a truly elegant presentation, serve your Jasmine Cherry Cocktail in chilled coupe glasses, garnished with a fresh cherry and a sprig of mint. You can also rim the glasses with sugar for a touch of sweetness and sparkle. If you’re hosting a larger gathering, consider making a batch of the cocktail base ahead of time and then adding the sparkling wine or club soda just before serving to maintain its fizz.

Looking for non-alcoholic options? No problem! Simply substitute the sparkling wine with sparkling cider or ginger ale. You can also create a refreshing mocktail by muddling fresh cherries with a bit of sugar and lime juice, then topping it off with jasmine tea and sparkling water.

Another fun variation is to infuse your own jasmine simple syrup. Just combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, add a handful of dried jasmine flowers, and simmer until the sugar is dissolved. Let it steep for about 30 minutes, then strain out the flowers and store the syrup in the refrigerator. This will add an even more intense jasmine flavor to your cocktail.

For a winter twist, consider using cherry preserves instead of fresh cherries. The preserves will add a deeper, more concentrated flavor and a touch of warmth to the cocktail. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive touch.

I’ve even experimented with adding a few drops of almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor. It’s a subtle addition, but it really elevates the overall taste.

Ultimately, the best way to enjoy this Jasmine Cherry Cocktail is to make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and techniques until you find the perfect combination that suits your taste.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a truly unforgettable cocktail experience. I’m confident that this recipe will become a new favorite in your repertoire.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve had a chance to whip up your own batch of this delightful Jasmine Cherry Cocktail, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Let’s create a community of cocktail enthusiasts and inspire each other to explore the endless possibilities of mixology! Cheers to happy sipping!