Cherry Shrub Recipe: Refreshing Drink for Summer Sips

Cherry shrubs are a delightful way to capture the vibrant flavor of fresh cherries in a tangy, refreshing syrup that can be used to create delicious beverages and cocktails. This traditional drink mixer dates back to colonial America, where vinegar was used to preserve fruit before refrigeration.

Today, cherry shrubs have made a comeback for their unique balance of sweet, sour, and fruity notes that brighten up any drink. Whether you’re looking to jazz up sparkling water, mix a lively cocktail, or add a splash of flavor to your mocktails, a homemade cherry shrub is your secret weapon.

Making your own cherry shrub is simple, and the process allows you to control the sweetness and acidity, tailoring it perfectly to your taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up an abundance of cherries in season.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a detailed cherry shrub recipe, share tips for variations, and even suggest serving ideas. Ready to elevate your drinks?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cherry shrub recipe is a versatile and straightforward way to enjoy cherries all year round. It balances the natural sweetness of cherries with the tang of vinegar, creating a complex flavor that brightens any beverage.

Unlike store-bought syrups loaded with preservatives and artificial flavors, this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients.

Once made, your cherry shrub can be stored in the refrigerator for weeks, making it a handy ingredient to have on hand for summer parties or cozy winter cocktails. Plus, it’s a fun project for anyone interested in traditional food preservation techniques or looking for a refreshing new drink base.

If you love experimenting with flavors, this shrub syrup is an excellent canvas for adding spices or herbs, making it a creative addition to your homemade drink repertoire.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cherries (pitted and halved)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar for a milder flavor)
• Optional: 1 cinnamon stick or 3-4 fresh mint leaves for infusion

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid for storage
• Spoon or spatula for stirring
• Funnel (optional, for bottling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cherries: Wash, pit, and halve the fresh cherries. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add sugar: Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the cherries. Use a spoon or your hands to gently mash the cherries, releasing their juice. This helps the sugar dissolve and extract flavor. Let the mixture sit covered at room temperature for about 24 hours to macerate.
3. Strain the mixture: After maceration, pour the cherry and sugar mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl. Press or squeeze gently to extract as much juice as possible, discarding the solids.
4. Add vinegar and optional flavorings: Stir in the apple cider vinegar and, if desired, add a cinnamon stick or fresh mint leaves for extra aroma and flavor.
5. Age the shrub: Transfer the liquid to a clean glass jar or bottle and seal tightly. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 3 days, but ideally up to 1 week. This aging process mellows the vinegar’s sharpness and blends the flavors.
6. Remove optional flavorings: After aging, remove the cinnamon stick or mint leaves. Your cherry shrub syrup is now ready to use!

Tips & Variations

“For a spiced shrub, add cloves or star anise during the aging phase. If you prefer a sweeter shrub, increase the sugar to 1 ¼ cups.”

Feel free to experiment with different types of vinegar; raspberry or red wine vinegar can add depth and complexity. For a bubbly twist, mix your cherry shrub with sparkling water and garnish with fresh cherries and mint.

Want a boozy version? Use the shrub as a base for cocktails by combining it with gin, vodka, or bourbon.

You can also infuse the shrub with herbs like rosemary or basil to create unique flavor profiles.

If fresh cherries aren’t in season, frozen cherries work well too—just thaw and drain excess liquid before starting.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Cherry shrub syrup is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

• Mix 2-3 tablespoons with sparkling water for a refreshing, non-alcoholic soda.
• Add to cocktails such as a cherry shrub mule or shrub negroni for a tangy twist.
• Drizzle over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a fruity tang.
• Use as a salad dressing base by whisking it with olive oil and mustard.
• Combine with iced tea or lemonade for a flavorful summer cooler.

For more delicious and easy homemade syrups and drink recipes, check out our vegan mayo recipe for creamy dressings, or explore berry cobbler vegan recipes for sweet treats to pair with your shrub drinks.

If you’re interested in making savory dishes to go alongside, try the Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Conclusion

Crafting your own cherry shrub syrup is a rewarding and enjoyable experience that brings a burst of fresh, tangy flavor to your kitchen. This recipe is simple and adaptable, perfect for beginners and experienced home cooks alike.

With just a few ingredients, you can preserve the essence of summer cherries and elevate your beverages with a unique, homemade touch.

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking to refresh your daily drinks, a cherry shrub adds a special twist that’s both nostalgic and modern. Plus, it’s a great entry point into the world of shrubs and vinegar-based syrups, opening up possibilities for endless flavor combinations.

So gather your cherries, get stirring, and enjoy the vibrant taste of this traditional favorite all year round!

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