The Cherrycola is a simple but underrated long drink that impresses with the right balance of fruity sweetness and tangy acidity. Instead of just mixing Cherry Brandy and cola, a dash of lemon adds freshness and prevents the drink from becoming too sticky. Perfect for warm evenings when you need something quick but still want to taste the flavor. Here’s how to prepare the basic recipe so that it works even without bar experience.
Here’s what you need for the Cherrycola
4 cl Cherry Brandy
2 cl freshly squeezed lemon juice
120 ml cola (chilled)
crushed ice cubes (approx. 1 cup)
1 lemon slice (for garnish)
The key is in the timing
The trick is all about timing: add the cola *after* the liqueur and lemon juice. If you pour it directly onto the ice, a separate layer forms on top that tastes too sweet. By pre-mixing the liquid ingredients, you create a uniform, balanced sweetness-to-acidity ratio. For an even more precise result, you can chill the cola in the freezer beforehand – this keeps the carbonation longer and makes the drink fizz more intensely.
Variations
- Spicy Cherrycola — Press a thin slice of fresh ginger (approx. 2 mm thick) lightly with the back of a spoon and let it steep in the glass for 30 seconds before adding the cola. Adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
- Cherrycola Fizz — Use 60 ml soda water and 60 ml cherry juice (100% fruit) instead of cola. The result is a lighter, less sweet variation with more fruit aroma.
- Dark Cherrycola — Mix 1 cl dark rum (brown rum) with the Cherry Brandy. Pairs especially well with vanilla-flavored cola and adds more depth to the drink.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different liqueur instead of Cherry Brandy?
Yes, but the flavor will change significantly. Cherry liqueur based on brandy has a natural acidity and fruit depth that other liqueurs like Maraschino or Amaretto do not provide. If you’re experimenting: reduce the cola slightly to balance the sweetness.
Why does my Cherrycola sometimes taste flat?
This is usually due to the ice. If the ice is too small or has been in the glass too long, it melts too quickly and dilutes the drink. Use large, fresh ice cubes and fill the glass only shortly before mixing. Alternatively: chill the glass with ice beforehand and discard the melted water.
Can I replace the cola with a different lemonade?
Sure, but cola has a unique combination of sweetness, acidity, and bitterness (from phosphoric acid) that perfectly complements the Cherry Brandy. With lemonade, the drink becomes fruitier, with ginger ale it becomes more herbal. Give it a try – but adjust the amount, as other lemonades are often sweeter.
