Cherry Cordials

Cherry Cordials

Ingredients:

  • 1 lemon
  • 1 pound of Sunrise Fresh Dried Cherries
  • 1 tablespoon cardamom pods (2 teaspoons of vanilla or almond extract can be used in place of the cardamom)
  • 1 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
  • 2 cups of distilled water
  • 2 cups raw cane sugar

Directions: 

  1. Grate a small amount of lemon peel into a bowl. Slice the lemon in half and squeeze the lemon juice into another bowl.
  2. Place the cherries in a large pot. Add lemon zest, cardamom pods, ginger, and finally the water.

  3. Once the mixture has come to a slight boil, turn down the heat to medium. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

  4. Place a mesh sieve over a bowl or large pitcher. Line the sieve with a cheesecloth. Pour the cherry mixture into the sieve so the fluid can drain through. Press the cherries with a pestle or wooden spoon to get as much of the juice as possible. Discard the cherries.
  5. Stir the sugar into the hot cherry juice. Stir until it is completely dissolved. Add the lemon juice and continue to mix.
  6. Pour into large bottles and seal. Store in the fridge for approximately six weeks. Six months if you place it in the freezer.
  7. When ready to serve, pour up to four tablespoons into a small glass and fill with sparkling water. If you prefer an adult beverage add two or three ounces of vodka.