Chocolate Covered Cherry Moonshine: A Sweet Sip of Nostalgia

My grandmother, bless her heart, always had a little something “special” tucked away in the pantry. While she swore it was just for medicinal purposes, I always suspected her “cherry elixir” held a bit more kick than cough syrup. The sweet, fruity aroma, the deep ruby color, and the ever-so-slight warmth it left on your tongue – it was a secret indulgence, a shared wink between us. This Chocolate Covered Cherry Moonshine recipe captures that same mischievous spirit, blending the comforting flavors of chocolate and cherry with a grown-up twist. It’s not Grandma’s cough syrup, but I have a feeling she would definitely approve.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: Slight Simmering Required
• Total Time: Several Hours (includes cooling time)
• Servings: Varies based on serving size
• Yield: Approximately 1 Gallon
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 2 1⁄2 cups Everclear alcohol, 190 proof (can add more to taste, if desired)
• 1 cup chocolate liqueur (Crave Chocolate Truffle works well or any other brand)
• 64 ounces tart cherry juice
• 10 ounces maraschino cherries, with juice
• 1⁄2 cup brown sugar
• 1⁄2 cup white sugar

Equipment Needed

• Large Stockpot
• Spoon for Stirring
• Measuring Cups
• Bottles for Storage

Instructions

1. Begin by pouring the tart cherry juice into a large stockpot.
2. Place the stockpot on the stovetop and bring the cherry juice to a slight simmer over medium heat. Be careful not to boil the juice, as this can alter the flavor.
3. Add the maraschino cherries along with their juice to the simmering cherry juice. The maraschino cherry juice will add a delightful sweetness and a beautiful, vibrant color to the final product.
4. Now, introduce the sweeteners. Add 1/2 cup of white sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar to the mixture.
5. Stir the ingredients continuously for a few minutes until both the white sugar and brown sugar are completely dissolved. Ensure no sugar granules remain at the bottom of the pot.
6. Once the sugars are fully dissolved, remove the stockpot from the heat. It’s crucial to allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature. This step is essential because adding alcohol to a hot mixture can cause it to evaporate and alter the final alcohol content and flavor profile.
7. After the cherry mixture has cooled down to room temperature, carefully pour in 2 1/2 cups of Everclear alcohol. Important: Exercise caution when handling Everclear, as it is a highly concentrated alcohol.
8. Finally, add 1 full cup of chocolate liqueur to the mixture. The chocolate liqueur will provide a rich, decadent chocolate flavor that complements the cherry perfectly.
9. Stir the entire mixture thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. The color should be a deep, inviting reddish-brown.
10. Once thoroughly mixed, carefully pour the finished Chocolate Covered Cherry Moonshine into bottles for storage. Properly sealed, these bottles will help preserve the flavors and prevent spoilage.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Adjusting Sweetness: Taste the mixture after it has cooled and adjusted the amount of sugar to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of white and brown sugar.
• Chocolate Intensity: If you desire a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using a dark chocolate liqueur or adding a small amount of cocoa powder to the mixture while simmering. Be sure to whisk well to avoid clumps.
• Cherry Variety: Experiment with different types of cherry juice. Using a blend of sweet and tart cherry juice can create a more complex flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: For a little extra warmth, try adding a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to the simmering cherry juice. Remove them before adding the alcohol.
• Freezing: Place moonshine in freezer for added enjoyment.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your Chocolate Covered Cherry Moonshine chilled, either straight or over ice. It can also be used as a flavorful addition to cocktails or mixed drinks. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a maraschino cherry or a chocolate shaving.

Store the moonshine in airtight bottles in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it should last for several months. The high alcohol content acts as a preservative, preventing spoilage. Refrigeration is not necessary but can enhance the chilled serving experience.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving size.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	5g	8%
Saturated Fat	3g	15%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	10mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	30g	10%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	25g	N/A
Protein	0g	0%

Variations & Substitutions

• Fruit Infusions: Try adding other fruits like raspberries or blackberries to the simmering cherry juice for a mixed-berry flavor.
• Spice Infusion: Infuse the finished product with a vanilla bean or a star anise for a more complex aroma and flavor.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: For a family-friendly version, omit the Everclear and substitute with strong brewed tea or sparkling cider.
• Different Liqueurs: Try other flavored Liqueurs like Coffee or Vanilla.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of Everclear?
A: Yes, you can substitute Everclear with a high-proof vodka or grain alcohol, but be mindful of the alcohol content, as it will affect the final strength of the moonshine.

Q: How long does the moonshine need to cool before adding the alcohol?
A: It’s crucial to let the cherry mixture cool completely to room temperature before adding the alcohol. This prevents evaporation and ensures the proper alcohol content and flavor profile.

Q: Can I make this in a smaller batch?
A: Absolutely! Simply reduce the ingredient quantities proportionally to make a smaller batch.

Q: Is it safe to drink moonshine made at home?
A: This recipe does not produce true moonshine, which is illegally distilled. This recipe is a flavored alcoholic beverage made with commercially available ingredients. As long as you use high-quality ingredients and follow the instructions carefully, it is safe to consume responsibly.

Q: Can I add fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you may need to adjust the amount of sugar to compensate for the lower sweetness level. Pit the cherries before adding them to the simmering juice.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – a simple and delightful recipe for Chocolate Covered Cherry Moonshine that is sure to please any adult gathering. Gather your ingredients, follow the recipe closely, and prepare to be transported back to a time of sweet secrets and shared smiles. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to create your own signature blend. This recipe is a starting point, a canvas for your culinary creativity. I hope you enjoy this recipe and I encourage you to share it with friends and family who appreciate a delicious and unique homemade beverage. Cheers!