Cherry Vanilla Vodka Soda Recipe

I adore crafting the ideal Cherry Vanilla Vodka Soda, and it all starts with 2 ounces of cherry vodka—a rich, fruity base. Next comes 1 ounce of vanilla syrup, which adds such a subtly sweet depth that I can’t help but relish when paired with the 4 ounces of club soda that make this drink truly effervescent.

I serve it over ice (as you should with any proper cocktail), and the combination of flavors is as remarkable as I’m about to describe to you. Note that for the following, I’m working with a single serving, though I can effortlessly multiply the recipe when serving a crowd.

Ingredients

Cherry Vodka: Imparts a robust, fruity flavor onto the drink, yielding a pronounced cherry taste.

Vanilla syrup: Adds sweetness and an aromatic vanilla note that complements the cherry vodka perfectly.

Club Soda: Imparts fizziness and provides lightness, balancing sweetness with a refreshingly crisp note.

Serving fresh cherries garnishes that are not only natural but also healthy.

Their sweetness and tartness make them an excellent addition to many dishes, including salads.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 ounces cherry vodka
• 1 ounce vanilla syrup
• 4 ounces club soda
• Ice cubes
• Fresh cherries, for garnish
• Vanilla bean, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. A highball glass should be filled with ice chips to chill your cocktail properly.

2. Measure 2 ounces of cherry vodka into the shaker; pour them over the ice, allowing them to harmoniously mix with the chill.

3. Pour 1 ounce of vanilla syrup into the glass, letting it sink and sweeten the vodka.

4. Carefully fill the drink with 4 ounces of club soda, keeping the effervescent freshness of the beverage.

5. Combine the flavors evenly by stirring the mixture gently with a cocktail stirrer or spoon.

6. Take a handful of fresh cherries and wash them thoroughly. Then, dry them completely.

7. Decorate the beverage with some fresh cherries, either placed directly into the glass or affixed to a swizzle stick.

8. To release its aroma, you may slice a vanilla bean open and intricately arrange it on top as a garnish.

9. Incorporate the flavors into the drink by giving it one last gentle stir.

10. Enjoy the refreshing and smooth flavor right away.

Equipment Needed

1. Highball glass
2. Ice maker or ice tray
3. Cocktail shaker
4. Jigger or measuring cup
5. Spoon or cocktail stirrer
6. Knife (for slicing vanilla bean)
7. Swizzle stick (optional, for garnishing with cherries)
8. Colander or sieve (for washing cherries)
9. Towel or drying cloth

FAQ

• Can I use regular vodka instead of cherry vodka?Indeed, using ordinary vodka is possible, but it will change the flavor of the cherries. Think about using cherry juice or muddled cherries to offset the ordinary vodka’s flavor change.
• How can I make vanilla syrup at home?Vanilla syrup is made by simmering together equal parts water and sugar with a split vanilla bean until the sugar is dissolved. After the mixture has cooled, the bean is removed.
• Is there a non-alcoholic version of this drink?Indeed, use cherry juice in place of cherry vodka and include a splash of vanilla extract rather than syrup for a mocktail.
• What type of glass should I use for this cocktail?This vodka soda cocktail suits either a highball or Collins glass.
• Can I prepare this drink in advance?To keep the club soda carbonated is the mixing of this drink. Therefore, mix it immediately before serving.
• What can I use as a substitute for club soda?An alternative to club soda is seltzer water or sparkling water.
• Do I need to muddle the cherries for garnish?Cherries can be used whole, but while serving, if you want to add a little pizzazz (which we think is a good idea), you can either skewering them with a cocktail pick or using a whole cherry on the rim of the glass. If you want to get a little more visual, place a couple of cherries on a peg board that sits above a low flame; those cherries will light up in a cocktail way.

Substitutions and Variations

Cherry vodka: Swap it out with plain vodka and a splash of cherry juice or cherry syrup.
Vanilla syrup: For a similar taste, utilize honey or simple syrup with a drop of vanilla extract.
Used in place of club soda, sparkling water or tonic water can be used.
Maraschino cherries or frozen cherries can be used as substitutes when fresh cherries are not available.