Cherry Whiskey Smash Cocktail

At-a-Glance

• Total time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 cocktail (easy to scale)
• Texture: Cold, crisp, and slightly frothy from shaking
• Flavor: Smooth whiskey with sweet-tart cherry, bright lemon, and mint
• Key ingredients: Whiskey, tart cherry juice, lemon, mint
• Skill level: Beginner
• Make-ahead note: Mix the cherry-lemon base ahead and add whiskey and ice when serving

Quick Summary

This cherry whiskey smash cocktail is a fresh, sweet-tart twist on the classic whiskey smash. Tart cherry juice and lemon brighten the bourbon, muddled mint keeps it crisp, and the whole drink comes together fast for cookouts, patio nights, and easy at-home happy hours.

Prep and Yield

• Total time: 5 minutes
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 cocktail
• Skill level: Beginner

Ingredients

• 2 ounces bourbon or whiskey
• 1 ounce Traverse Bay Farms tart cherry juice (or tart cherry juice concentrate diluted to taste)
• 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 8–10 fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
• Ice
• Optional: splash of club soda for a lighter finish
• Optional garnish: lemon wheel and a cherry (fresh or frozen)

Instructions

1. Add mint leaves and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Gently muddle 5–6 times to release aroma without shredding the mint.
2. Add bourbon, tart cherry juice, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake hard for 10–12 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
5. If you want it lighter, top with a small splash of club soda.
6. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lemon wheel, then serve right away.

Chef’s Tips

• Muddle mint gently. Crushing too hard can make the drink taste bitter and grassy.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the cleanest flavor. Bottled lemon juice can dull the cocktail.
• Adjust sweetness based on your cherry juice and your whiskey. Start with 1/2 ounce simple syrup and add more only if needed.
• If using tart cherry juice concentrate, dilute first so the drink stays balanced and not overly intense.
• For a smoother sip, double-strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove small mint bits.
• Traverse Bay Farms tip: tart cherry juice adds a bright sweet-tart note that makes bourbon taste lighter and more refreshing.

Nutritional Highlights

• Tart cherry juice adds fruit-forward flavor that balances whiskey and lemon.
• Mint and citrus bring freshness that keeps the cocktail crisp and easy to sip.
• Using less syrup keeps the drink bright and not overly sweet.

Behind the Recipe

This cocktail feels like a Northern Michigan porch drink: fruit-forward, refreshing, and not too fussy. The whiskey smash is already a classic for warm weather, and tart cherry juice gives it that sweet-tart lift that pairs naturally with bourbon.

It works because lemon and mint cut through the richness of whiskey, while cherry adds roundness and color. Shaking with ice chills the drink fast and blends everything into a smooth, balanced sip that still tastes bold.

How to Serve

• Serve with grilled foods like pork, chicken, or burgers.
• Pair with a snack board featuring nuts, cheese, and dried cherries.
• Make it the signature drink for brunch, showers, or backyard gatherings.
• Offer a lighter version with extra club soda for a longer, spritz-style cocktail.

How to Store and Make Ahead

You can prep the base for faster hosting, but always shake with ice right before serving.

• Make ahead: Mix tart cherry juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
• Serve: Add whiskey and mint to the shaker when ready, then shake with ice and pour.
• Batch tip: For a small group, multiply the base and keep it chilled, then shake cocktails individually for best texture.

FAQ

What is a cherry whiskey smash cocktail?
A cherry whiskey smash cocktail is a variation of a classic whiskey smash that adds tart cherry juice for a sweet-tart fruit finish. It is typically made with bourbon or whiskey, lemon juice, mint, and a little sweetener. Served over ice, it tastes bright, refreshing, and balanced.

What whiskey works best for a cherry whiskey smash cocktail?
Bourbon is a popular choice because its vanilla and caramel notes pair naturally with cherry and lemon. A smooth rye whiskey also works if you prefer a slightly spicier finish. Use a whiskey you enjoy sipping, since the flavor still comes through even with mint and citrus.

Can I make a cherry whiskey smash less sweet?
Yes. Reduce the simple syrup or skip it entirely if your cherry juice is already sweetened. You can also increase lemon juice slightly for more brightness and balance. Using tart cherry juice instead of a sweet cherry drink is another easy way to keep the cocktail crisp.

Can I batch cherry whiskey smash cocktails for a party?
You can batch the cherry and lemon base in advance, but it is best to add mint and shake with ice per drink so the flavor stays fresh. If you need to batch fully, add mint right before serving and stir well over ice, then strain into glasses to keep it clean.

How do I make a non-alcoholic cherry smash?
Swap the whiskey for club soda, ginger ale, or non-alcoholic whiskey alternative, and keep the tart cherry juice, lemon, and mint. Shake the juice, lemon, and mint with ice, then top with soda for a refreshing mocktail. It still tastes bright and fruit-forward.

The Traverse Bay Farms Promise

• 38+ National Food Awards for Flavor and Quality
• Proudly Family-Owned and Operated in Northern Michigan
• Crafted with as Much Michigan-Grown Fruit as Possible
• Made in the USA with Trusted Ingredients

Customer Testimonials

• “Perfect balance. The tart cherry makes bourbon taste lighter and more refreshing.” — Sam T., Louisville, KY
• “I made these for a backyard night and everyone asked for the recipe. Not too sweet, just right.” — Megan R., Boise, ID
• “The mint and cherry together are so good. This is now my go-to summer cocktail.” — Carlos M., San Antonio, TX

Disclaimer

This recipe is intended for adults of legal drinking age (21+). Please enjoy our cocktail recipes responsibly and in moderation. We are not responsible for the results of the recipes or for any adverse effects from the consumption of alcohol. Do not drink and drive, and do not consume if you are pregnant or nursing.