Modern Cherry Bomb Cocktail
Bright, balanced, and effervescent — the Modern Cherry Bomb Cocktail takes the nostalgic cherry-soda combo and sharpens it with vodka and a splash of lemon juice. It’s a lighter, cleaner twist on the original that keeps the fun fizz but adds grown-up balance.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Vodka – adds structure and dryness without stealing the spotlight.
- Cherry Liqueur – delivers vivid color and sweet-tart cherry flavor.
- Lemon Juice – brings brightness and a refreshing citrus edge.
- Lemon-Lime Soda – tops it all off with fizz and light sweetness.
Equipment
Highball glass | Bar spoon | Ice
Why You’ll Love It
This modern riff trims the sugar of the original Cherry Bomb, leaning into balance and refreshment. Vodka smooths the sweetness, while lemon juice gives the cocktail lift and length — making it perfect for casual nights or party batches alike.
Variations & Twists
- Classic Throwback: Skip the lemon and vodka for the original candy-sweet Cherry Bomb.
- Cherry Fizz Spritz: Add a splash of soda water for extra bubbles.
- Tart Cherry Edition: Swap in unsweetened cherry juice for a drier, fruitier taste.
- Spiked Punch Version: Multiply the recipe and serve in a pitcher — top with soda at the last moment.
Helpful Tips
- Chill your soda first for maximum fizz retention.
- Express a lemon peel over the top for a subtle citrus aroma.
- Garnish with both a cherry and lemon wheel for contrast and photo appeal.
Modern Cherry Bomb Recipe
Type of Glass
Highball Glass
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz.
- 1 oz. Cherry Liqueur
- 3 oz.
- 1/4 oz.
Directions
- Fill a highball glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Add vodka, cherry liqueur, and lemon juice.
- Top with chilled lemon-lime soda.
- Give it one gentle stir to combine while preserving carbonation.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon wheel, then serve immediately.
The Modern Cherry Bomb Cocktail keeps the sparkle but tones down the sweetness — proof that a classic can grow up gracefully.
