Name: Homemade cherry griotka: a recipe worth the wait
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 2 kg ripe cherries; 1–1.5 kg granulated sugar (depending on the sweetness of the fruit); 1–2 cinnamon sticks (approx. 8 cm); 1 whole star anise; 1 vanilla pod (split lengthwise); 2 l vodka (min. 40 % alcohol)

Homemade cherry griotka: a recipe worth the wait

Homemade cherry griotka: a recipe worth the wait recept

Easy to prepare
5 portions
15 minutes

Jan, 19. 12. 2025

The time of ripe cherries is the ideal opportunity to make homemade griotka – an aromatic cherry liqueur with a hint of vanilla, cinnamon and star anise. Although its production requires several months of patience, the preparation itself is easy and the result will pleasantly surprise you with its delicious taste.

For 5 portions

Ingredients

2 kg ripe cherries
1–1.5 kg granulated sugar (depending on the sweetness of the fruit)
1–2 cinnamon sticks (approx. 8 cm)
1 whole star anise
1 vanilla pod (split lengthwise)
2 l vodka (min. 40 % alcohol)

Preparation procedure

Preparing the fruit Wash the cherries and let them drain. If you prefer a less bitter taste, remove the pits from some of them.
Preparing the infusion Place the cherries into a clean 5 l container, add the sugar, cinnamon, star anise and the vanilla pod.
Pouring with vodka Pour in the vodka so that the cherries are completely submerged. Close the container.
Dissolving the sugar For 3 days, shake the container several times each day so the sugar dissolves evenly.
Aging Move the container to a dark, cool place. Let it age for 6 months, during which the liqueur will acquire its full flavor and rich color.
Filtering and bottling After the aging period, pour the contents through a fine sieve or cloth filter into clean bottles. You can eat the cherries or add them to puddings, yogurts or desserts.

Number of bottles

The resulting volume of griotka is approximately 2–2.5 liters (4–5 bottles of 0.5 l).

Total preparation time

Active preparation: 15 minutes
Dissolving the sugar: 3 days (regular shaking)
Aging: 6 months
Total: 6 months + 3 days

Conclusion

Homemade cherry griotka is a delicious liqueur that will reward you with its sweetly spiced aroma and full fruity flavor. Although it requires several months of aging, the active work takes only a few dozen minutes. Make it this year and enjoy it at Christmas or on festive occasions.