Cherry Kiss Recipe

Prepare ingredients

Chill a coupe or martini glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes, or fill it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail. If using fresh lemon, squeeze and measure 0.5 oz of juice. If using egg white, separate and measure 0.5 oz (about half an egg white).

Dry shake (if using egg white)

In a cocktail shaker without ice, combine 2 oz vodka, 0.75 oz cherry liqueur, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz simple syrup, 0.5 oz cherry juice, and 0.5 oz egg white. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds to emulsify and create foam.

Wet shake

Add 1 cup of ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for another 10–15 seconds until the shaker is cold to the touch and well diluted (about 12–15% dilution).

Strain

Discard the ice from the chilled glass (if used). Double-strain the cocktail into the chilled coupe or into a rocks glass over 1/2 cup fresh ice, using a fine mesh strainer to remove small ice chips and any solids for a silky texture.

Thread the maraschino cherry (or fresh cherry) onto a pick and lay it across the rim or drop it into the drink. Express the lemon twist over the cocktail to release oils, rub the rim with the twist, and either discard or place on the rim as a decorative accent.

Serve immediately. For a slightly sweeter, more decorative touch, you can float a thin drop of cherry liqueur on top or dust a few grated lemon zest shavings across the foam if using egg white.