Before we get to my Cherry Kamikaze Cocktail recipe. Did you know? The Traditional Kamikaze Cocktail recipe is served as a shot, slightly sweet, tart and strong. It is rumored to have been invented on a US Naval base during the occupation of Japan after World War II. A combination of Vodka, Triple Sec, and lime juice the original Kamikaze recipe will most definitely get you hammered if you’re not careful.
Last night, I was out of orange liqueur and decided that Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Liqueur was and an excellent substitute. The Luxardo is sweeter than a Triple Sec, so it is more of a cocktail, rather than a regular old Kamikaze Shot. And with the addition of Luxardo Maraschino Cherries in syrup as a garnish, this drink is elevated, my Cherry Kamikaze recipe is an elegant and somewhat sophisticated cocktail, definitely worthy of your attention.
Here’s how I make both the Kamikaze Shot and the Cherry Kamikaze Cocktail recipes…
Traditional Kamikaze Shot recipe:
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 Ounces Vodka (I like Tito’s Vodka)
- 1 Ounce Triple Sec or Grand Marnier
- ½ Lime, Juice
PROCESS:
-Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker over ice
-Shake 40-50 times until ice cold
-Strain into your favorite chilled cocktail glass
-Garnish with maraschino cherries and a wedge of lime
Cherry Kamikaze Cocktail recipe:
Cherry Kamikaze Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 Ounces Vodka I like Tito's
- 1 Ounce Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Liqueur
- 1/2 Lime Juice only
Garnish
- Maraschino Cherries
- Lime Wedge
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker over ice. Shake 40-50 times until ice cold
- Strain into your favorite chilled cocktail glass
- Garnish with maraschino cherries and a wedge of lime
I’m not sure I would use the bright red maraschino cherries for either the Kamikaze Shot or the Cherry Kamikaze cocktail, they may ruin the effect. If you’ve not had the Luxardo Maraschino Cherries, you need to give them a try. Yes, they are more expensive, I paid $17 in NYC for a 400g jar, but, trust me, these are not the cherries of your childhood ice cream sundaes, these are something special. And no, unfortunately, I’m not being paid by Luxardo, I’m just a fan.
Scott Medvetz
Unfortunately they’re not “a little more expensive,” they’re A LOT more expensive. But yes, they are most definitely worth it. I have been buying them at Williams-Sonoma for about $20 but I just saw them at Wegmans for $16. Time to stock up!
Steven
You are definitely right Scott, they are a lot more expensive! It’s hard to believe they’re the same type of cherry as the bright red maraschino cherries I grew up with. I think I’ll go back and edit that line now, haha. Thank you for the comment.