Fireball Cherry Blasters are sweet, fiery, and totally irresistible boozy treats that come together in just 10 minutes! These bold, cinnamon-spiked Jell-O shots are perfect for parties, tailgates, or just spicing up your weekend. With their eye-catching color and explosive flavor, Fireball Cherry Blasters are guaranteed to be the life of the party and a fast favorite among your guests.
I still remember the first time I whipped up a batch of these for a family BBQ—everyone gathered around the tray before I could even chill them! It reminded me of our Cinnamon Whiskey Sangria, another bold, crowd-pleasing drink that never lasts long. Creating recipes like Fireball Cherry Blasters is my way of turning fun moments into lasting memories, all from the heart of my kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Fireball Cherry Blasters
- Bold & Boozy Flavor: The spicy cinnamon kick from Fireball pairs perfectly with the sweet cherry gelatin—each bite packs a fun punch!
- Eye-Catching Color: Their vibrant red hue makes them stand out on any party table or dessert tray.
- Quick & Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep and a few hours to chill—ideal for last-minute gatherings or weekend treats.
- Perfect for Parties: These are guaranteed crowd-pleasers at BBQs, game nights, bachelorette parties, and holidays.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them a day ahead so you can relax and enjoy the fun when guests arrive.
Fireball Cherry Blasters
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 24–48 hours marinating)
- Yield: About 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Fireball Cherry Blasters are sweet, boozy cherries soaked in cinnamon whisky and homemade syrup. They’re spicy, juicy, and perfect for parties, desserts, or cheeky little treats straight from the jar!
Ingredients
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
1 cup Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1 cup whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cherries
Wash and dry the cherries thoroughly to avoid watering down the syrup.
Step 2: Pit the Cherries
Use a cherry pitter or small knife to carefully remove the pits.
Step 3: Make Cinnamon Syrup
In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cinnamon. Stir over medium heat until dissolved (3–4 minutes).
Step 4: Simmer
Let the syrup boil gently for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Cool the Syrup
Remove from heat and cool for 5 minutes—warm, not hot.
Step 6: Coat the Cherries
Add cherries to the syrup and stir gently to coat.
Step 7: Add Fireball
Pour in the Fireball, vanilla, and salt. Stir carefully.
Step 8: Store
Transfer to a clean jar, making sure the cherries are fully submerged.
Step 9: Marinate
Seal and refrigerate for 24–48 hours for best flavor.
Step 10: Serve
Serve chilled. Top with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
For a softer cinnamon flavor, reduce the ground cinnamon to ¼ teaspoon—or spice it up with a pinch of cayenne for a bold twist!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~6–8 cherries per person
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Ingredients – What You’ll Need
This boozy cherry treat is simple to prepare but full of bold, unforgettable flavor. For about 4 to 6 servings, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted – Use sweet, ripe cherries for the best flavor.
- 1 cup Fireball Cinnamon Whisky – Adds a warm, spicy kick that perfectly balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Used to make the cinnamon-infused simple syrup.
- 1 cup water – Combines with sugar and cinnamon to create a syrupy base.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds richness and depth to the final flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Boosts the cinnamon profile and enhances the warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Just a touch to balance the sweetness and bring out the cherry flavor.
- Optional: 1 cup whipped cream – For serving. Adds a soft, creamy finish that turns this into a mini dessert.
Quality Tip
When choosing your cherries, look for firm, glossy, deep red ones. Avoid any with wrinkles, soft spots, or dull skin—they won’t hold their shape or flavor during the soak. Fresh, vibrant cherries give the best texture and presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Fireball Cherry Blasters
Follow these easy steps to create a treat that’s juicy, spicy, and totally addictive:
Step 1: Prep Your Cherry Stars
Start by rinsing the cherries well under cold water to remove dirt and stems. Pat them completely dry using paper towels—this is important to prevent watering down your syrup later.
Step 2: Pit the Cherries
Using a cherry pitter or small knife, carefully remove the pits. Do this slowly and cleanly to keep the cherries intact and attractive, while avoiding that unwanted crunch from leftover pits.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and ground cinnamon. Heat over medium and stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture looks clear and glossy—this should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer the Flavor Base
Once dissolved, bring the syrup to a light boil and let it simmer without stirring for exactly 5 minutes. This thickens the syrup just enough to cling perfectly to the cherries.
Step 5: Let It Cool Slightly
Remove the pan from the heat and let the syrup cool for around 5 minutes. You want it warm, not boiling, to avoid accidentally cooking the cherries when added.
Step 6: Soak the Cherries
Add your pitted cherries to the warm syrup. Stir gently so every cherry gets evenly coated and fully submerged in that beautiful, spiced liquid.
Step 7: Add the Fireball Magic
Now pour in the Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, along with the vanilla extract and salt. Stir gently again—just enough to combine without bruising the fruit.
Step 8: Store It Right
Transfer the entire mixture into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Ensure that the liquid covers all the cherries so they can soak evenly.
Step 9: Chill and Marinate
Seal the jar and refrigerate it for at least 24 hours. For deeper, spicier flavor, let it marinate for up to 48 hours. The wait is worth it—this is what transforms the mixture into an unforgettable adult treat.
Step 10: Serve and Savor
Once ready, serve the cherries chilled straight from the jar or with a swirl of whipped cream on top. They’re perfect as party snacks, garnishes, or as a sweet-spicy finish to your evening.
Creative Ways to Level Up Your Cherry Game
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, it’s time to have fun and get creative. Here are some mouthwatering ways to take your Fireball Cherry Blasters to the next level:
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream
Dip the boozy cherries in melted dark chocolate and chill until set. A perfect adult indulgence! - Cocktail Garnish Gold
Drop one or two cherries into Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, or even champagne flutes for instant elegance. - Ice Cream Topper
Spoon a few cherries over vanilla ice cream, then drizzle some of that ruby-red syrup on top. Divine! - Cheese Board Star
Pair these spicy-sweet cherries with sharp cheddar or creamy brie on a charcuterie board for a wow-worthy flavor contrast.
Pro Tip: Don’t toss the leftover syrup! Use it in cocktails, mocktails, or even over pancakes or pound cake for a rich, cinnamon-kissed boost.
Everything You Need to Know
How strong are these?
Each cherry absorbs around a teaspoon of Fireball Whisky, so they have a light but noticeable boozy kick—fun without going overboard.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, though fresh ones give better texture. Just thaw and drain frozen cherries well to avoid a watery syrup.
How long do they last?
Stored properly in the fridge, they keep fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks—if you can resist that long!
What if I can’t find fresh cherries?
You can use jarred maraschino cherries in a pinch. Just reduce the sugar in the syrup since they’re already sweet. The flavor will be different but still delicious!
Storage and Serving Secrets
Keep your cherry blasters at their best with these practical tips:
- Always store in the refrigerator, submerged in the marinating syrup
- Use a clean spoon each time to avoid contamination
- For parties, display in a small serving bowl but keep the extra chilled
- Serve slightly chilled for the perfect balance of texture and flavor
- Important: These contain alcohol! Label them clearly at parties
Perfect Occasions for Cherry Blasters
These Fireball-infused cherries are a conversation starter at nearly any adult gathering. Ideal for:
- Elegant dinner parties and wine nights
- Holiday celebrations and family get-togethers
- Summer BBQs and sunny poolside hangs
- Romantic date nights at home
- Game day snacks with a grown-up twist
- Book club meetings that need a bit more excitement
Helpful Resources
- [Guide to Selecting Perfect Cherries]
- [Best Cherry Pitting Tools]
- [Pairing Whisky with Fruit: Flavor Matching Tips]
- [More Boozy Appetizer Ideas for Entertaining]
Conclusion
Fireball Cherry Blasters are more than just a fun treat—they’re a bold, flavorful experience that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you’re garnishing cocktails, topping desserts, or simply sneaking one from the fridge, these whisky-soaked cherries add a fiery flair to any occasion. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll create a show-stopping treat that everyone will remember. So go ahead—make a batch, share the joy, and enjoy the sweet (and spicy) satisfaction!