Boozy Cherries

• 1 1/2lb. white cherries, such as Napoleon (if using eau-de-vie), or red cherries (if using vodka)
• 1(750-ml) bottle eau-de-vie (such as eau-de-vie de marc de raisin de Bourgogne or grappa) or vodka

Preparation

1. 1.

   Sterilize a 1 1/2-quart (1.5-L) jar per the manufacturer’s instructions. Rinse the cherries in cold water, dry thoroughly, and remove any debris. Using a clean, sterile needle, begin to prick each cherry on all sides 5 or 6 times, adding them to the jar once they’re pricked. Add the eau-de-vie or vodka until it covers and submerges the cherries. Place in a cold, dark pantry or refrigerator and let sit for at least 6 months, or up to a year. Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within a month. NOTEUse pristine fruit that’s not blemished or overripe. Leave the stems on each cherry, to make them easier to extract later.