Cherry Basil Italian Margarita + Homemade Cherry Syrup 🍒

Cherry Week is officially back for 2026… except we’re retiring the word week.

Because let’s be honest, dropping seven recipes in seven days just leaves everyone feeling rushed and overwhelmed (myself included). So this year, we’re turning Cherry Week into a Cherry Series. Over the next two weeks, I’ll be sharing new cherry-inspired recipes so you have plenty of time to make them all while cherries are still at their peak.

And we’re kicking things off with a margarita because summer always demands one.

But before we get to the cocktail, we need to talk about the most important ingredient: homemade cherry syrup. Because if it’s not fresh… we don’t want it. A splash of vanilla and just the tiniest hint of almond extract give it that nostalgic cherry flavor, and trust me, you’ll want extra for sparkling water, spritzes, and maybe even vanilla ice cream.

A few tools that make cherry season a whole lot easier:

• Cherry pitter: A must if you’re planning on making more than one recipe. Your fingers (and countertops) will thank you.

• Fine mesh strainer: Perfect for syrups, shrubs, and smoother cocktails.

• Blender: For syrups, frozen drinks, and the occasional cherry sorbet situation.

• Weck jars: For storing syrups, infused spirits, and brandied cherries.

• Citrus juicer: Because fresh lime juice is non-negotiable around here.

• Cocktail shaker: Obviously.

• Luxardo Cocktail Cherries: They are the best, I’m sorry but they are.

• Cherry Pant: Pilcro Kayden High-Rise Carpenter Barrel Pants

• Maeve Shrunken Bennet Embellished Buttondown Shirt

• Teri Shoulder Bag With Stripes And Charm

• Cherry Apron

• Cherry Drop Earrings

Makes about 2 cups

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup water

• Splash of vanilla bean extract

• A very scant amount of almond extract

Add the cherries, sugar, and water to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 15–25 minutes, allowing the cherries to soften and break down.

Remove from the heat and let cool completely. Transfer to a blender and blend until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, then stir in a splash of vanilla bean extract and just a tiny amount of almond extract—a little goes a long way.

Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for 2–4 weeks.

Makes 2 cocktails

• 6 fresh cherries, pitted

• 3–4 basil sprigs

• 1 ounce homemade cherry syrup

• 2 ounces fresh lime juice

• 1½ ounces almond liqueur

• 4 ounces tequila blanco

• Fresh cherries

• Lime wheels

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cherries, basil, cherry syrup, and lime juice until the fruit has released its juices and the basil is fragrant.

Add the almond liqueur and tequila, then fill the shaker with ice. Shake until well chilled and double-strain into two ice-filled glasses.

Garnish with fresh cherries and a lime wheel.

And with that, the 2026 Cherry Series has officially begun!

If you’re making this Cherry Basil Margarita, I highly recommend making extra syrup because we’re just getting started. There are plenty more cherry recipes headed your way over the next few weeks, and trust me, you’ll want a jar waiting in the fridge.

Until next time, may your cherries be sweet, your limes be juicy, and your hours extra happy.

Cheers!