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Nothing beats cooling down with a frosty Cherry Jack and Coke Slushie on a blazing summer afternoon. This grown-up treat blends the nostalgic flavor of cherry cola with a grownup whiskey twist and is dangerously easy to whip up with just a blender ice cubes and a few minutes of prep. I always make a batch when friends come over for a barbecue and it never lasts long on the table.
I made this first at a Fourth of July cookout and people still ask for the recipe every summer. The combo of sweet cherries and that little whiskey hint makes it a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
- Diet Coke or regular Coke: for that classic cola base grab cans that feel firm and fresh
- Frozen dark sweet cherries: to thicken the slush and give juicy fruit flavor choose whole ones without syrup for best color and taste
- Jack Daniels or any favorite whiskey: to bring a warm depth and a slight kick
- Chilled Coke: to loosen up the slushie texture in the blender and add extra fizz use fresh from the fridge
- Garnish with maraschino cherries: for an extra pop of color and flavor look for ones in glass jars for better quality
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Freeze the Coke:
- Pour the Diet Coke into an ice cube tray until each well is filled almost to the top. Place the tray into your freezer and let it sit undisturbed for two hours or until the cubes are rock solid. Using cola ice cubes keeps the flavor intense and undiluted.
- Blend Everything Together:
- Pop the Coke ice cubes out of the tray and add them to your blender. Layer in the frozen cherries so the blender blades can grab onto the fruit and not just skate over the ice. Pour in the whiskey and chilled Coke. Start on the pulse setting and blend just until everything looks uniform and glossy. If needed stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula before giving it another blitz.
- Adjust Consistency and Serve:
- Check the slushie to make sure it is thick but spoonable. If it is too stiff add a splash more chilled Coke until it blends smoothly. Taste for balance and add another cherry if you want extra fruity notes. Immediately spoon or pour the slushie into glasses and top each serving with a maraschino cherry for that soda fountain look.
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I am totally addicted to the deep flavor that the frozen cherries bring to this slushie. The first time I made it my best friend and I sat on the porch and decided it tastes like a grown up version of those childhood cherry popsicles.
Storage Tips
If you make this ahead or end up with leftovers pour the slushie into a freezer safe bag or airtight container. When ready to serve let it soften on the counter for five to ten minutes and then pulse it in the blender for that just made texture again.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any type of cola regular or sugar free depending on your preference. For a different twist try honey whiskey for a mellow note or swap in frozen mixed berries for a punchier taste. Keep in mind that using fruit packed in syrup will result in a sweeter and softer slushie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve immediately for the ultimate refreshment. For parties make a big batch in advance and keep it in the freezer with an ice cream scoop for self service. A colorful striped straw or a sugared rim brings a fun festive touch to each portion.
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Cultural Note
The idea of blending soda ice cubes with fruit for instant slushie fun goes back to old school soda fountains. This spiked version gives a nod to classic cherry colas with that unmistakable American backyard vibe.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use regular Coke instead of Diet Coke?
Yes, both regular and Diet Coke work well for this drink. Choose based on your preference for sweetness or sugar content.
- → What kind of whiskey is best?
Jack Daniels is a great choice, but any smooth whiskey will pair nicely with cherries and cola flavors.
- → How do I get the slushie texture right?
Freezing the Coke into ice cubes is key. Blend with frozen cherries and chilled Coke to achieve a smooth, icy consistency.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
You can store the blended mixture in the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then re-blend before serving if needed.
- → Are there non-alcoholic options?
You can easily omit the whiskey for an alcohol-free version, keeping all the cherry and cola flavor intact.