Cherry Cordial

Cherry cordial is simple to make and bursts with fruity flavor. Jennifer McGruther

Summery, sweet, and with the faintest touch of spice, this cherry cordial tastes lovely when swirled into sparkling water and served over ice. It’s simple to make, and you can leave the pits in the cherries, too.

Makes about 2 cups (32 servings)

• 1 medium lemon
• 2 pounds whole, unpitted sweet cherries
• 1 tablespoon green cardamom pods
• 1 (1-inch) knob fresh ginger
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups unrefined cane sugar

Finely grate the lemon peel into a small bowl, avoiding any bitter white pith. Then slice the lemon in half crosswise, and squeeze its juice into a separate bowl. Leave both the finely grated lemon peel and the juice on the countertop while you prepare the other ingredients.