Cherry Firecracker Cocktail Recipe
Let's make it an extra festive 4th of July celebration with this shimmery Cherry Firecracker cocktail! Made with freshly muddled cherries and a cinnamon simple syrup and ginger beer topping for a firecracker kick, this patriotic cocktail is sure to be a summer party favorite.

How to Make the Best Cherry Firecracker Cocktail
This patriotic Cherry Firecracker Cocktail is the perfect drink to celebrate summer and make your 4th of July party unforgettable. With its shimmery edible glitter and festive red color, this cocktail looks as spectacular as it tastes. The combination of muddled fresh cherries, cinnamon-spiced syrup, and smooth white rum creates a perfectly balanced drink that’s both sweet and complex.
What Makes This Cocktail Special
The secret to this drink’s magic is the homemade cinnamon simple syrup and the layering of flavors. The fresh cherries are muddled to release their natural juices, which mixes beautifully with the warming spice of cinnamon and the rich notes of Luxardo cherry liqueur. The splash of ginger beer at the end adds a refreshing kick and that “firecracker” bite that gives this cocktail its name. The edible glitter on the rim adds an extra festive touch that’s perfect for any patriotic celebration.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Firecracker Cocktails
When making these cocktails, use the freshest cherries you can find—their quality directly impacts the final flavor. The cinnamon simple syrup is worth making ahead of time, so you can quickly prepare multiple drinks when entertaining. Don’t skip the edible glitter; it’s not just for show—it adds a subtle shimmer and sparkle that makes these drinks Instagram-worthy. Shake the cocktail vigorous for at least 10-15 seconds to ensure everything is properly chilled and mixed, and always use fresh ice to keep the drink cold throughout.

Cherry Firecracker Cocktail
Let's make it an extra festive 4th of July celebration with this shimmery Cherry Firecracker cocktail! Made with freshly muddled cherries and a cinnamon simple syrup and ginger beer topping for a firecracker kick, this patriotic cocktail is sure to be a summer party favorite.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Simple Syrup
Cherry Firecracker Cocktail
Instructions
Cinnamon Simple Syrup
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cinnamon sticks.
- Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring to a slow boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Store in a glass container.
Cherry Firecracker Cocktail
- Muddle the fresh cherries in a cocktail shaker to release their juices.
- Add 1 ounce of cinnamon simple syrup to the shaker.
- Pour in the white rum and Luxardo cherry liqueur.
- Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and a handful of ice.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled, about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of ginger beer for that firecracker kick.
- Rim the glass with edible glitter and garnish with fresh cherries if desired.
Notes
- The cinnamon simple syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, use 6 cinnamon sticks in the simple syrup.
- Make sure to use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor and muddling results.