Thank you so much for stopping by—truly, it means the world. If you’ve been craving a show-stopping cocktail that’s creamy, fruity, and totally photo-worthy, you’re in for a real treat. The Cherry on Top Cocktail isn’t just a drink—it’s a full-on dessert experience in a glass. With swirls of cherry syrup, a lush coconut-pineapple base, and a whipped cream crown, this cocktail feels like a sweet summer celebration in every sip.

Whether you’re hosting friends by the pool, planning a romantic dessert night, or just want to treat yourself to something indulgent, this recipe is one to bookmark. I’ve made it again and again for guests, and it’s always the first thing people ask for the recipe for.

Cherry on Top Cocktail – What Makes It So Special?

This dessert cocktail is a flavor-packed fusion of rich coconut cream, bright cherry liqueur, and a tropical twist of pineapple juice. It’s creamy but balanced, sweet but not cloying, and as pretty as it is delicious. I love how it feels a bit like a grown-up ice cream soda—only far more elegant and satisfying.

There’s something playful about it too. The cherry streaks swirling through the creamy base, the cloud of whipped cream on top, and the cheerful maraschino cherry garnish—it all just screams “fun.” And let’s not forget the option to spike it with a splash of rum or vodka for that extra adult kick.

Why You’ll Love This Cocktail

It’s a dessert and a drink all in one
Customizable to be boozy or alcohol-free
Visually stunning—those cherry swirls are pure magic
Comes together quickly with minimal effort
Perfect for parties, brunch, or a sweet summer night

What Does It Taste Like?

This cocktail is like sipping a tropical cherry cream float. The cream of coconut gives it richness and sweetness, while the pineapple juice adds a bit of tangy brightness. The cherry liqueur brings depth, giving it that unmistakable cherry flavor without being syrupy. Add a splash of white rum or vodka and you get a gently warming finish that balances everything out.

It’s sweet and smooth with a velvety texture—think creamy cherry popsicle meets island cocktail. And when topped with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry, it’s impossible not to smile with every sip.

Ingredients for the Cherry on Top Cocktail (Serves 2)

3 oz cream of coconut (such as Coco López)
2 oz white rum or vodka (optional, for a boozy version)
1 oz cherry liqueur (Cherry Heering or Luxardo recommended)
2 oz pineapple juice
1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup ice
1–2 tablespoons cherry syrup or grenadine (for the swirl)
Whipped cream (for topping)
Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Blender
Measuring jigger or small liquid measuring cup
Parfait or cocktail glasses
Long spoon (for layering)
Ice scoop or measuring cup
Optional: Straw or stir stick for presentation

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

I promised flexibility, and here it is. This cocktail can be customized in so many fun ways depending on what you have on hand or the flavor profile you’re craving.

Non-dairy version: Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or almond milk creamer.
Boost the cherry: Add a splash of cherry juice from the maraschino cherry jar.
For chocolate lovers: Drizzle chocolate syrup in the glass before pouring in the mix—cherry + chocolate = heaven.
Extra fruit-forward: Blend in a few fresh or frozen cherries for a natural flavor boost.
Fizzy version: Top off the finished drink with a little lemon-lime soda or sparkling water.

How to Make the Cherry on Top Cocktail

Step 1: Blend the Coconut Base

In a blender, combine the cream of coconut, pineapple juice, heavy cream (or half-and-half), white rum or vodka (if using), and ice. Blend until smooth and creamy. The consistency should be thick but pourable—similar to a milkshake.

Tip: If the mixture is too thick, add a splash more pineapple juice. If it’s too thin, add a few extra ice cubes and pulse again.

Step 2: Prepare the Glasses with Cherry Swirls

Take your glasses and drizzle the cherry syrup or grenadine inside. Tilt the glass slightly and let the syrup run down the inside in vertical streaks. This not only adds visual appeal but infuses the drink with more cherry flavor.

Step 3: Pour and Layer

Slowly pour the blended coconut mixture into the syrup-lined glasses. If you want to preserve the visual streaks, use a spoon to gently guide the liquid into the glass rather than dumping it all at once.

You’ll start to see gorgeous pink swirls as the cherry syrup mingles with the creamy cocktail—this is where the magic happens.

Step 4: Top It Off

Generously top each glass with whipped cream. Add a maraschino cherry (or two!) and, if desired, drizzle a bit more cherry liqueur or syrup over the top for added drama and flavor.

Serve with a straw and maybe even a cocktail umbrella—go big or go home!

What to Serve with This Cocktail

Because this cocktail doubles as a dessert, it doesn’t need a lot of accompaniments—but if you’re hosting and want to put together a whole spread, here are some fabulous pairings:

Mini cherry cheesecake bites
Shortbread cookies with a cherry glaze
Chocolate-dipped strawberries
Grilled pineapple rings or fruit skewers
Light sponge cake with cherry compote

This cocktail also makes a fantastic finale after a summer barbecue or brunch. It’s rich enough to satisfy a sweet tooth but refreshing enough not to feel heavy.

Tips for a Perfect Cherry on Top Cocktail

Use chilled glasses to keep the drink colder longer.
Crushed ice blends more smoothly than ice cubes.
Don’t skip the cream of coconut—it provides sweetness and texture. Coconut milk will not give the same result.
Layer slowly to preserve the cherry swirl effect.
Use a high-speed blender to ensure a silky, even consistency.

How to Store or Prep Ahead

If you want to make this ahead of time, here’s how to do it:

Blend the coconut base and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours in a covered container.
Don’t add ice until just before serving—it will melt and water down the drink.
Garnishes should be added fresh at the time of serving.
If the mixture separates in the fridge, just give it a good stir or re-blend before serving.

Leftovers can be stored for a day, but the texture is best fresh. If you do refrigerate leftovers, give them a quick pulse in the blender with a little ice to bring the creaminess back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cocktail without alcohol?
Yes! Simply omit the rum or vodka and the cherry liqueur. Use a bit of extra cherry syrup or maraschino juice to keep that deep cherry flavor.

What’s the difference between grenadine and cherry syrup?
Grenadine is usually made from pomegranate juice and sugar, while cherry syrup is typically made from sweet or maraschino cherries. Either one works here, but cherry syrup gives you a more distinct cherry flavor.

Can I make this in a big batch for parties?
Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredient quantities to suit the number of guests. Keep the base chilled, and add ice and garnishes to individual servings when ready.

What kind of cherry liqueur should I use?
Cherry Heering is a classic choice with rich, deep cherry notes. Luxardo is a bit more complex and has a touch of almond-like flavor. Both work beautifully.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

The Cherry on Top Cocktail is more than just pretty—it’s practical, fun, and totally unforgettable. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat but fancy enough to serve at any event. And because it’s so versatile, you can make it your own in a hundred little ways—different liqueurs, different toppings, even different fruit accents.

Every sip is smooth, cool, and indulgent. It’s the kind of drink you crave when the sun is out and you’re ready to relax. Make it once, and I guarantee it’ll earn a regular spot in your summer rotation.

More Dessert and Party Cocktails You’ll Love

If this creamy cherry dream hit the spot, you’re going to fall hard for these other fruity and fun cocktail recipes:

Poolside Pop Princess Frozen Cocktail – A frozen layered drink with beach-day energy and neon vibes
Berry Vodka Drink Party Punch – Fruity, fizzy, and made for your next backyard bash
Gummy Drip Jello Sips – Whimsical, boozy gelatin shooters topped with candy for adult fun

Each one brings something a little different to the table, and they’re all ideal companions to the Cherry on Top Cocktail when you’re building a signature drink menu or themed cocktail night.

Let’s Keep the Party Going

If you make this cocktail, I would love to hear how it turned out. Did you keep it classic, or add your own twist? Tag your creations with #CherryOnTopCocktail on Pinterest or Instagram, or leave a comment with your review. Your take might inspire someone else to give it a try—and that’s the real joy of sharing recipes, isn’t it?

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, With Alcohol)

Calories: Approximately 290
Fat: 10g
Sugar: 24g
Protein: 1g
Estimated Alcohol Content: ~10–12% ABV

Cherry on Top Cocktail – A Creamy Swirled Summer Dessert Sip

Author: Sam

Print Recipe

Description

Cherry on Top Cocktail is a creamy, swirled dessert drink that tastes like a cherry cream soda on vacation. Made with coconut cream, cherry liqueur, pineapple juice, and topped with whipped cream and maraschino cherries, this sweet summer sip is as pretty as it is delicious. Perfect for brunch, parties, or a fun after-dinner treat!

Ingredients

Scale

3 oz cream of coconut (like Coco López)
2 oz white rum or vodka (optional for a stronger version)
1 oz cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering or Luxardo)
2 oz pineapple juice
1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup ice
1–2 tablespoons cherry syrup or grenadine (for swirling)
Whipped cream (for topping)

Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

Instructions

Blend the base: In a blender, combine the cream of coconut, pineapple juice, heavy cream, ice, and rum or vodka (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy but still thick.
Swirl the glasses: Drizzle cherry syrup or grenadine inside the serving glasses, letting it streak down the sides for that signature swirl.
Pour and layer: Slowly pour the blended mix into the glasses. For clean, defined swirls, spoon the mixture in gently over the cherry syrup.
Top with flair: Finish with a big swirl of whipped cream and top with one or two maraschino cherries. Optionally, drizzle a little extra cherry liqueur on top for a fun kick.

Serve cold and enjoy immediately!

Notes

Want a non-alcoholic version? Skip the rum and cherry liqueur. Add an extra splash of cherry syrup or juice from the maraschino jar for bold flavor.
Use chilled or frosted glasses for a colder, thicker texture.
For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk creamer instead of heavy cream.
To serve a crowd, multiply the ingredients and blend in batches. Add toppings to each glass just before serving for the best presentation.

Customize with chocolate drizzle, fresh cherries, or even a fizzy topper like lemon-lime soda for your own twist!