Fruit brandy recipes
A drink made by macerating crushed fruits (or fruit concentrate) in grape spirit, and then sweetening it. Fruit ‘brandies’ are not true brandies, although they are of decent quality and are versatile cocktail ingredients.
Cherry ‘brandy’ is the most common drink in this group, but there are also apricot, peach, cranberry and melon-flavoured ‘brandies’ (and others).
Fruit ‘brandies’ should not be confused with fruit eaux de vie, such as cherry-based Kirsch, or fruit-flavoured liqueurs.
Traditional trifle recipe couldn't be easier, use ready-made custard and sponge to save time but don't skimp on the sherry! The cream syllabub is super simple too. Perfection!
More fruit brandy recipes
Buyer's guide
Fruit ‘brandies’ are widely available, from two main producers.
Storage
Store away from direct sunlight. These drinks keep quite well once opened, but the flavour may begin to deteriorate after several months.
Preparation
Fruit-flavoured ‘brandies’ can be used in a variety of cakes, steamed puddings and desserts, as a flavouring or as a topping.
