If you love a good Manhattan like we do, make your next one with your own homemade bitters.

With only a dash or two, bitters add complexity and balance to your cocktail.

This simple recipe is made with everyday ingredients you can find at the grocery store. Just a pinch of each ingredient goes a long way, so you can make larger batches and bottle them as gifts.

Cherry Bitters

1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
1/4 stalk lemongrass, cut into small pieces
1 star anise pod
1 juniper berry
1 clove
1 cardamom seed
1/4 tsp. anise seeds
1/4 cup dried cherries
1 cup rye whiskey

Combine all ingredients in an air-tight glass jar. Seal and shake. Let ingredients seep for  14 days, shaking once every other day. Then strain into bottle and store at room temperature.