Divide the bottle of vodka evenly between the two large canning jars. Add two cups of cherries to each jar. Add 1 cup of sugar to each jar. Screw the lids on tightly and shake.

Keep the jars in a cupboard or dark place for at least 1 month, shaking at least twice a week.

When the liqueur is steeped, strain a jar into a large glass measure with a pour spout and decant into two sterilized 8.5 oz. bottles.

Pack all of the cherries into one of the quart jars and top off with rum, bourbon, or brandy for cocktail cherries.

Store bottles of liqueur and cherries in a cool dry place.