Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh cherries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup maraschino liqueur
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Step 1: Preparing the Cherries
Start by washing the cherries thoroughly under cold water. Remove the stems and pit each cherry using a cherry pitter or a small sharp knife. Place the pitted cherries in a clean bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Making the Syrup
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool for about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Adding Flavor
After the syrup has cooled slightly, stir in the maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and almond extract. These ingredients will add a delightful flavor to the cherries. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Adding the Cherries
Gently pour the syrup mixture over the pitted cherries, making sure all the cherries are well-covered. If needed, use a spoon to submerge any floating cherries. Allow the cherries to sit in the syrup for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Storing the Cherries
Once the cherries have soaked in the syrup and developed their flavor, they are ready to be stored. Transfer the cherries and the syrup into a clean, airtight jar or container. Store the maraschino cherries in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Step 6: Enjoying Maraschino Cherries
Now that you have homemade maraschino cherries, you can use them to garnish your favorite cocktails, top desserts like ice cream or cheesecake, or even enjoy them on their own as a delicious treat. Get creative and explore different ways to incorporate these tasty cherries into your recipes!
By following these simple steps, you can create your own homemade maraschino cherries. Not only will you have the satisfaction of making them from scratch, but you’ll also enjoy the natural flavors without any artificial additives. Give it a try and elevate your drinks and desserts with these delightful homemade cherries!