These Easy Homemade Amaretto Cherries are a sweet treat! They mix juicy cherries with smooth amaretto to create a delightful snack or a lovely drink garnish.
They’re perfect for sharing, but trust me, you might want to keep them all to yourself! I love adding them to desserts or just enjoying them straight from the jar. 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh cherries are essential for this recipe. I prefer dark sweet cherries like Bing for their rich flavor. If they’re out of season, frozen cherries can work too—just thaw and drain them before use.
Amaretto Liqueur: Amaretto gives these cherries their signature sweet and nutty flavor. If you need a non-alcoholic option, consider using almond extract in place of amaretto, but reduce the amount to 1-2 tablespoons since it’s more concentrated.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is used here, but if you prefer a natural sweetener, try honey or maple syrup. Just remember to adjust the liquid amount since these options can add moisture.
Vanilla Extract: This is optional, but I love using it for an extra depth of flavor. If you’re out of vanilla, almond extract would pair well too—just use it sparingly.
How Do I Properly Pit Cherries?
Pitting cherries can seem tricky, but with the right technique, it’s easy! Here’s how:
- Use a cherry pitter if you have one; it makes the job quick and mess-free.
- If you don’t have a pitter, try cutting the cherry in half and twisting to remove the pit gently.
- Always be cautious, as the juice can stain and may splatter. Use an apron or have a cloth handy to clean up any spills.
Pitting cherries properly ensures they soak up flavor in the syrup. Enjoy making these delicious cherries!
Easy Homemade Amaretto Cherries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted (dark, sweet cherries like Bing)
- 1 cup amaretto liqueur
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes of active prep time, plus at least 24 hours in the fridge to let the flavors meld. It’s worth the wait for the sweet and boozy cherries!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cherries:
Start by washing your fresh cherries thoroughly. Once they’re clean, use a cherry pitter to pit them, leaving the cherries whole. If you don’t have a pitter, you can slice them in half and gently twist to remove the pit. Just be careful; the juice can stain!
2. Create the Simple Syrup:
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Keep stirring until the sugar completely dissolves, creating a shiny simple syrup. This should take just a few minutes.
3. Add the Cherries:
Now, add the pitted cherries to the saucepan with the syrup. Simmer the cherries in the syrup for about 5 minutes. This will help soften them slightly and allow them to soak up the syrupy goodness!
4. Stir in the Amaretto:
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the amaretto liqueur and, if you want some extra flavor, the vanilla extract. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
5. Cool and Store:
Let the cherry mixture cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer the cherries and syrup into a clean jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure everything is well covered with the syrup.
6. Chill and Enjoy:
Pop the jar into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 24 hours. This time allows all those fantastic flavors to blend together. When you’re ready to enjoy, serve the cherries chilled. They make a fabulous garnish for cocktails or desserts, or you can just snack on them as a sweet treat!
Be sure to store the cherries in the fridge, and enjoy them within 2 weeks. These tender, boozy cherries are truly a treat in every bite! 🍒
FAQ for Easy Homemade Amaretto Cherries
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain excess moisture before adding them to the syrup. They may be softer, but they will still taste delicious!
How Long Do the Amaretto Cherries Last in the Fridge?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these cherries will last for about 2 weeks. Enjoy them within this timeframe for the best flavor and quality!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Cherries?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar in the recipe to taste. Start with 1/4 cup of sugar and adjust from there, keeping in mind that the amaretto adds some sweetness too.
What’s the Best Way to Use Amaretto Cherries?
These cherries are versatile! Use them as a garnish for cocktails, top desserts like ice cream or cheesecake, or simply enjoy them straight from the jar as a delightful treat!
