Description
A sweet topping for any dessert, these homemade maraschino cherries are tart yet sweet, and flavored with citrus and spices.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise pod
- 2 large lemons, juiced (about 1/2 cup juice)
- 1 large navel orange, peeled and juiced (about 1/2 cup juice)
- 1 pound whole fresh cherries, stemmed and pitted (Bing, Rainier, Black)
Instructions
- Combine the water, sugar, salt, cinnamon stick, star anise pod, lemon juice, orange juice, and orange peel in a large skillet. Heat the skillet over high heat and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and allow the ingredients to gently simmer until the sugar has dissolved, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the cherries, and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced enough to the consistency of a thin syrup.
- Once the syrup is ready, immediately pour the mixture into a large, heatproof bowl. Allow to cool completely, stirring occasionally.
- Once cooled, remove and dispose of the spices and citrus peel. Transfer the ingredients to a clean large glass jar or airtight container and cover tightly. Place the jar or container in the refrigerator and let them soak for at least three days before consuming.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Fruit
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Condiment
Keywords: maraschino, cherries