Ultimate Candied Cherries: A Sweet Adventure

These little gems are candied cherries, a treat perfect for baking and snacking. Learn how to use them in your own kitchen.

What Makes Candied Cherries So Special?

Candied cherries are not just any cherries. They go through a special process that makes them sweet and shiny. Glacé cherries, as they are also known, offer a unique flavor and texture. These treats are often used in cakes and cookies. They add a pop of color and a sweet flavor. You can find them in many baked goods.

How are Glacé Cherries Made?

The process of making candied cherries is quite interesting. First, fresh cherries get a soak in a sugar syrup. This process can take days. The sugar slowly replaces the water in the fruit. This results in the chewy, sweet cherry we all know. They can be red, green, or even gold. The colors come from added food coloring. Maraschino cherries, on the other hand, use a different process. They are often bleached and have a bright red color. Candied cherries are made with a slower, more careful process. This creates a unique product.

This recipe provides a detailed approach to making your own candied cherries, ensuring a delicious and satisfying result.

Yields: Approximately 1 pound of candied cherries
Prep time: 30 minutes (active), plus several days of soaking
Cook time: 15-20 minutes total, spread over several days

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh cherries (firm, ripe, and preferably with stems)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, but helps prevent crystallization)
• Food coloring (optional, gel food coloring is recommended)
• Flavor extracts, such as vanilla or almond (optional, a few drops)

Equipment:

• Medium saucepan
• Slotted spoon
• Wire rack
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Clean glass jars or airtight containers for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherries:
   • Begin by gently washing the fresh cherries. Rinse them under cool, running water.
   • Pat the cherries dry with a clean towel or paper towels.
   • If desired, use a cherry pitter to remove the pits. You can leave the stems on, if you prefer the look of it. This step is optional, but be aware that pitted cherries will absorb the syrup better.
2. Make the Sugar Syrup:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water.
   • Add the optional lemon juice to the mixture. Lemon juice will help prevent the sugar from crystalizing as it cooks.
   • Place the saucepan over medium heat.
   • Stir the mixture until the sugar has completely dissolved. This is important to ensure a smooth syrup.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Do not allow it to boil rapidly.
   • Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low.
3. First Syrup Infusion:
   • Carefully add the prepared cherries into the simmering syrup.
   • Make sure the cherries are fully submerged in the syrup. Use a spoon to gently move them around if needed.
   • Cook the cherries in the syrup for about 5 minutes. This allows the cherries to start absorbing the sugar.
   • Remove the saucepan from the heat.
   • Allow the cherries and syrup to cool completely at room temperature. This can take several hours or overnight. Do not move them.
4. Second Syrup Infusion:
   • The next day, place the saucepan back over low heat.
   • Gently bring the syrup and cherries back to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to boil too quickly.
   • Simmer again for about 5 minutes. This step is essential for the cherries to soak up more sugar.
   • Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool completely once more. This can take several hours or overnight. The cherries should be getting translucent.
5. Repeat the Process:
   • Repeat the simmering and cooling process for 2 to 4 days. This depends on how candied you want your cherries to be. This repetitive process helps the cherries to be fully saturated with sugar.
   • Each day, the cherries should look increasingly translucent. The syrup will get thicker.
   • You may notice the cherries absorbing most of the syrup. This means they are candied.
6. Add Optional Coloring and Flavors:
   • Before the final simmer, you can add optional food coloring and flavor extracts.
   • If using, add a few drops of gel food coloring to the syrup. Stir gently to ensure an even distribution of the color.
   • If using, add a few drops of flavor extracts (like vanilla or almond) to the syrup. Do this before the final simmer.
7. Final Simmer and Drying:
   • After the last cooling period, bring the mixture back to a simmer.
   • Simmer the cherries for a final 5 minutes.
   • Remove from heat.
   • Use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the cherries from the syrup.
   • Place them on a wire rack lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
   • Allow the cherries to dry completely at room temperature. This will typically take 12 to 24 hours. The cherries will be slightly sticky. This is normal.
8. Storage:
   • Once the candied cherries are fully dry, store them in clean glass jars or airtight containers.
   • Keep them in a cool, dry place.
   • They can last for several months if stored properly.

Tips for Success:

• Use firm, ripe cherries for the best results. They will hold their shape better during the process.
• Do not rush the process. The slow simmering and cooling are important for good candying.
• Make sure that the cherries are always fully submerged in the syrup during each step.
• Be gentle when handling the cherries to prevent them from breaking.
• Allow the cherries to dry fully before storing. This helps prevent them from sticking together.
• Use good quality food coloring if you are adding color. Gel food coloring usually gives a more vibrant color.
• Adjust the sugar amount to your preference. But remember that it is an important part of the preservation process.

Enjoy your homemade candied cherries! They are perfect for baking, snacking, or gifting.

The Many Uses of Candied Cherries

Candied cherries are very adaptable. They are often used in holiday baking. Think of fruitcakes and Christmas cookies. However, they are not just for the holidays. You can add them to muffins or scones. They also work well in a simple cake mix. Their bright color makes them a great garnish for desserts. Glacé cherries can even be used in savory dishes. Try adding them to a cheese board for a sweet surprise.

Candied Cherries Beyond Baking

Though known for baking, candied cherries have uses outside of it. Let’s take a look at other ways to use them:

Glacé Cherries in Savory Dishes

It may sound strange, but candied cherries can complement savory dishes. Try adding them to a salad. They pair well with cheeses and nuts. They also work as a glaze for cooked meats. Glacé cherries offer a nice sweet and savory taste. They create a balanced flavor profile. Use them in small amounts to elevate your dish.

Candied Cherries as a Snack

You can also enjoy candied cherries as a quick snack. They are sweet and satisfying. However, they can be quite sticky. This is because of the sugar coating. A few candied cherries make a great pick-me-up when you need something sweet. Consider keeping a small bowl of them in the fridge. This way you will always have a treat at your fingertips. They are a sweet treat for any occasion.

How to Store Candied Cherries

Proper storage ensures that candied cherries remain fresh. Store them in an airtight container. Keep them in a cool, dry place. Avoid keeping them near heat sources or in direct sunlight. They can last for many months when stored this way. They should be soft and pliable when fresh. If the cherries become hard, they might be going bad. So make sure to store them properly.

Exploring Candied Cherries in Different Cuisines

The use of candied cherries extends beyond just classic American baking. They are found in various culinary traditions around the world. Let’s see how different cultures use these sweet gems.

Glacé Cherries in European Baking

In Europe, candied cherries are a baking staple. They are a key part of many traditional cakes and pastries. In Italy, you often see them in panettone and cassata. These Italian baked goods feature a lot of candied fruit. Similarly, in France, they are used in fruit tarts and other desserts. They add a festive touch and a unique flavor. Candied cherries are an essential component of these recipes. They make every treat more special. The unique taste of glacé cherries is a cornerstone of European baking.

Asian Desserts Featuring Candied Cherries

In some Asian countries, candied cherries also make appearances. They are not as widely used as in Europe or America, but they offer a special flavor and visual appeal. Some bakeries use them in steamed buns or sweet breads. They are also used in special occasion desserts. In these culinary traditions, candied cherries add a burst of sweetness. Their bright colors make these treats more appealing. These uses of glacé cherries are unique. This speaks of their global appeal.

Candied Cherries in Latin American Dishes

In Latin America, candied cherries are used in a range of dishes. They can be found in some desserts and special occasion baked goods. They are often used in fruit salads and as toppings. They bring a sweet flavor and a pop of color. Glacé cherries are a great addition to both savory and sweet dishes. They have a special place in these culinary traditions.

Unique Ways to Use Candied Cherries

Beyond the usual baking and snacking, you can try some creative uses of candied cherries. These ideas might inspire you to try something new.

Glacé Cherries as a Cocktail Garnish

Candied cherries can make a cocktail even more special. They look very elegant in drinks. Add them to cocktails like Manhattans or Old Fashioneds. Their sweetness provides a nice touch. Glacé cherries are a unique choice for a garnish. They can enhance the visual presentation of any cocktail. It’s a fun and different way to use them.

Decorating with Candied Cherries

Use candied cherries to decorate more than just cakes. You can add them to cupcakes, brownies, and cookies. Their bright colors add an attractive visual element. They are also great for decorating ice cream sundaes. Their texture and sweetness can make any dessert more fun. They can elevate a simple treat into something special. Let your imagination run wild with candied cherries.

Candied Cherries in Gift Baskets

Add candied cherries to gift baskets for a personal touch. Include them along with other sweet treats. They are perfect for holiday or birthday gifts. They can make a gift basket more special. Glacé cherries show care and thoughtfulness. It is a unique and personal way to give a gift. Your thoughtful gesture will make your gift more memorable.

The History of Candied Cherries

The process of making candied cherries has a long history. It has evolved over time from practical preservation to a much more sophisticated culinary treat.

Ancient Methods of Preserving Fruits

The idea of preserving fruit in sugar is ancient. It began as a way to extend the life of fruits. This was done long before modern refrigeration. Early methods involved soaking fruits in honey. Over time, they began using sugar. These early techniques were very effective. They made it possible to enjoy fruits out of season. This process led to the creation of candied cherries.

Evolution of Glacé Cherries Over Time

Over the centuries, the process of making candied cherries became more refined. Better techniques led to better tasting and looking glacé cherries. They began to be used more for their flavor than just for preservation. Candied cherries became a popular treat. They can be used in many baking and cooking methods. The history of candied cherries is fascinating.

Modern Uses of Candied Cherries

Today, candied cherries are still popular. They are an essential element in many baked goods. They are also a great addition to other recipes. They continue to be enjoyed around the world. Glacé cherries are a timeless treat, enjoyed by many. Their place in culinary history is well deserved. They remain a beloved and versatile ingredient.

Buying and Selecting Candied Cherries

When purchasing candied cherries, consider a few things. This will ensure you get the best possible product for your needs.

Checking for Quality

First, look at the color and the texture. Fresh candied cherries are vibrant and soft. Avoid packages with cherries that look dull or hard. Check the packaging to see when they were made. Newer packages are usually better. The quality of your candied cherries greatly affects the outcome of your recipes.

Understanding Packaging

Candied cherries come in different types of packaging. Some come in bags or jars. Some can also be found in bulk. Consider how you will use the cherries. If you are only using a few at a time, a smaller package will be better. However, if you use them often, a larger package might be a better choice. Also, it’s good to look at the package sealing to be sure it is secure. Secure packaging helps maintain freshness.

Choosing the Right Type for Your Recipe

Before buying candied cherries, consider what you will use them for. The texture and color might matter depending on the recipe. For cakes, softer cherries may be best. For garnishing, you might want brighter colors. Knowing what you will use them for can help make your purchasing decision. Choose cherries that fit well in your recipes.

Conclusion

Candied cherries are a truly versatile treat. They are a great addition to baking and other recipes. They have a rich history and a unique flavor. Glacé cherries are useful in both sweet and savory dishes. They add a festive touch. From simple snacks to sophisticated desserts, they have many uses. Whether you use them for baking or garnishing, they will add a touch of sweetness to your next recipe. Enjoy this timeless treat in many ways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are candied cherries called?

Candied cherries are also called glacé cherries. They have different names depending on where you live. These are both the same thing. They are preserved cherries that have been made sweet using sugar. You may hear them being called crystallized cherries as well.

What is the difference between maraschino cherries and candied cherries?

The difference lies in the way they are made. Maraschino cherries are often bleached and dyed. They have a bright, artificial red color. Candied cherries are made with a slow, sugar-soaking process. They can be red, green, or gold. They also have a different flavor and texture than maraschino cherries.

Why are candied cherries so expensive?

The process of making candied cherries takes time. This process increases the cost of making them. Fresh cherries are also costly depending on the season. The cost can also be affected by packaging. High-quality candied cherries are often handmade in small batches.

Are candied cherries healthy?

Candied cherries are a treat. They are not known for being healthy. The high sugar content makes them something to eat in moderation. They do not offer the same nutritional benefits as fresh cherries. Be aware of this and enjoy them as an occasional sweet