Roundy's · 5 g
Sweet Maraschino Cherries
What it is
These are bright red, sweet cherries preserved in a syrup. They are typically made from fresh cherries that have been pitted, bleached, and then soaked in a sugar syrup. The syrup often contains flavoring and coloring agents to give them their distinctive taste and vibrant hue. They are a popular garnish and ingredient in many desserts and drinks, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
How people cook with it
Maraschino cherries are a versatile addition to both sweet and savory creations.
- Garnish for cocktails
- Topping for ice cream
- Decoration for cakes
- Ingredient in baked goods
You can use maraschino cherries straight from the jar as a garnish for drinks like Manhattans or Shirley Temples. They are also excellent as a topping for sundaes, milkshakes, and other frozen desserts. For baking, they can be chopped and added to cakes, muffins, or fruit salads. Their sweet, slightly almond-like flavor complements many desserts, and their bright color makes any dish more festive. Drain them from their syrup before adding to most recipes to control sweetness.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike fresh cherries, maraschino cherries are preserved and sweetened, giving them a much longer shelf life and a distinctively sugary flavor. Their texture is also softer due to the preservation process. They are processed to achieve their uniform bright red color, which fresh cherries do not possess naturally.
Who it is for
Home bakers and cocktail enthusiasts often keep these on hand for special occasions and everyday treats.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any remaining maraschino cherries in their original syrup in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out or absorbing other flavors. They can typically be stored this way for several weeks.