These Easy Homemade Amaretto Cherries are like little jars of happiness! Juicy cherries soaked in sweet amaretto create a wonderful treat that’s full of flavor.
Perfect for snacking or adding to drinks, they’re super simple to make. I love tossing these into a glass of soda or munching them straight from the jar. You’ll feel like a kitchen superstar when you make these!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh cherries are best for this recipe. They add natural sweetness and juice. If cherries are out of season, frozen pitted cherries can work too! Just let them thaw before using.
Amaretto Liqueur: This gives the cherries their lovely nutty flavor. If you want a non-alcoholic version, you can use almond extract mixed with water or juice for a similar taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard here, but you can try brown sugar for a deeper flavor. If you’re cutting back on sugar, use a sweetener like agave or honey, keeping in mind it might change the flavor slightly.
Water: This is used to create the simple syrup. You can replace it with fruit juice like cherry or apple juice for added flavor.
How Do You Safely Prepare and Store Cherries?
Preparing the cherries correctly ensures maximum flavor and safety during storage. Start by washing them thoroughly and carefully removing the pits. This assists in absorbing the amaretto flavor and prevents choking hazards.
- For easy pitting, a cherry pitter works wonders, but a small knife can do the trick as well. Just cut around the cherry and twist gently.
- After prepping, place the cherries straight into a clean jar for soaking. Make sure the jar is airtight to preserve freshness and flavors.
- Letting them soak for 24 to 48 hours allows the cherries to absorb the sweet almond flavor, enhancing their taste.
Store the cherries in the fridge for up to two weeks to keep them fresh and tasty! Enjoy them in drinks or desserts—a real treat in every bite.
Easy Homemade Amaretto Cherries (Lazzaroni Copycat)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup amaretto liqueur
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or a splash of almond extract for enhanced flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and at least 24 hours for soaking (48 hours is best for maximum flavor). In total, plan for about two days before you can fully enjoy these delectable cherries!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Cherries:
Start by washing the fresh cherries thoroughly to remove any dirt. Next, pit the cherries using a cherry pitter or a knife. This step is important as it allows the syrup to soak into the cherries better. Once pitted, place the cherries in a clean glass jar or container that can be sealed tightly.
2. Making the Simple Syrup:
In a small saucepan, mix the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir actively until the sugar has completely dissolved, creating a sweet syrup. This should only take a few minutes. Be careful not to let it boil; just melting the sugar is all you need!
3. Combining with Amaretto:
Once your syrup is ready, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. After it has cooled, stir in the amaretto liqueur and if you’re using it, the vanilla or almond extract to enhance the flavor.
4. Soaking the Cherries:
Pour the amaretto syrup over the cherries in the jar, carefully making sure all of them are submerged. Seal the jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator. This soaking process allows the cherries to absorb all those delicious flavors.
5. Enjoying Your Cherries:
After letting your cherries soak for at least 24 hours (or 48 hours for more flavor!), they’re ready to enjoy! You can use them in cocktails, desserts, or simply snack on them straight from the jar.
6. Storing Your Cherries:
Keep the jar sealed in the refrigerator and use the cherries within two weeks for the best taste and freshness. Enjoy your sweet, almond-infused treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used! Just make sure to thaw them completely before pitting and soaking. They may be a bit softer in texture, but they will still absorb the amaretto flavor beautifully.
How Long Should I Let the Cherries Soak?
For the best flavor, let the cherries soak for at least 24 hours, but 48 hours is recommended. This allows them to fully absorb the sweetness of the syrup and the almond essence of the amaretto.
Can I Adjust the Sugar Level in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar. Just keep in mind that it may affect the overall flavor balance. You can also substitute with a sweetener of your choice, but results may vary.
How Do I Store Leftover Cherries?
Store any leftover cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should remain fresh for up to two weeks. Make sure they stay submerged in the syrup to preserve their flavor and texture.
