Brandied Cherries Recipe

Brandied cherries are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with the rich and warming flavor of brandy. This recipe has a long history and has been enjoyed for generations. Let's dive into the details of how to make this delicious concoction.

In order to make the perfect brandied cherries, it is important to select the largest and ripest sweet cherries available. Leaving the stems on not only adds a touch of elegance but also helps to preserve the cherries while they soak in the brandy-infused syrup. You will need about half a pound of sugar for every pound of cherries, and a pint of good brandy for every five pounds of fruit.

To begin, make a syrup by combining the sugar and a small amount of water in a saucepan. It's best to use as little water as possible to avoid diluting the flavors. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved, creating a sweet and sticky syrup.

Next, pour the syrup over the cherries, ensuring that they are completely submerged. Let the cherries soak in the syrup overnight, allowing them to absorb the sweetness and flavors of the syrup.

The following day, transfer the cherries and syrup to a preserving kettle or a large pot. Heat the cherries slowly over low heat, taking care not to cook them too quickly or they may become mushy. Allow them to simmer gently for about eight minutes, just long enough for the cherries to soften slightly and release some of their juices.

Using a perforated skimmer or a slotted spoon, carefully remove the cherries from the pot, allowing any excess syrup to drain back into the pot. Set the cherries aside for now.

Return the syrup to the heat and boil it for about fifteen minutes. This allows the syrup to thicken and concentrate its flavors. The syrup will become slightly darker and more viscous, providing a luscious coating for the cherries.

Now it's time to introduce the star of the show, the brandy. Add the pint of brandy to the boiling syrup, and stir gently to combine. The brandy not only adds a delightful depth of flavor but also acts as a preservative, ensuring the cherries remain fresh and delicious.

Remove the pot from the heat and pour the hot syrup and brandy mixture over the cherries. Be careful not to splash yourself as the hot liquid is poured. The cherries should be completely submerged in the syrup, allowing them to soak and infuse with the brandy flavor.

To preserve the brandied cherries, it is important to seal the jars properly. Choose clean, sterilized jars with airtight lids. Fill the jars with the cherries, making sure each jar contains an appropriate amount of cherries and syrup.

Seal the jars tightly and let them cool to room temperature. As the jars cool, a vacuum seal will form, ensuring the preservation of the cherries. Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks before enjoying. This will allow the flavors to meld and the cherries to become even more delectable.

Now that we have learned how to make brandied cherries, let's explore some fun facts about this delightful treat.

- Brandied cherries were first popularized in the late 19th century when cherries were abundant during the summer harvest season.
- The use of brandy in preserving cherries not only enhances their flavor but also acts as a natural preservative, allowing them to be enjoyed throughout the year.
- Brandied cherries are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dessert, used to top ice cream or cheesecake, or incorporated into cocktails like the classic Manhattan.

If you're looking to explore similar recipe dishes, you might want to try making homemade maraschino cherries. Maraschino cherries are made by soaking cherries in a syrup flavored with maraschino liqueur. They have a unique flavor and texture that can add a special touch to numerous desserts and cocktails.

Another delicious option is to make cherry liqueur. Similar to brandied cherries, cherry liqueur infuses cherries with alcohol. The cherries become plump and flavorful, while the liqueur takes on the sweet and tart taste of the fruit. This homemade liqueur can be sipped on its own or used to enhance various recipes.

In conclusion, brandied cherries are a delectable treat that combines sweet cherries with the warm and rich flavor of brandy. This recipe has a long history and is loved by many. Whether enjoyed on its own, as a topping, or in cocktails, brandied cherries bring a burst of fruity and boozy flavors to any dish. So give this recipe a try and savor the delightful taste of homemade brandied cherries.