These Easy Homemade Amaretto Cherries are a sweet treat that pairs perfectly with drinks or desserts. Juicy cherries soak in amaretto, creating a flavor that’s simply delightful!
I’ll admit, I often snack on these cherries when I’m prepping cocktails—they’re just too tasty! Plus, making them at home is super simple and you’ll impress your friends for sure! 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh cherries are best for this recipe. I recommend using dark sweet cherries like Bing for their rich flavor. If they’re out of season, frozen cherries can work too—just thaw and drain them before using.
Amaretto Liqueur: While any brand of amaretto will work, Lazzaroni offers a classic flavor. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can use almond extract mixed with a bit of water or syrup to mimic the taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is traditional, but you can try using brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor. For a healthier alternative, agave syrup can also be a great substitute—just adjust the quantity since it’s sweeter.
Water: This helps dissolve the sugar in the syrup. If you want a flavored twist, consider using a splash of cherry juice instead of some of the water to enhance the cherry flavor.
How to Properly Marinate Cherries for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the cherries is crucial for achieving that delicious amaretto taste. Here are some key steps:
- Be sure to use a clean jar to avoid contamination. Sterilizing your jar beforehand ensures longer shelf life for your cherries.
- Make sure the cherries are fully submerged in the syrup. This helps them absorb the flavor evenly.
- Let the cherries marinate in the fridge for a minimum of 24 hours—2-3 days is even better! The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.
- Store them in the fridge. They can last for weeks, but trust me, they usually don’t last that long!
Easy Homemade Amaretto Cherries (Lazzaroni Copycat)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted (dark sweet cherries like Bing)
- 1 cup amaretto liqueur
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 24 hours to marinate in the fridge—better if you can wait 2-3 days for the full flavor to develop. It’s an easy, hands-off process that leads to a deliciously sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cherries:
Start by washing the fresh cherries thoroughly. Then, pit them carefully with a cherry pitter or a sharp knife. It’s important to keep them whole for the best flavor and presentation!
2. Make the Simple Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Once it’s done, take it off the heat and let it cool for a moment.
3. Add Flavoring:
Pour in the amaretto liqueur into the sugar syrup, along with the vanilla extract if you’re using it. Stir well to mix all the ingredients together. The syrup should smell wonderfully sweet and aromatic!
4. Combine Cherries and Syrup:
Take a clean glass jar or an airtight container and pack the pitted cherries inside. Carefully pour the amaretto syrup over the cherries, ensuring they are fully submerged to soak up all that delicious flavor.
5. Marinate:
Seal the jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let the cherries marinate for at least 24 hours, but for the best taste, try to hold off for 2-3 days. That patience will definitely pay off!
6. Serve:
Once the cherries have marinated, they can be served in many delightful ways. Use them as a garnish for cocktails, a topping for desserts like ice cream or cakes, or just enjoy them straight out of the jar as a sweet snack. They are delicious!
Enjoy your homemade Lazzaroni-style amaretto cherries! 🍒
FAQ for Easy Homemade Amaretto Cherries
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries can work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the syrup.
How Long Do These Cherries Last?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the amaretto cherries can last for up to a month. However, they are best enjoyed within the first couple of weeks for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Syrup?
Yes! If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar to 1/4 cup or even use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar. Just keep in mind that this may affect the overall flavor and syrup consistency.
What Can I Use Instead of Amaretto Liqueur?
If you want a non-alcoholic version, consider using almond extract mixed with a bit of water or cherry juice to mimic the amaretto flavor. Adjust the proportions according to your taste preference!
