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Red Candied Cherries Recipe: Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
Youssef Hb

Red Candied Cherries

Succulent red cherries bathed in a sweet, caramelized syrup are the perfect sweet treat for breakfast or holiday platters. Made in one pot without alcohol or pork products, this easy, family-friendly recipe is ideal for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DESSERTS
Cuisine: International
Calories: 125
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups unpitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ¼ tsp almond extract (vanilla extract may be substituted)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C). Use cherry pitter or remove pits manually and refrigerate cherries for 30 minutes.
  2. In a large enamel saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
  3. Add refrigerated cherries to the syrup base. Return to a simmer for 1-2 minutes, then reduce heat to low.
  4. Let the mixture gently simmer for 75 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes until the syrup thickens. Handle the saucepan carefully during caramelization.
  5. Allow the cherries to cool completely (4-6 hours). Transfer to sterilized glass jars with airtight lids and refrigerate for up to 6 months.

Notes

Always refrigerate after opening
Use freshly picked cherries within 24 hours for best flavor
Simmering time can be adjusted in 5-10 minute increments based on desired syrup consistency