Maraschino cherries
Bright red, syrupy-sweet candied cherries, brined then dyed and sugared — a garnish, not a fresh-fruit substitute. The syrup itself is often used in cocktails and desserts too.
Used for
- cocktails
- sundaes
- cake decoration
- fruitcake
In the kitchen
- pat dry before using as a garnish so syrup doesn't bleed into frosting
- chop for baking into batters
- save the syrup — it's useful in cocktails
Picking it at the store
- Stemmed ones cost more but look nicer for garnishing a finished drink or dessert
- Check the ingredient list if avoiding artificial dye — some 'natural' versions use beet juice for color instead
Related terms
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