Old Fashioned Cherries: A Sweet Taste of History

jonson
14 Min Read

Welcome to the wonderful world of old fashioned cherries! If you’ve ever enjoyed a classic cocktail, a decadent dessert, or a rich ice cream sundae, chances are you’ve encountered these delightful little red gems. They are more than just a garnish; they are a key ingredient that brings a unique sweetness and a touch of nostalgia to any dish. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these iconic cherries, from their history to how you can make your own at home. We will explore what makes them different from other preserved cherries and why they remain a favorite for bartenders and home cooks alike. Get ready to discover the rich flavor and tradition packed into every single one of these special fruits.

Key Takeaways

  • What They Are: Old fashioned cherries are typically high-quality cherries, like Luxardo or Amarena, preserved in a rich, flavorful syrup, unlike the bright red, artificially flavored maraschino cherries.
  • Why They’re Better: They offer a more complex, authentic cherry flavor that enhances cocktails and desserts without overpowering them with artificial sweetness.
  • Versatility: These cherries are perfect for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan, as well as for topping desserts like cheesecake, ice cream, and black forest cake.
  • DIY Potential: Making your own batch of old fashioned cherries at home is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to control the ingredients and flavor profile.

What Exactly Are Old Fashioned Cherries?

When someone mentions old fashioned cherries, they are referring to a style of preserved cherry that is vastly different from the common, bright-red maraschino cherry you might find in a grocery store’s ice cream aisle. These are premium, dark-colored cherries that are preserved in a thick, flavorful syrup. The most famous types are Luxardo Maraschino Cherries and Amarena Fabbri cherries, both hailing from Italy. Unlike their neon-red cousins, which are bleached, dyed, and soaked in high-fructose corn syrup, old fashioned cherries retain much of their natural color, texture, and taste. They are often smaller, denser, and have a complex flavor that is both sweet and slightly tart. The syrup they are packed in is also a culinary treasure, made from the cherry juice itself, sugar, and sometimes spices or a touch of liquor, making it a fantastic addition to drinks and sauces.

The History Behind the Garnish

The story of the cocktail cherry is a fascinating one that reflects changes in food production and consumer tastes over the last century. Originally, “maraschino” cherries were Marasca cherries from the Dalmatian coast, preserved in their own liqueur. These were the original old fashioned cherries, a true delicacy. However, during Prohibition in the United States, the alcohol-based preservation method became illegal. This led to American producers developing a new, non-alcoholic method. They used local cherries, like the Queen Anne variety, which were brined, bleached, and then dyed bright red with food coloring and sweetened with corn syrup. This new creation became the standard maraschino cherry we know today. Thankfully, the classic, European-style preserved cherries made a comeback and are now cherished by those who appreciate authentic flavor and quality ingredients in their food and drinks.

The Difference Between Old Fashioned and Maraschino Cherries

It’s easy to get confused, but the distinction is crucial for anyone who appreciates quality. The primary differences lie in the type of cherry used, the preservation process, and the final flavor profile. Standard maraschino cherries are designed for a long shelf life and a uniform, vibrant appearance, sacrificing natural flavor for visual appeal.

On the other hand, old fashioned cherries prioritize taste and texture. They begin with superior cherry varieties known for their rich flavor. The preservation process is much gentler, aiming to enhance the fruit’s natural characteristics rather than completely transform it. This results in a product that tastes like, well, a cherry—a very delicious, sophisticated cherry.

Feature

Old Fashioned Cherries (e.g., Luxardo)

Standard Maraschino Cherries

Color

Dark, deep red to nearly black

Bright, artificial neon red

Flavor

Complex, rich, sweet-tart, authentic cherry

Very sweet, candy-like, almond extract flavor

Texture

Firm, dense, chewy

Soft, sometimes mushy

Syrup

Thick, dark, flavorful, made from cherry juice

Thin, sugary, artificially flavored

Ingredients

Cherries, sugar, cherry juice, natural flavors

Cherries, corn syrup, water, artificial flavor, red dye

The Perfect Pairing: The Old Fashioned Cocktail

It’s no coincidence that these cherries share their name with one of the most iconic cocktails in history. The Old Fashioned cocktail—a simple, elegant mix of whiskey, sugar, and bitters—is the perfect vehicle for a high-quality cherry. An old fashioned cherry doesn’t just sit at the bottom of the glass; it contributes to the drink’s overall flavor profile. As you sip, the rich syrup slowly melds with the whiskey, adding a subtle layer of dark fruit sweetness that complements the spirit’s character. The cherry itself is the perfect final bite, a boozy, sweet treat to end the experience. Using a standard maraschino cherry in a well-made Old Fashioned would be a disservice, as its artificial sweetness would clash with the sophisticated flavors of the whiskey and bitters.

How to Make Your Own Old Fashioned Cherries

Why buy when you can DIY? Making your own old fashioned cherries is surprisingly simple and allows you to customize the flavor to your exact liking. It’s a great project for late summer when fresh cherries are abundant.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 pounds of fresh sweet cherries (like Bing or Lambert), pitted
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1/2 cup of bourbon or brandy (optional, but recommended)
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 star anise
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cherries: Start by washing and pitting your fresh cherries. A cherry pitter is a huge time-saver here!
  2. Create the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and star anise. Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean into the pot and add the pod as well. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  3. Cook the Cherries: Add the pitted cherries to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to low and let the cherries gently simmer in the syrup for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy.
  4. Add the Spirit: If you are using bourbon or brandy, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the alcohol. This step is optional but adds a wonderful depth of flavor and helps with preservation.
  5. Jar and Store: Let the mixture cool slightly. Remove the cinnamon stick, star anise, and vanilla pod. Carefully transfer the cherries and their syrup into clean, sterilized glass jars. Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator. They will be good for several weeks, and the flavor will only get better with time.

Beyond the Cocktail Glass: Other Uses

While they are famous for their role in cocktails, the uses for old fashioned cherries extend far beyond the bar. Their rich, complex flavor makes them a fantastic ingredient in the kitchen. Think of them as a gourmet upgrade for any recipe that calls for cherries.

Desserts and Baking

These cherries are a game-changer in desserts. You can chop them up and fold them into brownie or cookie batter for a burst of deep cherry flavor. They are also the perfect topping for a classic New York cheesecake or a simple bowl of vanilla ice cream. For a truly show-stopping dessert, use them in a Black Forest cake. The authentic cherry taste pairs beautifully with the deep chocolate and light whipped cream, creating a much more sophisticated dessert than one made with canned cherry pie filling.

Savory Applications

Don’t limit these gems to sweet dishes! The sweet-tart profile of old fashioned cherries can also complement savory foods. A sauce made from their syrup can be drizzled over roasted duck or pork tenderloin, creating a beautiful sweet and savory glaze. They can also be a surprising and delicious addition to a cheese board, pairing wonderfully with sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or salty blue cheese. Their versatility is truly remarkable, as highlighted in food trends discussed on platforms like https://siliconvalleytime.co.uk/.

Where to Buy the Best Old Fashioned Cherries

If you’re not up for making your own, there are many excellent brands of old fashioned cherries available for purchase. You can often find them in specialty food stores, well-stocked liquor stores, or online.

Top Brands to Look For:

  • Luxardo Maraschino Cherries: This is the gold standard. These Italian cherries are dense, chewy, and packed in a thick, nutty-flavored syrup. They are an investment, but a jar lasts a long time.
  • Amarena Fabbri: Another Italian classic, these are wild cherries preserved in a rich syrup. They are a bit softer and sweeter than Luxardos, with a distinct, fruity flavor.
  • Traverse City Whiskey Co. Premium Cocktail Cherries: An American option from Michigan, these are large cherries soaked in whiskey, offering a boozy kick perfect for cocktails.
  • Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries: These cherries are flavored with Woodford Reserve bourbon, giving them a unique flavor profile with notes of vanilla and oak.

When shopping, read the label. Look for ingredients like cherries, sugar, and natural flavorings. Avoid products with high-fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes like Red No. 40.

Conclusion

The journey of the old fashioned cherry from a European delicacy to a modern-day craft cocktail staple is a testament to its timeless appeal. More than just a simple garnish, it is an ingredient that carries a legacy of quality and authentic flavor. Whether you’re stirring them into a classic cocktail, spooning them over a decadent dessert, or even trying your hand at making your own, these rich, dark gems offer a taste experience that the common maraschino simply cannot match. By choosing a high-quality preserved cherry, you elevate your creations and connect with a long tradition of culinary excellence. So next time you’re mixing a drink or baking a cake, reach for the real deal and taste the delicious difference for yourself.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are old fashioned cherries alcoholic?
A: Some brands, particularly those marketed as “bourbon cherries,” are preserved with alcohol. Traditional Italian brands like Luxardo are preserved in a syrup made from Marasca cherry liqueur, so they contain a small amount of alcohol. However, you can easily make a non-alcoholic version at home.

Q: Can I use old fashioned cherries in place of fresh cherries in a recipe?
A: It depends on the recipe. For baked goods like pies, fresh or frozen cherries are usually better. But for sauces, toppings, or recipes where the syrupy, preserved flavor is a benefit, old fashioned cherries are an excellent and convenient substitute.

Q: How long do homemade old fashioned cherries last?
A: When stored properly in a sealed jar in the refrigerator, homemade cherries will last for at least a month. If you added a spirit like bourbon, they could last even longer, as the alcohol acts as an additional preservative.

Q: Are old fashioned cherries healthy?
A: While they are made from real fruit, they are preserved in a sugar-heavy syrup, making them a high-sugar treat. They are best enjoyed in moderation as a special indulgence rather than a health food.

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