Homemade Amarena Cherries in Syrup

This traditional Italian amarena cherries in syrup recipe simmers dark sweet cherries in thick almond-scented ruby syrup. Pure almond extract and sweet amaretto give signature tart complexity. They garnish gelato and decorate vintage cakes gorgeously.

Combine pitted sweet dark cherries, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, water, and amaretto in a heavy saucepan. Simmer gently over medium heat until sugar dissolves and cherries release juices. Cook slowly until syrup thickens.

Stir in pure almond extract and cool completely before transferring to sterile glass jars. Store in refrigerator for up to six months. For a chocolate cake pairing, bake this gluten free black forest cake.

Natacha

Homemade Amarena Cherries in Syrup

Rich Italian preserved dark cherries in almond-scented amaretto sugar syrup.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

Cherries and Syrup

• 1 lb fresh dark sweet cherries, pitted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup water
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp Disaronno amaretto liqueur
• 1 tsp pure almond extract

Method

 

1. Combine sugar, water, lemon juice, and amaretto in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until sugar completely dissolves and liquid comes to a gentle boil.
3. Add pitted cherries and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes until cherries soften and syrup thickens.
4. Remove from heat, stir in almond extract, and let cool to room temperature.
5. Pour cherries and syrup into clean mason jars and seal tightly.
6. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using over ice cream, cheesecake, or cocktails.