How to preserve maraschino cherries optimally

Maraschino cherries are a type of candied fruit that is made with cherries and maraschino liqueur, which is obtained from the distillation of marasca cherries. This variety of sour and aromatic cherries provides a very different flavor and is commonly used in baking, cocktails and gastronomy in general due to its attractive color and texture.

Maraschino cherries require proper conservation to maintain their exquisite flavor and in this post we are going to explain how to preserve maraschino cherries in an optimal way.

How are maraschino cherries made?

There are many ways to make maraschino cherries. Here we are going to see the most traditional one in the following steps:

• Step 1: The cherries, preferably fresh and ripe, are washed and pitted. The stems can be left or removed.
• Step 2: A syrup is prepared with water and sugar, to which a vanilla pod, a cinnamon stick, a pinch of nutmeg and lemon juice are added. Bring it to a boil and let it cook for a few minutes.
• Step 3: Add maraschino liqueur to the syrup and mix well. You can use the original liquor or a similar one, such as brandy or kirsch.
• Step 4: Add the cherries to the syrup and let them cook over low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then remove it from the heat and let it cool.
• Step 5: The maraschino cherries are packed in sterilized glass jars and covered with the syrup, then sealed and stored in a cool, dark place.

How to preserve maraschino cherries

It must be said that maraschino cherries are preserved naturally thanks to sugar and alcohol, since they act as natural preservatives. However, some tips must be taken into account so that they last longer and keep all their properties intact. These are some recommendations:

• Temperature and environment

  It is preferable to store the jars in a cool, dry and dark place, away from any light or heat source. Therefore, it is important to choose a suitable storage environment for maraschino cherries, with a temperature ranging between 10ºC and 15ºC.

• Humidity

  Humidity control is very important for maraschino cherries. A small amount of absorbent paper can be placed in the bottom of the container to prevent moisture from accumulating and affecting the texture of the cherries.

• Regular rotation

  Regular rotation of the cherries ensures that they will all receive uniform exposure to the storage environment, so it is important to gently rotate the jars from time to time. This helps avoid pressure points and achieve more balanced conservation.

Other important aspects must also be taken into account for optimal conservation of maraschino cherries:

• Clean and sterilized glass jars must be used, which can be boiled in water or placed in the oven. The jars should have a lid that fits tightly and is free of rust or cracks.
• The jar must be fill to the brim, with the cherries and syrup inside, leaving as little air space as possible. The jars can be tapped gently to remove air bubbles.
• It is recommended to label the jars with the production date and the content, to keep track of the conservation time.
• Maraschino cherries should be consumed within one year from its preparation, although they can last longer if kept in good condition. Once the jars have been opened, it is recommended to store in the refrigerator and consume within two weeks.

How do professionals use maraschino cherries?

Maraschino cherries are very versatile and can be used in many ways in the kitchen. These are some of the most common ones that professionals use:

• To decorate cakes, pastries, ice cream, puddings, mousses, creams, yogurts, etc.
• To fill sponge cakes, muffins, croissants, puff pastries, etc.
• As an ingredient in fruit salads, compotes, jams, etc.
• To accompany cheeses, foie gras, pâtés, etc.
• As a dressing for meats, poultry, fish, shellfish, etc.
• As part of cocktails as famous as Manhattan, Old Fashioned, Daiquiri, Martini, etc.

Quality maraschino cherries for professionals

Maraschino cherries are a delicious product that allows chefs and pastry chefs to have them available all year round to make their creations. Furthermore, if they are preserved properly, they can last a long time and all their properties are used much better.

In Lazaya Preserved Fruit we have our own cherry plantation and we supervise the entire manufacturing process from fruit collection to final packaging. In addition, we offer a multitude of formats of maraschino cherries, with different sizes and brix, with or without stem and with aroma. Additionally, professionals can choose from different packaging to suit their needs, such as plastic, tinplate and glass that will help preserve maraschino cherries in an appropriate manner.

Do not doubt to contact us if what you want is to have maraschino cherries of the highest quality for your establishment. We can customize your order and answer any questions you may have. Talk later?