Maraschino cherries and maraschino Morello cherries: everything you need to know

Maraschino morello cherries and maraschino cherries are two delicious options in the world of candied fruits that have managed to seduce professionals and also consumers. Both have a unique flavor and are used in a wide variety of recipes, although they also have their differences.

In this post we are going to explain in detail what maraschino morello (or sour) cherries are, all their properties and what are the main differences between sweet cherries and morello cherries.

What are maraschino morello cherries?

Morello cherries are small red fruits that belong to the cherry family, specifically, the Prunus cerasus. These fruits are characterized by their sweet and sour flavor and their distinctive bright red color. They are commonly used in the preparation of cocktails and desserts, thanks to their unique flavor and their ability to absorb the syrup or liquor in which they are preserved.

Properties of maraschino morello cherries

They are not only delicious in desserts and cocktails, they also offer many nutritional and general health benefits. Let’s see some of its main features:

1. Antioxidants

   Morello cherries are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and anthocyanins. These nutrients help prevent progressive oxidation in the body and can help with cardiovascular health and cognitive functions.

2. Low in calories

   Maraschino morello cherries are an excellent choice for a consumer profile that increasingly opts for low-calorie fruits, since this variety is lower in calories than other canned fruits. This makes them a suitable option for use in a wide variety of desserts and savory dishes.

3. Unique flavor

   The bittersweet flavor makes them ideal for giving a special and unique touch to all types of desserts and cocktails. Its unique flavor provides greater depth and contrast to a wide variety of dishes and desserts by professionals in Horeca establishments.

Differences between maraschino morello cherries and maraschino cherries

While morello cherries and cherries share some similarities, they also have significant differences that most professionals are aware of. Let’s see them:

1. Different species of fruit

   The most notable difference lies in the species of fruit to which they belong. Maraschino morello cherries come from the variety Prunus cerasus, while maraschino cherries come from the variety Prunus avium. This difference in species influences its flavor and texture, since morello cherries tend to be more bittersweet and have a firmer flesh than cherries.

2. Size and shape

   Morello cherries are smaller and usually oval-shaped, while maraschino cherries are larger and rounder. This difference in size and shape also influences when using them in the kitchen, since morello cherries are ideal for decorating cocktails and cakes due to their smaller size and cherries are used more in cakes, sponge cakes and other types of desserts. .

3. Flavor and texture

   As we have said, morello cherries have a very characteristic sweet and sour flavor and a firmer texture than maraschino cherries. These, on the contrary, tend to be softer and sweeter, therefore, professionals use them for their creations in a different way, optimizing their qualities to the maximum.

4. How they are used

   Maraschino morello cherries are traditionally most popular in cocktails and liqueurs, such as the famous “Manhattan” cocktail. On the other hand, maraschino cherries are more common in desserts such as cakes, pastries, biscuits, ice cream, cupcakes, tartlets, etc.

How professionals use maraschino Morello cherries

They are very versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Let’s see some suggestions to incorporate these delicious candied fruits in different dishes and desserts:

• Appetizers: Pair perfectly with cheese and other ingredients to create a delicious and visually appealing appetizer board.
• Shakes and smoothies: Maraschino morello cherries can be added to your shakes and smoothies to provide a touch of different flavor and greater visual appeal.
• Sauces: Professionals often use them in sauces made for meat or poultry. In this way they surprise their guests by providing a different flavor in main dishes.
• Cocktails: Maraschino morello cherries provide a touch of unique flavor and a very attractive decoration in classic and modern cocktails.
• Desserts: The vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor of these cherries complement any sweet creation. They are widely used to decorate all types of desserts and ice creams.

Choose a brand committed to quality

As we can see, maraschino cherries and maraschino morello cherries are increasingly used by professionals in their desserts and savory dishes, both in appetizers, cocktails and desserts.

Therefore, to have cherries and Morello cherries of the highest quality, with a wide catalog and different formats and packaging, chefs and pastry chefs always choose brands with a long history in the market and that adapt perfectly to their needs.

Lazaya Preserved Fruits has been manufacturing the best maraschino cherries for more than 80 years. They have their own cherry plantations and are responsible for the product from harvesting to final packaging, without intermediaries. For this and many other reasons, Lazaya is the preferred brand for professionals.Contact us and tell us what you need. We will be happy to help you, shall we talk?