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Cherry Simple Syrup

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Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Create Cherry Simple Syrup in just 20 minutes! This sweet elixir adds a burst of fruity flavor to your drinks and desserts. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a must-try culinary magic.

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Sweet Delight: Crafting Cherry Simple Syrup for Culinary Magic

We’re diving into a world of culinary enchantment with a recipe that’s as versatile as it is delectable. If you’re a fan of adding a burst of fruity flavor to your drinks, desserts, or breakfast dishes, then you’re in for a treat. Join us as we learn how to make Cherry Simple Syrup—a delightful concoction that will elevate your culinary creations to new heights.

What’s the difference in flavor when using sour (tart) cherries versus regular cherries for this recipe?

Using sour cherries instead of regular sweet cherries in your Cherry Simple Syrup recipe will result in a noticeably different flavor profile. Here are the key differences:

Sour Cherries:

  1. Tartness: Sour cherries are, as the name suggests, tart or sour in flavor. They have a bright, tangy, and slightly acidic taste. This tartness can add a refreshing and zesty element to your syrup.
  2. Less Sweet: Sour cherries are much less sweet than sweet cherries. This means that the syrup made from sour cherries will have a more pronounced tartness and may require more sugar to balance out the flavor.
  3. Complexity: Sour cherries often have a more complex flavor profile with hints of both sweetness and sourness. This complexity can make for a unique and intriguing syrup.

Regular (Sweet) Cherries:

  1. Sweetness: Sweet cherries, such as Bing or Rainier cherries, are known for their natural sweetness. They have a rich, sugary flavor that’s both fruity and decadent.
  2. Balanced Flavor: The syrup made from sweet cherries will be sweeter without the pronounced tartness of sour cherries. It will have a more straightforward, sweet cherry flavor.
  3. Versatility: Sweet cherry syrup can be used in a wider range of applications due to its neutral, sweet taste. It pairs well with a variety of cocktails, desserts, and breakfast dishes.

Ultimately, the choice between sour cherries and sweet cherries comes down to personal preference and the specific dish or drink you’re planning to make. If you prefer a sweeter, more dessert-like syrup, go for sweet cherries. If you want a zesty, tangy element to your culinary creations, sour cherries are the way to go. You can also experiment by blending the two types of cherries to find your perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.

Why don’t you see tart cherries in grocery stores as much as regular cherries?

Tart cherries, also known as sour cherries, are less commonly found in grocery stores compared to regular sweet cherries for several reasons:

  1. Demand and Popularity: Sweet cherries are more widely popular due to their natural sweetness, making them a favorite for snacking and eating fresh. Their sweet, juicy flavor is appealing to a broad range of consumers. Tart cherries, on the other hand, have a distinct tartness that can be less appealing for eating fresh but is prized for cooking, baking, and making preserves.
  2. Limited Fresh Consumption: While sweet cherries are often enjoyed fresh, tart cherries are typically not consumed in the same way. They are more commonly used in pies, tarts, jams, jellies, and other culinary applications. As a result, there’s less demand for tart cherries as a fresh fruit.
  3. Growing Conditions: Tart cherries require specific growing conditions and are more sensitive to climate variations. They thrive in cooler, northern regions with well-drained soil. This limits the areas where they can be commercially grown in large quantities compared to sweet cherries, which have a broader growing range.
  4. Perishability: Tart cherries are more perishable than sweet cherries and have a shorter shelf life. This can make it challenging to distribute them widely in grocery stores, especially if they are not in high demand.
  5. Processing: Many tart cherries are processed into canned, frozen, or dried forms for use in various products like pie fillings, juices, and sauces. This processing makes them more readily available in those forms rather than fresh.

Despite being less commonly found fresh in grocery stores, tart cherries are highly valued in the culinary world for their unique flavor. You can often find them in the canned fruit section, frozen fruit section, or dried cherries. When you do find fresh tart cherries, they are often seasonal and available for a limited time in regions where they are grown. If you’re interested in using tart cherries in your cooking or baking, you may need to plan ahead and look for them in specialty stores or during their peak season at local markets.

Locally grown Sour (Tart) Cherries in Solebury, PA
Locally grown Sour (Tart) Cherries in Solebury, PA

When is Cherry season in the USA?

Cherry season in the USA varies by region due to differences in climate and growing conditions. Here’s a general overview of when cherry season typically occurs in different regions of the United States:

  1. Pacific Northwest (Washington and Oregon):
    • Sweet cherries: Late June to early August.
    • Rainier cherries (a type of sweet cherry): Late June to early July.
    • Tart cherries (for pie and preserves): Late June to July.
  2. California:
    • Sweet cherries (including the popular Bing variety): May to June.
    • Some areas in Northern California may have an extended season into early July.
  3. Michigan:
    • Sweet cherries: Late June to early July.
    • Tart cherries (used for pies and processing): Mid-July to early August.
  4. Wisconsin:
    • Sweet cherries: Late June to early July.
    • Tart cherries: Late July to early August.
  5. New York:
    • Sweet cherries: Late June to early July.
    • Tart cherries: Late July to early August.
  6. Utah:
    • Sweet cherries: Late June to early July.
    • Tart cherries: July to early August.
  7. Pennsylvania:
    • Sweet cherries: Late June to early July.
    • Tart cherries: Late July to early August.
  8. Oregon (Columbia Gorge):
    • Sweet cherries: Late June to early July.

Please note that these are approximate timeframes, and the exact timing of cherry season can vary from year to year depending on weather conditions. Additionally, the availability of cherries may vary within each region due to local microclimates.

To enjoy the freshest cherries, it’s a good idea to check with local farmers’ markets, orchards, or grocery stores in your specific area for the most accurate information on when cherries are in season. Cherries are best enjoyed when they are at the peak of ripeness, so don’t miss out on this delicious seasonal fruit when it’s available in your region!

Cherry Simple Syrup Recipe

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Glass jar or bottle for storage

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for a hint of brightness)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, and water.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  3. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes or until the cherries have softened and released their vibrant color and flavor.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool slightly.
  5. Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the syrup into a glass jar or bottle, pressing down on the cherries to extract all the liquid.
  6. If desired, add the lemon juice to the syrup and give it a gentle stir.
  7. Seal the container and refrigerate.

Tips for Recipe Success:

  • For a thicker syrup, you can let the mixture simmer for a few extra minutes.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste preferences.
  • Use ripe, juicy cherries for the best flavor and color.

Customization and Variations:

  • Minty Fresh Cherry Syrup: Add a handful of fresh mint leaves during cooking for a refreshing twist.
  • Spiced Cherry Syrup: Infuse the syrup with cinnamon sticks, cloves, or star anise while simmering for a warm, aromatic flavor.
  • Vanilla-Infused Cherry Syrup: Split a vanilla bean and add it to the mixture for a subtle vanilla undertone.

Diet and Lifestyles:

  • Vegetarian
  • Vegan
  • Gluten-free

Perfect for Special Occasions:

  • Summer BBQs
  • Brunch gatherings
  • Valentine’s Day
  • Mother’s Day
  • Bridal showers

Wonderful as a Gift:

Looking for a thoughtful present? Fill a charming glass bottle with your homemade Cherry Simple Syrup, tie a ribbon around it, and present it as a unique gift for birthdays, housewarmings, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness.

Recipes Featuring Cherry Simple Syrup:

  • Cherry Spritzer: Mix with sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing mocktail.
  • Cherry Drizzle: Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
  • Cherry Yogurt Parfait: Layer with yogurt and granola for a delightful breakfast treat.

Final Thoughts

From beverages to desserts, this versatile syrup adds a burst of fruity goodness that’s sure to captivate your taste buds. Experiment with variations, share this recipe with loved ones and savor the magic of homemade flavor enhancement.

Pick Your Own Sour Cherries and Blueberries at Solebury Orchards www.lifeslittlesweets.com 680x1020

Cherry Simple Syrup

Yield: 1 cup of syrup
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Create Cherry Simple Syrup in just 20 minutes! This sweet elixir adds a burst of fruity flavor to your drinks and desserts. Perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, and water.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  3. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes or until the cherries have softened and released their vibrant color and flavor.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool slightly.
  5. Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the syrup into a glass jar or bottle, pressing down on the cherries to extract all the liquid.
  6. If desired, add the lemon juice to the syrup and give it a gentle stir.
  7. Seal the container and refrigerate.

Notes

KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED:

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Glass jar or bottle for storage

TIPS FOR RECIPE SUCCESS:

  • For a thicker syrup, you can let the mixture simmer for a few extra minutes.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste preferences.
  • Use ripe, juicy cherries for the best flavor and color.

CUSTOMIZATION AND VARIATIONS:

  • Minty Fresh Cherry Syrup: Add a handful of fresh mint leaves during cooking for a refreshing twist.
  • Spiced Cherry Syrup: Infuse the syrup with cinnamon sticks, cloves, or star anise while simmering for a warm, aromatic flavor.
  • Vanilla-Infused Cherry Syrup: Split a vanilla bean and add it to the mixture for a subtle vanilla undertone.

How many servings does this recipe make?

The number of servings of Cherry Simple Syrup can vary depending on how it's used in recipes or beverages. Typically, this recipe yields approximately 16 tablespoons (1 cup) of syrup. The number of servings will depend on how much syrup you use in each dish or drink. For instance, if you're making cocktails, you might use 1-2 tablespoons per serving. For desserts, it can vary widely based on the recipe, so servings can range from a few to many, depending on your preferences and how you choose to use the syrup.

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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 108Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 2mgCarbohydrates: 28gFiber: 0gSugar: 27gProtein: 0g

Please note that the Calculated Nutrition is an estimate at best. If you make this recipe and love it, remember to stop back and give it a 5-star rating – it helps others find the recipe!

Did you make this recipe?

Did you make this recipe? If you share it on social media tag us @lifeslittlesweets and hashtag it #lifeslittlesweets - Thank you in advance!

© Sara Maniez
Cuisine: American / Category: Sweet
  • First published: 9/7/2023

Sara Maniez
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