How to make glace cherries
Glace cherries, also known as candied cherries, are a delicious and versatile treat. These delectable cherries are commonly used in cakes, biscuits, and other baked goods, adding a vibrant pop of colour and a burst of sweet flavour. While they can easily be bought in most supermarkets, making your own glace cherries at home is a fun and rewarding process. Plus, you have the added benefit of controlling the quality of the cherries and the sugar syrup used in the candying process.
To make glace cherries, you’ll need fresh cherries, sugar, and water. It’s important to choose ripe cherries that are firm and free from blemishes or bruises. Begin by washing the cherries in cold water and removing the stems. Then, gently prick each cherry with a toothpick to allow the sugar syrup to penetrate the fruit.
Next, prepare the sugar syrup by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously until the sugar has dissolved completely. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat to medium and bring the syrup to a gentle boil.Once the syrup is boiling, carefully add the prepared cherries to the saucepan. Allow the cherries to simmer in the syrup for approximately 10 minutes, or until they become slightly translucent. Be sure to stir the cherries occasionally to ensure even candying.Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cherries cool in the syrup. The longer you let them cool, the more syrup the cherries will absorb. Once cooled, carefully transfer the cherries to an airtight container, ensuring they are completely immersed in the syrup. Store the glace cherries in the refrigerator for up to three months.
Making your own glace cherries allows you to elevate your baked goods to the next level. With their vibrant red colour and intense sweet flavour, these cherries are a delightful addition to any treat. So, why not give it a try and start enjoying the homemade goodness of glace cherries!
Overview of Glace Cherries
Glace cherries, also known as candied cherries, are a type of fruit preserved in sugar syrup. They are commonly used in baking and confectionery. These cherries are made by coating fresh cherries with a sugar syrup, which infuses them with sweetness and helps preserve their vibrant red color.
Glace cherries are a popular ingredient in various desserts and sweets, including cakes, cookies, pastries, and ice creams. They are often used for decoration and add a burst of color to the finished product. The sweet and tangy flavor of glace cherries pairs well with a wide range of ingredients, making them versatile for both sweet and savory recipes.
How Glace Cherries are Made
The process of making glace cherries involves several stages. First, ripe cherries are harvested and carefully sorted to ensure only the best quality fruit is used. The cherries are then pitted to remove the stones before being soaked in a sugar syrup solution. This liquid penetrates the cherries and transforms them into sweet, glazed fruits.
After soaking, the cherries are cooked in the sugar syrup until they reach the desired consistency and texture. They are then allowed to cool and dry, which helps solidify the syrup and keep the cherries intact. Once dried, the glace cherries can be stored in airtight containers for an extended period.
Uses of Glace Cherries
Glace cherries are a versatile ingredient and can be used in various ways. Some common uses include:
- Decoration: Glaze cherries are commonly used as a decorative element in cakes, cookies, and pastries. Their bright red color adds visual appeal and enhances the overall presentation of the dish.
- Baking: Glaze cherries are often incorporated into cake batters and cookie doughs, adding a burst of sweetness and a touch of fruitiness. They can also be chopped and used as an ingredient in fruitcakes and muffins.
- Ice cream topping: Glace cherries can be chopped and used as a topping for ice cream sundaes and other frozen desserts. They add a vibrant color and a touch of sweetness to the creamy treat.
- Cocktail garnish: Glace cherries can be used as a garnish for cocktails and mocktails. Their bright red color adds a visually appealing and festive touch.
Overall, glace cherries are a delicious and versatile ingredient, perfect for adding flavor, texture, and visual appeal to a wide range of sweet treats. Whether you use them as a decoration or incorporate them into your recipes, glace cherries are sure to enhance your culinary creations.
Choosing the Cherries
When it comes to making glace cherries, choosing the right type of cherries is crucial for achieving the best results. Here are a few important considerations to keep in mind:
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Cherry Variety
The first thing to consider is the type of cherry you want to use. While glace cherries can be made from various types of cherries, sour cherries are generally preferred due to their tart flavor, which nicely balances the sweetness of the glaze. However, if you prefer a sweeter taste, you can also use sweet cherries.
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Firmness
When selecting cherries for glace cherries, look for firm fruits that are free from any soft spots or blemishes. Soft cherries are more likely to break down during the glazing process, resulting in mushy cherries. The firmer the cherries, the better they will hold their shape and texture.
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Size
Consider the size of the cherries you want to use. While there is no right or wrong size, it’s worth noting that smaller cherries tend to absorb more glaze, making them extra sweet and flavorful. On the other hand, larger cherries may offer a more substantial bite.
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Pits
Lastly, decide whether you want to use cherries with pits or pitted cherries. Pitting the cherries before glazing them can be time-consuming but will make it easier to eat the finished glace cherries. However, using cherries with pits can provide a pleasant surprise to those who enjoy spitting out the seeds.
By considering these factors, you can choose the ideal cherries for your glace cherry recipe and ensure a delicious outcome that will delight your taste buds.
Preparing the Cherries
To make glace cherries, you will need fresh cherries that are firm and ripe. Start by washing and drying the cherries thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Use a bowl filled with water to gently scrub the cherries and then pat them dry with a paper towel.
Next, remove the stems and pits from the cherries. You can do this by using a cherry pitter or a small knife. Be careful not to crush or mangle the cherries while removing the pits.
Once the cherries are pitted, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. It’s important to ensure that the cherries are not touching each other to allow for even drying and coating.
Now, it’s time to prepare the sugar syrup for glazing the cherries. In a saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water and bring it to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the sugar has dissolved completely, remove the syrup from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Carefully pour the sugar syrup over the prepared cherries, ensuring that they are evenly coated. Allow the cherries to sit in the syrup for about 10 minutes, allowing them to absorb the sweetness.
After soaking, transfer the baking sheet to an oven preheated to a low temperature (about 200°F or 95°C). Leave the cherries in the oven to dry for approximately 6 to 8 hours. Keep an eye on them to prevent scorching or over-drying.
Once the cherries are dry and slightly tacky to the touch, they are ready to be used. You can store them in an airtight container in a cool and dark place for up to 6 months.
Glazing the Cherries
Once the cherries have been prepared and drained, it’s time to glaze them. Glazing cherries will give them a shiny, sweet exterior that makes them perfect for baking and decorating desserts.
Ingredients and Equipment:
- Prepared and drained cherries
- Granulated sugar
- Water
- Saucepan
- Spoon or spatula
- Wire rack or parchment paper
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the sugar solution to a boil and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the drained cherries to the sugar solution and stir gently to coat them evenly.
- Continue to cook the cherries in the sugar syrup over low heat for about 5 minutes.
- Using a spoon or spatula, carefully transfer the glazed cherries onto a wire rack or parchment paper. Let them cool completely before using them in your recipe.
Now that your cherries are glazed, they are ready to be used in a variety of desserts such as cakes, cookies, and tarts. Store the glazed cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Storing and Using Glace Cherries
Once you have made or purchased glace cherries, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Here are some tips on how to store and make the most out of your glace cherries:
Storage:
1. Refrigeration: Glace cherries have a high sugar content, which helps in preserving them. However, to maintain their texture and flavor, it is recommended to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help to keep them fresh for a longer period of time.
2. Freezing: If you don’t plan on using your glace cherries immediately, you can also freeze them. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen glace cherries can last for up to six months.
Using Glace Cherries:
Glace cherries are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes or enjoyed on their own. Here are a few ideas:
1. Baking: Incorporate glace cherries into your baked goods, such as cakes, cookies, and breads. They add a burst of color and flavor to your creations.
2. Cocktails: Use glace cherries as a garnish for cocktails or muddle them to create a sweet syrup for your beverages.
During the holiday season, glace cherries are a popular ingredient in traditional fruitcakes and mince pies. Their vibrant red color adds a festive touch to any dessert. So next time you have some glace cherries on hand, be sure to store them properly to enjoy their sweet taste for longer!
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