Cherries Jubilee Recipe

Cherries: Fresh or frozen, these are the star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a burst of flavor.

Sugar: Used to enhance the sweetness of the cherries and create a syrupy sauce.

Kirsch: A type of cherry brandy that adds depth and is used for flambéing.

Brandy: An alternative to kirsch, also used for flambéing and adding rich flavor.

Lemon juice: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the cherries and sugar.

Cornstarch: Optional, used to thicken the sauce if desired.

Vanilla ice cream: The creamy base that pairs perfectly with the warm cherry sauce.

When igniting the kirsch or brandy, ensure that the skillet is removed from the heat source to avoid any accidental flare-ups. Use a long match or lighter for safety, and gently shake the skillet to help the flames evenly distribute and burn off the alcohol. This technique not only adds a dramatic flair but also enhances the flavor of the cherries.

• fresh or frozen pitted cherries - Substitute with frozen mixed berries: Mixed berries provide a similar tartness and sweetness, and they can add a unique flavor profile to the dish.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slight floral note, which can complement the fruit flavors well.

• kirsch or brandy - Substitute with rum: Rum offers a similar depth and warmth, and it pairs well with the sweetness of the cherries or berries.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and brightness, which helps to balance the sweetness of the dish.

• cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent that works similarly to cornstarch, providing a smooth texture.

• vanilla ice cream - Substitute with coconut milk ice cream: Coconut milk ice cream offers a creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor, making it a good dairy-free alternative.

• Allow the cherries and sauce to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the cooled cherries jubilee into an airtight container. Ensure the container is clean and dry to maintain freshness.
• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The cherries jubilee will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• If you plan to freeze the cherries jubilee, use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the cherries jubilee in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating the cherries jubilee multiple times, as this can affect the texture and flavor of the cherries.
• For best results, serve the reheated cherries jubilee over fresh scoops of vanilla ice cream to recreate the delightful dessert experience.

• Gently reheat the cherries and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the sugar from burning. This method preserves the texture and flavor of the cherries.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the cherries and sauce in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

• If you prefer a more controlled reheating process, use a double boiler. Place the cherries and sauce in the top part of the double boiler and heat over simmering water. Stir occasionally until the mixture is warm.

• To maintain the integrity of the vanilla ice cream, reheat only the cherries and sauce separately. Scoop fresh vanilla ice cream into bowls and pour the reheated cherries and sauce over the top just before serving.

• For a unique twist, reheat the cherries and sauce in a slow cooker on the low setting. This method is ideal if you are reheating a larger batch and want to keep it warm for an extended period. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the cherries and sauce over medium heat.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the exact amount of cherries, sugar, and kirsch or brandy.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the lemon juice and optional cornstarch.

• Small bowl: Used to dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of water if thickening the sauce.

• Wooden spoon: Used to stir the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice as they cook.

• Lighter or match: Used to ignite the alcohol for the flambé process.

• Ice cream scoop: Used to serve the vanilla ice cream.

• Serving bowls: Used to serve the final dish of cherries jubilee over ice cream.

Use frozen cherries: Opt for frozen cherries instead of fresh to save time on pitting and washing.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the sugar, lemon juice, and kirsch or brandy beforehand to streamline the cooking process.

Skip the cornstarch: If you prefer a thinner sauce, omit the cornstarch step entirely.

Use store-bought ice cream: Purchase a high-quality vanilla ice cream to avoid making it from scratch.

Flambé safely: Use a long lighter to ignite the alcohol, ensuring a quick and safe flambé.