Candied Maraschino Cherries – Sweet, Shiny, and Perfect for Topping 🍒✨
There’s something magical about the sparkle of a candied cherry. Whether perched on a sundae, tucked into a cookie, or topping a cocktail, these glossy, ruby-red gems bring a burst of sweetness and nostalgia.
Making Candied Maraschino Cherries at home is surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding. They’re soft, syrupy, and far more flavorful than anything from the store. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll have a batch ready to impress and indulge.
Why I Love This Recipe
Candied cherries are like little jewels in the world of sweets. They’re versatile, beautiful, and delicious. Use them to top off your Ice Cream Sandwich Cake, embellish your Grasshopper Pie, or tuck them into Snow Globe Cookies. They instantly elevate any dessert.
And since they keep beautifully, you’ll always have a gourmet garnish or snack ready to go.
Ingredients
- 2 cups natural Maraschino cherries, drained
- ¾ cup sugar
- ⅓ cup juice from the cherries
Instructions
1. Make the Syrup
In a heavy-bottom pot, combine the cherry juice and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Don’t stir—just swirl the pot occasionally to help dissolve the sugar completely.
2. Add the Cherries
Once the sugar is fully dissolved, gently stir in the cherries. Keep simmering and let the magic happen. As the cherries cook, you’ll notice their skin starting to wrinkle—this is your sign they’re becoming beautifully candied.
3. Cook to Soft Ball Stage
Simmer gently until the syrup thickens and reaches the soft ball stage (around 237°F or 113°C). Use a candy thermometer to check. This step can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes.
4. Cool and Dry
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the pot from heat. Carefully spoon the cherries onto a parchment-lined tray to cool and dry. Let them cool completely before storing.
5. Store and Use
Transfer the cooled candied cherries to a jar or sealed container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Tips for Success
- Use real Maraschino cherries without artificial dyes for best results.
- Do not stir while simmering—just swirl.
- Candy thermometer is essential to nail that perfect soft chew.
Serving Ideas
Use these beauties for:
- Garnishing Grasshopper Pie
- Nestling into Snow Globe Cookies
- Topping Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
- Snacking on alongside Edible Cookie Dough
- Decorating Easy Coconut Macaroons for a sweet cherry finish
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container, refrigerated, for up to 6 months.
- Room temp: Not recommended—keep them cool to preserve texture and freshness.
- Freezer: Avoid freezing—they lose their beautiful texture.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Add these treats to your dessert rotation:
- Grasshopper Pie
- Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
- Edible Cookie Dough
- Snow Globe Cookies
- Easy Coconut Macaroons
Final Thoughts
These Candied Maraschino Cherries are a game-changer in your kitchen—elevating everything from desserts to drinks. They’re sweet, beautiful, and surprisingly easy to make.
Ready to impress your guests or just enjoy a luxurious treat on a regular Tuesday? Give these a go. And don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to see how you use them!
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