Cherries in a jar, for cakes

Sour Cherries in a Jar for Cakes - A Sweet Indulgence for Winter

Who doesn't love the sweet-tart taste of sour cherries in cakes, pies, or even sauces? This preparation is an excellent way to preserve the flavor of summer, allowing you to savor it throughout the year. Over the years, I've discovered that the method of preserving cherries with aspirin not only keeps them well but also intensifies their flavor. This year, I decided to slightly reinvent the recipe and opt for a sterilized preservation method with a smaller amount of aspirin. The result? The cherries are delicious, with a vibrant color and an unmistakable aroma.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of Servings: Approximately 10 jars of 370 g

Necessary Ingredients:
- 3.5 kg of fresh sour cherries
- Sugar (1 tablespoon suitable for each jar)
- Aspirin (1/2 tablet for each jar)
- 370 g jars (about 10 jars)

Step by Step for Sour Cherries in a Jar:

1. Preparing the Cherries:
Start by washing the cherries under a stream of cold water, ensuring they are clean and free of impurities. Using a colander is ideal to let them drain well. After washing, remove the stems and pits. This step may seem tedious, but it is essential for achieving a delicious final product.

2. Sterilizing the Jars:
To prevent contamination, it is crucial to sterilize the jars and lids. Wash them well with hot water, then place them upside down on a clean towel to drain.

3. Filling the Jars:
Place the cherries in the jars, leaving a little space at the top. Add a tablespoon of sugar to each jar and gently shake to ensure the sugar distributes evenly. Then, pour the juice released by the cherries into each jar, making sure it is evenly distributed.

4. Adding the Aspirin:
Over each jar, add half a tablet of aspirin. This will help preserve the cherries and maintain a fresh taste.

5. Sterilizing the Jars:
In a large pot, place some paper on the bottom to avoid direct contact of the jars with the bottom of the pot. Place the jars in the pot and fill with cold water up to 3/4 of the height of the jars. Cover everything with a kitchen towel.
Put the pot on medium heat, and once the water starts to boil, let them sterilize for 35 minutes. This step is essential to ensure the cherries will last long-term.

6. Cooling the Jars:
After 35 minutes, turn off the heat and carefully remove the jars. Wrap them in a blanket to cool gradually. It is important to leave them like this until the next day to ensure the preservation process is complete.

7. Storing:
Once completely cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place, preferably in a pantry. Your cherries are now ready to be used in cakes or simply enjoyed!

Recommendations and Custom Variants:
- Aspirin-Free Variant: If you prefer a method without aspirin, you can opt for preserving the cherries by filling the jars with sugar syrup (made from water and sugar), which will give them a sweet taste.
- Serving Suggestions: These cherries are ideal for use in cakes, such as a cheesecake with cherries or a cherry tart. You can also use them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
- Recommended Drinks: Serve a delicious cocktail by combining the cherries with prosecco, or you can make a cherry lemonade for a refreshing drink.

Nutritional Benefits:
Sour cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. They help maintain a healthy immune system, have anti-inflammatory properties, and can contribute to heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can you use other fruits for preservation? Absolutely! Apples, peaches, or cherries are perfect for being preserved in the same way.
- Can cherries be frozen? Yes, it is an excellent option if you want to use them later, but the taste preserved in a jar is exceptional.
- How long do preserved cherries last in jars? If stored correctly, cherries can last up to a year.

The Story Behind:
This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, each adding a personal touch. I learned to preserve cherries from my grandmother, who made the most delicious cakes with these fruits. I decided to keep the tradition and slightly improve it, thus bringing a touch of innovation to the old recipes.

I hope you try this recipe and enjoy the taste of cherries throughout the year! Don't hesitate to share the final result with family and friends, as such a delicacy deserves to be enjoyed together!