Cherries preserved for winter for cakes

Preserved sour cherries for cakes – a seasonal recipe

When it comes to making delicious cakes, preserved sour cherries are a unique ingredient that adds a tangy flavor and vibrant aroma. These fruits can transform any dessert recipe into a masterpiece, and today I will show you how to preserve these wonderful cherries to have them on hand during the winter. This simple and quick recipe will allow you to enjoy the taste of summer even on the coldest days.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Storage time: 2-3 months
Number of servings: 4 jars of 800 g

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 kg fresh sour cherries
- Sugar (about 800 g, but you can adjust according to your preferences)
- 3-4 aspirin tablets (optional, for preservation)

Preparing the cherries:

1. Wash the cherries: Start by cleaning the cherries. Wash them well under cold running water, making sure to remove any impurities or residues. It is important to use fresh, healthy fruits without spots or signs of damage.

2. Pitting the cherries: Gently remove the stems from the cherries and pit them. Be careful not to damage the fruits too much, as we want to keep the cherries intact to look nice in the jars. You can use a special pitting tool or, in its absence, a simple method is to use your fingers, but with patience.

3. Draining the juice: Once you have pitted all the cherries, let them drain to remove excess juice. This step is essential as it helps prevent fermentation and maintains the quality of the fruits.

Preparing the jars:

4. Layer of sugar: In the sterilized 800 g jars, start by adding a layer of sugar. This will help extract the juice from the cherries and contribute to their preservation.

5. Adding the cherries: Next, add a layer of pitted cherries. Continue with another layer of sugar, followed again by cherries. Repeat this process until the jars are filled, ensuring that the last layer is sugar.

6. Aspirin for preservation: On each jar, add 3-4 crushed aspirin tablets. These help prevent fermentation and keep the cherries fresh longer. However, if you prefer a more natural option, you can omit this ingredient.

7. Sealing the jars: Close the jars tightly with the sterilized lids and make sure they are airtight to avoid air penetration.

Storage and use:

8. Storing: Place the jars in the refrigerator or in a cool, dark place. The preserved cherries can be used for several months, and you will be able to enjoy them in various cakes, tarts, or even as a topping for yogurts and pancakes.

Serving suggestions:

Preserved cherries are perfect for use in various recipes, such as cheesecake, pies, tarts, or even as a filling for donuts. You can also use them to add a special touch to sauces or glazes for meats. Additionally, you can combine the cherries with chocolate for an extravagant dessert.

Nutritional information:

Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and are low in calories, making them a healthy ingredient for desserts. For example, 100 g of cherries contain approximately 50 calories. Additionally, they can help improve sleep and reduce inflammation due to their melatonin content.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of fruits?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe to preserve cherries, raspberries, or even peaches, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the cherries?
You can add spices like cinnamon or vanilla in the layers of sugar to provide a more complex flavor.

3. What is the best method for sterilizing the jars?
A simple method is to boil the jars and lids in water for 10-15 minutes before using them. Make sure to let them dry completely before filling.

4. How much sugar can I use?
You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences, but it is essential to use enough to ensure the preservation of the fruits.

Therefore, preserving cherries is not just a way to keep the fruits fresh, but also an opportunity to add a touch of summer to your winter desserts. I encourage you to try this simple recipe and enjoy the flavor of cherries all year round. Whether you use them in cake recipes or as a topping for various dishes, your preserved cherries will surely be a hit in the kitchen!