Cherry Sauce
Sweet yet tart, this vibrant cherry sauce is incredibly versatile. Drizzle it over pancakes, cheesecake, or even pair it with roasted pork for a delightful surprise. Ready in under 15 minutes!
For 8 servings
6 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
- 2
Cook the mixture over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally
- a.The cherries will start to release their juices and the sugar will dissolve. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- 3
While the cherries are simmering, prepare the cornstarch slurry
- a.In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering cherry mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents the cornstarch from clumping.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- 6
Remove the saucepan from the heat
- a.Stir in the almond extract (if using) and the salt. Let the sauce cool for at least 10 minutes before serving; it will thicken further as it cools.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a faster prep time with fresh cherries, a cherry pitter is a highly recommended tool.
- 2The sweetness of cherries can vary. Taste the sauce before adding the slurry and adjust the sugar if needed.
- 3If your sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a tablespoon of water or lemon juice.
- 4For a smoother, less chunky sauce, use an immersion blender to pulse the mixture a few times after cooking.
- 5Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spiced Cherry Sauce
Add a cinnamon stick or a star anise to the saucepan while the cherries cook. Remove the spice before serving.
Boozy Cherry SauceBoozy Cherry Sauce
Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of Kirsch, brandy, or bourbon along with the almond extract at the end of cooking.
Citrus TwistCitrus Twist
Add 1 teaspoon of finely grated orange or lemon zest along with the juice for a brighter flavor.
Alternative SweetenersAlternative Sweeteners
Replace the granulated sugar with an equal amount of maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile. Note that this will alter the taste and consistency slightly.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Cherries are a powerhouse of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give them their deep red color. These compounds help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The compounds found in cherries have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce symptoms associated with conditions like arthritis and gout.
May Improve Sleep Quality
Cherries are one of the few natural food sources of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Enjoying cherries may contribute to better sleep.
Frequently asked questions
A quarter-cup serving of this cherry sauce contains approximately 75-85 calories, depending on the natural sweetness of the cherries and the exact amount of sugar used.