Fruit, Preserved | Gluten Free Vegan

Maraschino Cherry

Prunus avium Allergen-Free
maraschino cherry

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rosaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Western
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Sweet Cherries

The Forktionary Angle

"A kitschy yet essential garnish, adding a pop of color and nostalgic sweetness to any creation."

Definition

A preserved, sweetened cherry, typically dyed red, often used as a garnish in cocktails and desserts.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Fruity, Almond
TextureChewy, Juicy, Soft
AromaSweet, Fruity, Floral
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Dye Used

Red #40 (typically)

Origin (Modern)

Oregon, USA (post-Prohibition)

Primary Use

Cocktail & Dessert Garnish

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tbsp (15g)
Calories150 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.5 g
Total Carbohydrate37 g
Dietary Fiber0.5 g
Total Sugars30 g
Calcium10 mg
Iron0.2 mg
Potassium70 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a more sophisticated garnish, soak maraschino cherries in quality brandies or liqueurs like kirsch for a few hours.

Substitutions

Best Match

Glace Cherry

1:1

Best for baking and decorating, similar sweetness and texture.

Fresh Cherry (pitted)

1:1

Good for fresh taste and less sweetness, for cocktails or desserts.

Dried Cranberry (sweetened)

1:1

For a chewy texture and tart-sweet flavor in baked goods.

Red Gummy Candy

1:1

For a purely decorative, sweet, and chewy garnish, if flavor is secondary.

Buying Guide

Look for vibrant red color and firm, intact cherries in clear syrup.

Flavor Pairings

Pineapple coconut lime rum chocolate vanilla ice cream whipped cream.

Recipes Using Maraschino Cherry

Occasion Oven Christmas Number Of Servings

Can T Fail Holiday Fruitcake

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Holiday Event Heirloom Historical 5 Ingredients Or Less Independence Day

4Th Of July Martini

Wow your guests with this stunning and delicious 4th of July Martini! The vibrant blue curaçao creates a breathtaking contrast with the bright red layer of grenadine at the bottom. This easy-to-make cocktail is perfect for your Independence Day celebrations. Serve it in a classic martini glass to fully appreciate the beautiful layering effect. Guaranteed to be a hit!

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Fruit Fruit Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less

5 Cup Ambrosia Salad

This dreamy 5-Cup Ambrosia Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! A vibrant mix of sweet fruits and creamy coconut, it's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a refreshing summer dessert. Customize it with mini marshmallows (white or colored!), or add crunchy pecans for extra texture. This easy recipe takes just minutes to prepare and chills to perfection.

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Dietary Easy 3 Steps Or Less Main Ingredient

Alabama Slammer

Transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise with this vibrant Alabama Slammer! A refreshing and fruity cocktail that tastes just like a sophisticated fruit punch, this easy-to-make drink is perfect for parties, warm evenings, or a quick pick-me-up. Get ready to be amazed by the burst of delicious flavors!

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Sweet Low Calorie Picnic Course

Alcoholic Shirley Temple

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5 Ingredients Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Preparation Easy

Alli's Antifreeze

Beat the summer heat with Alli's Antifreeze, a vibrant blue cocktail that's incredibly refreshing! This easy-to-make drink is perfect for poolside lounging or a backyard barbecue. The subtly sweet and tart flavors are perfectly balanced, making it a crowd-pleaser. Get the recipe now!

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Low In Something Low Cholesterol Holiday Event Low Saturated Fat

Aphrodites Love Potion

Ignite your senses with Aphrodite's Love Potion, a tantalizingly sweet and refreshing cocktail! This easy-to-make drink combines the smooth richness of brandy with the tropical sweetness of pineapple juice, creating a perfect balance of flavors. A touch of maraschino cherry juice adds an extra layer of sweetness (optional), while a vibrant cherry and orange garnish elevates the presentation. Perfect for a romantic evening or a sophisticated get-together, this cocktail is sure to impress!

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Cuisine Northeastern United States Holiday Event Course

Apple Everything Cake

This irresistible Apple Everything Cake, inspired by a New York City recipe, is a family favorite! Unlike traditional apple cakes, this one skips the cinnamon for a unique, subtly sweet flavor profile that kids and adults adore. Featuring a simple, yet elegant preparation, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Get ready to enjoy moist, tender layers bursting with the fresh taste of apples – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Cocktails 15 Minutes Or Less Beverages Technique

Apricot Brandy Slush

Cool down with this refreshing Apricot Brandy Slush! This easy 10-minute recipe combines the sweetness of apricots, the tang of citrus, and a delightful brandy kick. Perfect for a hot summer day or a festive gathering, this vibrant slush is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for a taste of sunshine in every sip!

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Course 1 Day Or More Cuisine Time To Make

Authentic Black Forest Cake Schwarzwald Kirsch Kuchen

Indulge in the true taste of Germany with this authentic Black Forest Cake recipe! Unlike its overly sweet North American counterparts, this Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte boasts a sophisticated balance of deep, rich flavors and a delightful kick of Kirsch (cherry brandy). Made with fresh cherries (or high-quality canned Bing cherries – absolutely NO pie filling!), this recipe is a decadent dessert for adults only. If Kirsch is unavailable, cherry juice can be substituted, though the experience won't be quite the same. Prepare for a truly unforgettable culinary journey!

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Brunch Time To Make Dinner Party Desserts

Awesome Ambrosia For A Crowd

Wow your guests with this quick, rich, and creamy Ambrosia salad! Perfect for summer gatherings, this crowd-pleasing dessert was a smash hit at our work anniversary party. Feeds 12-20, depending on how hungry your crowd is! Simple to make, simply chill overnight for the best flavor.

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Time To Make Preparation Easy 15 Minutes Or Less

Bad Attitude

Unleash your inner rebel with this potent and fruity Bad Attitude Cocktail! Perfect for a night in with friends when you don't have to work the next day. This vibrant mixed drink combines the perfect balance of alcohol and delicious juices for a truly unforgettable taste. A surprisingly easy recipe, it's ready in minutes! (Original recipe created September 5, 2008)

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Fruit Technique Gifts Taste Mood

Banana Butter Canning Recipe

Transform ripe bananas into delicious homemade banana butter! This easy canning recipe preserves the sweet, creamy goodness of bananas for year-round enjoyment. Perfect for toast, crackers, or as a unique spread, this recipe is a must-try for any canning enthusiast. No special equipment needed, just simple ingredients and a little time.

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Eggs Dairy Quick Breads Fruit Equipment

Banana Coconut Muffins

Indulge in these irresistible banana coconut muffins, bursting with moist banana flavor, sweet coconut flakes, and a delightful surprise of juicy maraschino cherries! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat. Easy to make and even easier to devour!

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Puddings And Mousses Main Ingredient Eggs Dairy Presentation

Banana Split Dessert 4 Points Low Fat Low Sugar

Indulge in a guilt-free twist on the classic banana split! This lighter, healthier version is packed with delicious layers of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy nuts, all while keeping it low-fat and low-sugar. Each serving boasts approximately 194 calories and only 6 grams of fat – that's roughly 4 Weight Watchers points! Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the extra weight.

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Preparation Main Ingredient Beverages Tropical Fruit

Banana Twist Milk Shake

This irresistible Banana Twist Milkshake recipe is a family favorite! Creamy, dreamy, and bursting with the flavors of banana, cherry, and a hint of cocoa, this quick and easy milkshake is perfect for a hot day or a delightful after-school treat. Inspired by a gourmet recipe, it's guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike!

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15 Minutes Or Less Caribbean Central American North American

Barbadian Rum Punch

Escape to the tropics with this vibrant Barbadian Rum Punch! A taste of island history, this refreshing cocktail blends the sweetness of Caribbean fruits with the rich warmth of rum. Perfect for a hot summer day or a lively party, this easy-to-make recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Learn how to make this classic drink, inspired by centuries of tradition and perfected for modern palates.

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Novelty American Free Of Something Novelty

Cake From Portal

Recreate the iconic (and fictional!) cake from the hit game Portal! This recipe playfully takes inspiration from the game's infamous cake, promising a delicious reality in place of the in-game deception. Get ready for a fun and flavorful baking adventure – perfect for gamers and bakers alike!

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