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

Equipment Time To Make Number Of Servings Preparation

Can T Fail Holiday Fruitcake

This decadent holiday fruitcake recipe is surprisingly easy to make, despite the cost of high-quality mincemeat! Experience the best fruitcake you'll ever taste – rich, moist, and bursting with festive flavors. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting!

See Complete Recipe
Tropical Fruit Fruit Time To Make 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.

See Complete Recipe
3 Steps Or Less Occasion Preparation Number Of Servings

A M F Adios Mother Censored

Need a pick-me-up after a long day? This vibrant and zesty cocktail, inspired by Portland and Mardi Gras, is your answer! The 'A M F Adios Mother' packs a powerful punch with tequila, vodka, gin, and rum, balanced by sweet curaçao and a refreshing splash of 7UP. While purists may debate the tequila, we say embrace the zing! Easily adaptable to your preference, this recipe is perfect for a celebratory night or a solo mood booster. Try it tonight and let the good times roll!

See Complete Recipe
Easy Occasion Preparation Taste Mood

Alcoholic Shirley Temple

Relive the magic of your childhood favorite with a sophisticated twist! This adult Shirley Temple adds a delightful kick of alcohol to the classic, creating a refreshing and vibrant cocktail perfect for parties or a relaxing evening. Easy to make in minutes, it's the perfect festive drink for any occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Course Number Of Servings For 1 Or 2 Preparation

Almond Joy

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Almond Joy Cocktail! A quick and easy recipe that captures the essence of the classic candy bar in a refreshing, icy beverage. Perfect for a warm day or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Low In Something Healthy 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!

See Complete Recipe
15 Minutes Or Less 3 Steps Or Less Time To Make Number Of Servings

Arclight Cinemas Martini

Transport yourself to Hollywood with this stunning blue Arclight Cinemas Martini! Inspired by a Rachael Ray recipe from March 2007, this vibrant cocktail is quick and easy to make. Perfect for a sophisticated night in or a glamorous get-together, this recipe delivers a refreshing and unforgettable taste experience. Learn how to recreate this iconic cinema-inspired drink!

See Complete Recipe
Course Healthy 2 Low Calorie Holiday Event

Aunt Betty's Fruit Salad

A holiday tradition reborn! This vibrant fruit salad jello mold, a family favorite for years, is bursting with juicy fruits and a delightful jiggly texture. Aunt Betty's secret recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Prepare for rave reviews – once you make it, you'll be making it again and again!

See Complete Recipe
For 1 Or 2 Easy Number Of Servings Preparation

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)

See Complete Recipe
For 1 Or 2 For 1 Or 2 Time To Make Independence Day

Bahama Mama Sunrise Cocktail

Escape to the Caribbean with this vibrant Bahama Mama Sunrise cocktail! A refreshing and delicious blend of tropical flavors, perfect for a summer's evening or any celebration. This easy-to-make recipe is ready in minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the sunshine.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Course Free Of Something Time To Make

Banana Butter

Indulge in the creamy, dreamy deliciousness of homemade Banana Butter! This easy-to-make spread from c. C. Preserves is the perfect topping for scones, toast, or pound cake. Bursting with ripe banana flavor, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Get ready to elevate your teatime experience!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Bananas Fruit Course

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!

See Complete Recipe
Vegan Low Calorie Healthy Main Ingredient

Banana Pina Colada Smoothie

Escape to the tropics with this creamy, dreamy Banana Pina Colada Smoothie! A healthier twist on the classic cocktail, this recipe is packed with tropical flavor and naturally sweet banana. Perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast or a refreshing anytime treat. Made with simple ingredients like coconut milk, coconut cream, and fresh pineapple, this smoothie is a delicious way to use up pantry staples. Get your taste buds ready for a vacation in a glass!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Seasonal Desserts For Large Groups

Banana Split Delight

A decadent twist on the classic banana split! This rich and creamy dessert features a buttery vanilla wafer crust, a dreamy cream cheese filling, sweet pineapple, and perfectly ripe bananas, all topped with a generous swirl of cool whip, crunchy walnuts, and your favorite cherries and chocolate syrup. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite! Perfect for parties or a special treat.

See Complete Recipe
Quick Breads Easy Number Of Servings Course

Banana Split Muffins

Indulge in the delightful explosion of flavors with our Banana Split Muffins! Imagine a classic banana split transformed into a perfectly portioned, moist muffin. This recipe features a surprising twist: all the delicious components – sweet bananas, rich chocolate chips, crunchy pecans (optional), and bright maraschino cherries – are baked right into the muffin for a delightful surprise in every bite. We've adjusted the original recipe to ensure maximum flavor and prevent any topping mishaps. Feel free to adjust the chocolate chips to your liking; chocolate lovers can keep the full amount, while those who prefer a slightly less intense chocolate flavor can reduce it to ½ cup. Get ready for a truly unforgettable treat!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make For 1 Or 2 Course Time To Make

Beautiful Beth Drink

Escape to paradise with the Beautiful Beth, a vibrant and refreshing twist on a classic rum and coke! Inspired by the 501 Must-Drink Cocktails, this easy-to-make cocktail combines the rich flavors of dark and coconut rum with the subtle sweetness of triple sec and the crispness of cola. Perfect for a hot summer day or a sophisticated evening gathering. Get ready for a taste of tropical bliss!

See Complete Recipe
Course Cuisine Course Low Cholesterol

Belize Rum Punch

Escape to paradise with this quick and easy Belize Rum Punch recipe! This vibrant, refreshing cocktail is perfect for parties, summer gatherings, or a relaxing evening in. Easily scalable to serve a crowd, this recipe is your go-to for a taste of Belizean sunshine. Get ready to sip on deliciousness in just 5 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Pitted Fruit Presentation Fruit

Peach Upside Down Muffins

These irresistible Peach Upside Down Muffins are a delightful twist on classic peach upside-down cake! Imagine tender, juicy peach slices nestled in a buttery brown sugar base, all baked into fluffy, golden muffins. This recipe is easily adaptable – perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a delightful weekend brunch. Get ready for a burst of peachy goodness in every bite! (Note: This recipe is easily scalable to make more than 12 muffins.)

See Complete Recipe