Classic Cherries Jubilee

Indulge in the timeless elegance of Cherries Jubilee, a dessert that effortlessly combines simplicity with sophistication. This classic treat has been gracing tables for generations, and for good reason.

With its luscious cherries bathed in a warm, syrupy sauce and dramatically flambéed with kirsch or rum, Cherries Jubilee is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The best part? This impressive dessert can be whipped up in mere minutes, making it perfect for both spontaneous indulgences and planned dinner parties alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish
• Impressive presentation with the optional flambé technique
• Versatile recipe that works with both fresh and frozen cherries
• Customizable with your choice of kirsch, rum, or non-alcoholic alternatives

What is Cherries Jubilee?

Cherries Jubilee is a classic dessert that originated in the late 19th century, allegedly created for one of Queen Victoria’s jubilee celebrations. It consists of cherries cooked in a sweet syrup, flambéed with liquor, and typically served over vanilla ice cream. This dessert perfectly balances the tartness of cherries with the sweetness of sugar and the complexity of spirits, creating a truly jubilant experience for your taste buds.

Ingredients

• Cherries: 3 cups of fresh or frozen pitted cherries form the base of this dessert. Their natural sweetness and slight tartness create a perfect flavor balance.
• Granulated sugar: 3 tablespoons help create a syrupy consistency and enhance the natural sweetness of the cherries.
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the cherries.
• Kirsch or rum: 1/4 cup of either liquor adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Kirsch, a cherry brandy, enhances the cherry flavor, while rum adds a warm, caramel-like note.
• Vanilla ice cream: A must-have for serving, its creamy coldness contrasts beautifully with the warm cherry sauce.
• Chopped almonds or crushed cookies: Optional toppings that add a delightful crunch to the dessert.

Grab the full ingredients details and instructions in the recipe card below!

Substitutions and Additions

• Cherry juice and vanilla extract: Can replace the alcohol for a non-alcoholic version.
• Brandy: Can be used instead of kirsch or rum for a different flavor profile.
• Other fruit: Try this recipe with other fruits like peaches or plums for a twist on the classic.
• Chocolate shavings: Add as a topping for a decadent chocolate-cherry combination.
• Whipped cream: Can be added alongside or instead of ice cream for serving.

Instructions

• Combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a skillet over medium heat

• Cook until sugar dissolves and cherries release juices (6-7 minutes)

• Remove from heat and add rum or kirsch
• Carefully ignite the alcohol and shake the pan gently
• Return to heat and cook for another minute after flame extinguishes
• Alternatively, cook out alcohol on stovetop or use non-alcoholic substitutes
• Serve over vanilla ice cream and top with almonds or cookies if desired

Recipe Tips

• If using frozen cherries, there’s no need to thaw them first
• Be extremely cautious when flambéing – keep a lid nearby to extinguish flames if necessary
• For a thicker sauce, you can add a small amount of cornstarch slurry
• Warm your serving bowls or plates to keep the dessert hot longer
• Prepare all ingredients and toppings before starting to cook for a smooth process

Serving Suggestions

Cherries Jubilee is traditionally served over vanilla ice cream, but don’t stop there! Try it over a slice of New York style cheesecake for an indulgent treat. It also pairs wonderfully with Classic Crêpes or Homemade Pound Cake. For a lighter option, serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola.

Storage & Reheating

The cherry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

It’s best to flambé and serve the cherries jubilee immediately for the most impressive presentation and best flavor. However, you can prepare the cherry mixture ahead of time and reheat it just before serving, adding the alcohol and flambéing at the last minute.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make Cherries Jubilee without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the alcohol with cherry juice and a splash of vanilla extract for flavor.

Is it safe to flambé at home?

Flambéing can be done safely at home, but always exercise caution. Keep a lid nearby to extinguish flames if needed, and never pour alcohol directly from the bottle into a hot pan.

Can I use canned cherries for this recipe?

While fresh or frozen cherries are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use canned cherries in a pinch. Drain them well and reduce the added sugar in the recipe.

What if my sauce is too thin?

If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stirring this slurry into the simmering sauce.

Can I make this dessert in advance for a party?

You can prepare the cherry sauce in advance and reheat it just before serving. Add the alcohol and flambé (if desired) right before serving for the best flavor and presentation.

Yield: 4 portions

Classic Cherries Jubilee

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Cherries Jubilee is a classic dessert that looks and feels oh so elegant, and yet is oh so simple to prepare taking only a few minutes to prepare.

Print

Ingredients

• 3 c. fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 3 T. granulated sugar
• 1 T. fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 c. kirsch or rum
• vanilla ice cream, for serving
• chopped almonds or crushed cookies, for serving

Instructions

1. Combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a skillet over medium heat
2. Cook until sugar dissolves and cherries release juices (6-7 minutes)
3. Remove from heat and add rum or kirsch
4. Carefully ignite the alcohol and shake the pan gently
5. Return to heat and cook for another minute after flame extinguishes
6. Alternatively, cook out alcohol on stovetop or use non-alcoholic substitutes
7. Serve over vanilla ice cream and top with almonds or cookies if desired

Notes

If using frozen cherries, there's no need to thaw them first

Be extremely cautious when flambéing – keep a lid nearby to extinguish flames if necessary

For a thicker sauce, you can add a small amount of cornstarch slurry

Warm your serving bowls or plates to keep the dessert hot longer

Prepare all ingredients and toppings before starting to cook for a smooth process

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 401Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 201mgCarbohydrates: 41gFiber: 6gSugar: 31gProtein: 9g