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Classic Cherries Jubilee with a Flambé Twist

20 min 4 servings Medium
Cherries Jubilee is a classic dessert that dates back to the late 1800s, renowned for its dramatic flambé presentation. This recipe captures the essence of tradition with a modern twist, offering the perfect balance between sweet cherries and aromatic liqueur. Ideal for those who enjoy a touch of theatrics at the dinner table, this dish is both a feast for the eyes and the palate. The combination of warm cherries in a rich sauce served over cold ice cream creates an exciting contrast that is sure to impress guests. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, Classic Cherries Jubilee is a dessert worth mastering.

Instructions

1

Prepare the cherries

In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries and sugar over medium heat.

2

Cook the cherries

Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices and the sugar dissolves.

3

Simmer the sauce

Reduce heat to low and let simmer for another 3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4

Prepare for flambé

Remove the pan from the heat and pour in the kirsch or brandy.

Pro tip: Use a long-handled lighter for safe ignition.

5

Flambé the cherries

Carefully ignite the alcohol using a lighter, allowing the flames to subside naturally.

Pro tip: Stand back as you ignite.

6

Serve

Spoon the warm cherries over bowls of vanilla ice cream and serve immediately.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure your cherries are pitted for ease of eating and cooking.
  • Use a long-handled lighter to safely ignite the alcohol.
  • Serve immediately for the best contrast of warm cherries and cold ice cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is classic cherries jubilee?

Classic cherries jubilee is a dessert consisting of cherries cooked in a sauce, traditionally flambéed with liqueur, and served over ice cream.

How do you flambé cherries?

To flambé cherries, add liqueur to the cooked cherries, remove from heat, and carefully ignite with a long-handled lighter.

Can cherries jubilee be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the cherry sauce ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before flambéing just before serving.

What is the best liqueur for cherries jubilee?

Kirsch or brandy is traditionally used for cherries jubilee to complement the cherry flavour.

How many calories are in cherries jubilee?

A serving of cherries jubilee contains approximately 310 calories.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Classic Cherries Jubilee immediately after flambéing to ensure the ice cream remains firm and the contrast of temperatures is maintained. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple vanilla ice cream, allowing the cherries to truly shine. For make-ahead options, prepare the cherry sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before flambéing. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, though the flambé effect will be lost upon reheating.

Nutrition per serving

310

Calories

3g

Protein

12g

Fat

49g

Carbs