Cherries Jubilee
This classic Cherries Jubilee features tender cherries simmered in a sweet citrus sauce with a splash of kirsch or rum. Served warm over vanilla ice cream, it's an elegant dessert that's surprisingly quick and easy to prepare.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Utility lighter or long match (optional for flambéing)
- Ice cream scoop
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup kirsch or dark rum
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
- Chopped almonds or crushed cookies, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium skillet over medium heat.
- Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the cherries become tender and release their juices.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and carefully pour in the kirsch or rum.
- If flambéing, carefully ignite the alcohol with a long lighter and gently swirl the pan until the flames naturally burn out.
- Return the skillet to the heat and cook for another minute, stirring gently.
- If you prefer not to flambé, simply continue simmering for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.
- Scoop vanilla ice cream into serving bowls.
- Spoon the warm cherry mixture over the ice cream.
- Finish with chopped almonds or crushed cookies, if desired.
- Serve immediately while the cherries are warm and the ice cream is still cold.
Notes
- Fresh sweet cherries provide the best flavor, but frozen cherries work well when fresh are unavailable.
- Kirsch delivers the traditional flavor, though dark rum is an excellent alternative.
- If you prefer an alcohol-free version, replace the liquor with a splash of cherry juice and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Always use caution when flambéing and keep children and flammable items away from the stove.
- Serve immediately after cooking for the best contrast between the warm cherry topping and the cold ice cream.
- Leftover cherry topping can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated before serving.