Best Maraschino Cherries. Make The Best Cocktail Cherries in 2024

There are many types of maraschino cherries, but only a few can be considered the best. The best maraschino cherries are those that are handpicked, fresh, and have a deep red color.

The flavor of maraschino cherries is often described as sweet and tart. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from desserts to cocktails. Maraschino cherries are also a popular topping for ice cream and sundaes.

If you’re looking for the best maraschino cherries, be sure to check out our reviews below. You’ll be sure to find a variety that meets your needs and taste preferences.

#1. Luxardo, Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries – The best Cocktail Cherries

In terms of the best maraschino cherries, we have to give the title to Luxardo.

These are considered the original cocktail cherries and clearly the best tasting, no matter who tries them.

They just have the best-made syrup and manufacturing process and everything is sourced from Italy. The only issue is you will be paying up for these but we think they are worth it.

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What are maraschino cherries used for?

Maraschino cherries are just great for topping ice cream sundaes. But what they are really known for is cocktails in whisky, bourbon, etc. They are so many cocktails that use maraschino cherries, that it is difficult to provide a list.

You can also use them as garnishes for food. For instance, you can put these on top of glazed ham, parfaits, sorbets, milkshakes, cakes, and plenty of pastries.

7 Best Cocktail Cherries Made With Maraschino

#1. Luxardo Maraschino Cherries – Top-Class Gourmet Cocktail

When it comes to the best maraschino cherries, Luxardo Maraschino Cherries are definitely the gold standard and the original. These are considered the godfather of maraschino cherries.

These cherries are made in Italy and only from the best cherries. Each jar contains a 50/50 split of cherries and syrup with about 50 cherries per jar.

Yeah sure, they are wildly overpriced, but they clearly are the best cherries you can buy.

For those who do high-end cocktails or pastries, nothing rivals these maraschino cherries.

They really do have the perfect texture and are plump, juicy, and with just the right amount of sweetness and tenderness (similar to raisins but with less sweetness).

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#2. Member’s Mark Maraschino Cherries

Maraschino Cherries

Member’s Mark Maraschino Cherries are some of the best maraschino cherries on the market if you are going for value for the dollar. No, they are not imported from Italy, but they sure as heck get the job done.

Overall, the cherries are pretty big and succulent and definitely not dry or overaged.

They are not the best quality, but in terms of the cost per cherry, you are definitely coming out on top. These are great to buy in bulk and save.

You can eat them standalone or use them as a garnish and put them on anything from sundaes to cocktails and pastries.

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#3. Tillen Farms Cherries, Merry Maraschino

The Tillen Farms Cherries are some of the best maraschino cherries if you want a brand that is more or less natural. These cherries are pitted with stems and made in the USA.

In terms of being “organic” and “natural”, these maraschino cherries have been kosher certified. They are also gluten-free, vegan, and made in a nut-free facility.

Furthermore, these maraschino cherries are made with all-natural ingredients and contain no preservatives, red dye #40, corn syrup, or artificial flavors.

Overall, these cherries have a very dark and authentic taste. They are subtly tarty and sweet and definitely not too sweet like some other cherries.

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#4. Royal Harvest Nature’s Maraschino Cocktail Cherries

The Royal Harvest Nature’s Maraschino Cherries are a good choice when it comes to retaining the original flavor of the cherries without too many additives.

We like how these cherries have hints of vanilla and almond along with a full-bodied savory cherry taste that lingers.

We like how Royal Harvest made picks their cherries at peak ripeness and only from the freshest cherry trees. Very few ingredients are added to preserve the original nature of the cherries.

Finally, just note that these maraschino cherries are sweetened with Fairtrade sugar cane which gives it a unique kind of sweetness that other maraschino cherries just don’t have.

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#5.The Royal Cherry Classic Maraschino Cherries

Maraschino Cherries

Finally, the Royal Cherry Classic makes some pretty good maraschino cherries if you want them in nice travel-sized pouches for eating on the go.

We like the fact that each pouch is resealable and contains 8 maraschino cherries with stems.

In terms of taste, we would say that they do taste a bit artificial and definitely quite sweet. However, if you prefer the artificial look and taste, these are the right ones for you.

Finally, we think these maraschino cherries tend to last longer than other brands simply because there are fewer cherries in each pouch.

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#6. Fabbri Amarena Wild Cherries in Syrup, Gluten Free, Non- GMO, Vegan – Best For The Old Fashioned or Manhattans Cocktails

Fabbri Cherries

Indulge in the delicious taste of authentic Italian cherries by one of the world’s leading producers of cherries, the Famous Fabbri Amarena Wild Cherries in Syrup.

These cherries are produced in Italy and are candied before being immersed in a rich syrup, achieving the perfect balance of sweet and tart – a true delight for the senses.

Unlike your typical cocktail or maraschino cherries, these Amarena cherries are in a league of their own.

Impress your guests by using them as a luxurious cocktail garnish or topping for your favorite desserts such as gelato, ice cream, and cheesecake.

They pair beautifully with bourbon, whiskey, brandy, and any other liqueur. Experience the heavenly flavor of Fabbri Amarena Wild Cherries in Syrup and elevate your drinking and dining experience to a whole new level.

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Why Fabbri Amarena cherries are hard to find?

To be honest, this is just because there is a high demand for these top class cherries. So the demand exceeds the supply.

In essence, Fabbri Amarena Cherries are sometimes hard to find in some parts of the world, but for those lucky enough to know where to look, these delicious soaked cherries are a culinary treasure.

Fabbri Amarena Cherries have been used as an ingredient in many recipes, including Manhattan cocktails and bourbon desserts. If you’re looking for a unique flavor twist in your recipe or cocktail list, Fabbri Amarena Cherries are worth seeking out.

As discussed above, these cherries are soaked in a syrup made from wild Italian sour Morello cherries and Amaretto liqueur. This syrup has a sweet-tart flavor that adds an interesting depth to any dish or beverage it is added to. The vibrant red color of the cherries also adds visual excitement to whatever they’re served with.

#7. Traverse City Whiskey Co. Premium Cocktail Cherries – Best Made In USA

Made in America Cherries

Here is the ultimate cocktail experience with the USA’s best-made cocktail cherries by Traverse City Whiskey Co.’s Premium Cocktail Cherries. These are not only made in the USA but produced in the “cherry capital of the world,” that is Traverse City, Michigan. These cherries are a delicacy unlike any other.

Note that Traverse City is also famous for hosting the National Cherry Festival every year, so it’s no surprise that a renowned whiskey distillery in the city would candy its own cherries.

Traverse City Whiskey Co.’s Premium Cocktail Cherries are soaked in the house whiskey to impart smoky and charred notes to the fruit. The cherries are then slow-cooked in large copper pots to preserve their natural tartness and deep color. The cherry varietal used is Balaton, a sour cherry originally from Hungary, which adds a unique tangy flavor to every drink.

These cocktail cherries are perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your cocktails. Whether you’re sipping an old-fashioned or a classic Manhattan, Traverse City Whiskey Co.’s Premium Cocktail Cherries will take your drink to the next level. Order a jar or two today and elevate your cocktail game.

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Frequently asked questions – FAQs

Below are some answers to your questions about Maraschino.

Can I eat maraschino cocktail cherries?

Yes, these are perfectly fine to eat. Some people are scared when they see the colored Red No. 3 or Red No. 40. But these colored fruits are perfectly safe to eat. And they are approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Are Luxardo maraschino soaked cherries better than maraschino?

Everyone agrees that Luxardo cherries are the best. Technically Luxardo and Maraschino are both Maraschino cherries. Both are also classic toppings for cocktails and desserts. But what if you could upgrade your recipes with something even better? The answer is Luxardo Marasca Cherries. Originating from the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna, Luxardo cherries are a premium varietal that set themselves apart from conventional maraschino cherries.

Unlike their sugary counterparts, Luxardo cherries have an intense sweet and sour flavor thanks to their unique preparation process. This process includes macerating in syrup made from the same cherry juice used to create the famous liqueur, Maraschino di Zara. This makes them ideal for adding depth and complexity to cocktails like Manhattans or Old Fashioneds. Additionally, they provide a vibrant contrast against more neutral flavors like ice cream or milkshakes when used as a garnish.

Note that there is an extra difference. Luxardo cherries are artisanal. As such they are high-end and perfect for a craft cocktail garnish.

What is the shelf life of cocktail cherries?

Generally speaking, cocktail cherries can be stored at room temperature in their jar forever. However, we would say that they are best to use for up to 6 months with no ill effects on quality or flavor.

If you open the jar, the cherries will last for a couple of months. Note that some say they are best to store them in the refrigerator. Note that, whenever possible, check the expiration date printed on the jar before purchasing; this will give you an idea of how long they will stay fresh after opening. In addition, making sure that the lid is tightly sealed when not in use can extend their shelf life by preventing air and moisture from entering the jar.

Conclusion on the Best Maraschino Cherries

In conclusion, all of the brands of maraschino cherries studied were found to be delicious and of high quality. Luxardo, Member’s Mark, Tillen Farms, Royal Harvest, and The Royal Cherry all received high marks for their flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment. If you’re looking for a tasty treat to add to your next cocktail or dessert, any of these brands would be a great choice.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maraschino_cherry

https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/in-praise-of-luxardo-cherries-article

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