Maraschino

Maraschino Cherries

Maraschino cherries is a preserved, sweetened cherries, typically made from light-colored sweet cherries such as the Royal Ann, Rainier or Gold varieties. The cherries are first preserved in a brine solution usually containing sulfur dioxide or alcohol, then soaked in a suspension of food coloring (common red food dye, FD&C Red 40), sugar syrup, and other components. Maraschino cherries dyed red are typically almond-flavored, while cherries dyed green are sometimes peppermint-flavored.

Maraschino Liqueur

Maraschino liqueur is a clear, relatively dry liqueur made from Marasca cherries, including the crushed pits which give it a subtle bitter almond flavor. The cherries are processed and distilled much like brandy, and later combined with a pure cane syrup before it is aged and filtered. The most common brand is Luxardo. Not to be confused with Cherry Brandy or maraschino cherry syrup (see above).