Are brandied cherries the same as maraschino cherries? This is a question that often confuses people, as the terms “brandied cherries” and “maraschino cherries” are used interchangeably in many cases. However, there is actually a significant difference between the two.
To understand the difference, let's first delve into what each of these terms means. Maraschino cherries are cherries that have been preserved in a sweet syrup, typically made from cherries that have been bleached and then soaked in a mixture of sugar and almond flavoring. The result is a bright red, artificially flavored cherry that is commonly used as a garnish in cocktails and desserts.
On the other hand, “brandied cherries” refer to cherries that have been preserved in maraschino liqueur, also known as cherry brandy. Maraschino liqueur is a clear, sweet liqueur made from Marasca cherries, a type of sour cherry. It has a distinct cherry flavor with hints of almond and is often used as a base for cocktails.
Now, here's where things get interesting. Despite the name, most maraschino cherries on the market today do not actually contain maraschino liqueur. Instead, they are simply preserved in a syrup made from artificial flavors and colors. The cherries used in these products are typically bleached to remove their natural color and then soaked in a mixture of sugar, water, and artificial flavorings.
So, in reality, there are very few, if any, actual brandied cherries available on the market. Even the companies that produce maraschino liqueur do not use it in their maraschino cherries. The term “brandied cherry” has become more of a marketing term than an accurate description of the product.
That being said, there are some artisanal brands that produce true brandied cherries. These cherries are typically made by steeping fresh cherries in maraschino liqueur or another type of fruit brandy. The result is a rich, boozy cherry with a complex flavor profile that is far superior to the artificially flavored maraschino cherries commonly found in grocery stores.
Brandied cherries and maraschino cherries are not the same thing. While brandied cherries are preserved in maraschino liqueur, most maraschino cherries on the market today do not contain any actual maraschino liqueur. If you're looking for a true brandied cherry experience, it's best to seek out artisanal brands or make your own by steeping cherries in maraschino liqueur or other fruit brandies.