Frozen Cherries. Recipe

Frozen cherries are a delightful and refreshing treat that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a versatile ingredient in various desserts. This recipe has its roots in the early 20th century when freezing technology started to make its way into homes across the globe. It quickly became a popular method to preserve the flavors of seasonal fruits, allowing them to be enjoyed all year round.

Fun fact: Did you know that freezing cherries not only helps to preserve their flavor but also enhances their sweetness? The low temperatures break down the starches present in cherries into simple sugars, giving them a more pronounced and luscious taste.

Now, let's dive into the steps of making this classic frozen cherry recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1 quart of acid cherries
- 2 pounds of sugar
- 1 quart of ice water

Instructions:
1. Begin by stoning the quart of acid cherries. Remove the pits carefully using a cherry pitter or a small knife. It is crucial to choose cherries that are slightly sour for this recipe as the freezing process will intensify their flavor.

2. Once all the cherries are pitted, place them in a large mixing bowl. Add two pounds of sugar to the cherries and mix well. Allow the cherries to sit in the sugar for about an hour. This step helps to macerate the fruit and draw out its juices, creating a sweet syrup.

3. After an hour, ensure that the cherries and sugar are thoroughly mixed. The sugar will dissolve, creating a sticky syrup that will coat the cherries.

4. Next, add a quart of ice water to the cherry mixture. The ice water will lower the temperature of the cherries and help initiate the freezing process. Stir the mixture gently to distribute the cold water evenly.

5. Transfer the cherry mixture to an ice cream freezer. If you don't have an ice cream freezer, you can use a large freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave enough space in the container for the cherries to expand as they freeze.

6. Start the freezing process, ensuring to stir the mixture rapidly every 10-15 minutes to prevent ice crystals from forming. If using an ice cream freezer, follow the manufacturer's instructions for churning and freezing. Continue this process until the cherries reach the desired consistency, typically taking around 1-2 hours.

7. Once the cherries are frozen, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the texture to become smoother and easier to serve.

8. Serve the frozen cherries in bowls or glasses, and enjoy their vibrant flavors and refreshing taste!

Fun fact: Frozen cherries can also be used as an excellent topping for ice cream, yogurt, or even as an ingredient in cocktails and smoothies. Their intense sweetness and vibrant color will elevate any dish they are added to.

Similar frozen fruit dessert recipes you might enjoy:
- Frozen mixed berries: Substitute cherries with a mix of your favorite berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Follow the same recipe, adjusting the sugar according to the sweetness of the berries.
- Frozen citrus cups: Instead of cherries, use a combination of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. Adjust the sugar accordingly to balance out their natural tartness.
- Frozen pineapple delight: Swap out the cherries for freshly diced pineapple pieces. Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.

Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or a cozy winter evening, frozen cherries are a refreshing treat that will transport your taste buds to fruity bliss. So go ahead, try this classic recipe, and savor the sweet taste of frozen cherries!