Timeless Classic Cherries Jubilee: A Flambéed Delight
In the tapestry of time-honored desserts, few can claim the drama, elegance, and sheer delight of Cherries Jubilee. Born amidst the sparkling banquets of the late 19th century and rumored to have been crafted in honor of Queen Victoria’s jubilee celebrations, this dessert holds a royal pedigree. This is not just a dish but an experience. As the blue flames gently dance and caress the cherries, they release a bouquet of aromas that are as enchanting as the taste itself. Whether you’re revisiting this classic or discovering it for the first time, prepare to be mesmerized. Cherries Jubilee is a classic dessert that looks and feels oh so elegant and yet is oh so simple to prepare, taking only a few minutes to prepare.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
3 c. fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
3 T. granulated sugar
1 T. fresh lemon juice
1/4 c. Kirsch or rum
vanilla ice cream for serving
chopped almonds or crushed cookies for serving
Directions:
Combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium skillet over medium heat.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the cherries release their juices, approximately 6-7 minutes.
Remove the skillet from the heat and pour in the rum. Carefully ignite the alcohol with a utility lighter and return the skillet back to medium heat.
Gently shake the pan with the cherries until the flame extinguishes itself.
Stir the cherries and continue cooking for another minute.
If you prefer to skip flambéing, you could just cook out the alcohol on the stovetop or skip the alcohol altogether and add a splash of cherry juice and vanilla extract in its place.
Spoon the cherry jubilee over vanilla ice cream and top with almonds or cookies, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
As we wrap up our journey through the flames and flavors of Cherries Jubilee, it’s clear that this isn’t just another dessert—it’s a celebration, a performance, and an ode to the culinary traditions of yesteryears. Beyond the spectacle of the flambé and the burst of warm cherry goodness on the palate, it’s the stories and memories weave with each serving that makes it truly special. Whether you’re sharing this dessert with friends on a summer evening or reviving a family tradition during festive seasons, Cherries Jubilee stands as a testament to the timeless allure of simple ingredients meeting extraordinary technique. Here’s to many more jubilant celebrations with this iconic treat. Until next time, keep the flame of culinary passion alive, and remember: every cherry has its jubilee.
And if you have any leftover cherries, you can always make this recipe.
Timeless Classic Cherries Jubilee: A Flambéed Delight
Ingredients
- 3 c. fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 3 T. granulated sugar
- 1 T. fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 c. Kirsch or rum
- vanilla ice cream for serving
- chopped almonds or crushed cookies for serving
Instructions
- Combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium skillet over medium heat.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the cherries release their juices, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and pour in the rum. Carefully ignite the alcohol with a utility lighter and return the skillet back to medium heat.
- Gently shake the pan with the cherries until the flame extinguishes itself.
- Stir the cherries and continue cooking for another minute.
- If you prefer to skip flambéing, you could just cook out the alcohol on the stovetop or skip the alcohol altogether and add a splash of cherry juice and vanilla extract in its place.
- Spoon the cherry jubilee over vanilla ice cream and top with almonds or cookies, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
