This easy cherry topping sauce is a sweet and fruity delight that’s perfect for ice cream, pancakes, or desserts. Made with juicy cherries and sugar, it’s quick to whip up!
I love how simple it is to make this sauce. Just simmer the cherries, and enjoy the lovely aroma filling your kitchen! It’s a treat that makes everything taste better! 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh cherries are fantastic if they’re in season, but I often use frozen ones when fresh aren’t available. Just remember to thaw them and drain excess liquid.
Sugar: Granulated sugar works well, but you could swap for brown sugar for a richer flavor. If you’re watching sugar intake, consider using a sugar alternative like honey or maple syrup in less quantity.
Cornstarch: This is essential for thickening the sauce. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour instead, though it might require slightly more and will result in a different texture.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor. If you don’t have any fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is a fine substitute.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a lovely depth. If you’re out of vanilla, consider almond extract for a unique twist, just use a little less since it’s stronger!
How Do You Make Sure Your Sauce Thickens Properly?
The key to a great cherry topping sauce is the thickening process. Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfectly:
- Make sure to add the cornstarch slurry to the boiling cherry mixture slowly while whisking. This helps it distribute evenly.
- Cook for a couple of minutes after adding the slurry. This time is essential to activate the thickening properties.
- If your sauce isn’t thickening enough, mix a little more cornstarch with cold water and repeat the process until you reach your desired consistency.
Let the sauce cool for a few minutes before serving. It will thicken more as it cools down, making it the perfect topping for desserts!
Easy Cherry Topping Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cherry topping sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delightful sauce ready in just about 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cherry Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and water. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is mixed evenly.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Set the saucepan over medium heat. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. This will help release the juices from the cherries.
3. Make the Cornstarch Slurry:
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. This will help thicken your sauce.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Once your cherry mixture is boiling, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Be sure to stir continuously to keep the sauce smooth. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and has a glossy appearance.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the lemon juice for some brightness, and add vanilla extract if you’d like a hint of sweetness. Give it another good stir!
6. Cool and Serve:
Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or chill it in the fridge for later use.
7. Enjoy!
Spoon the delightful cherry topping over ice cream, pancakes, cheesecake, or your favorite desserts. Enjoy the sweet and tart flavor that elevates any dish!
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work great in this recipe—just make sure to thaw them before using. You may want to drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery sauce.
Can I Adjust the Sugar in This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, start with 1/4 cup of sugar and taste as you go. You can also use sugar alternatives like honey or maple syrup.
How Should I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftover cherry topping sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To serve later, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Just give it a good stir before serving and reheat if desired. It’s perfect for meal prep or for entertaining!
