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Easy Cherry Sauce

A vibrant and flavorful sauce that enhances any meal, perfect for drizzling over desserts or breakfast dishes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert, Sauce
Cuisine: American, Homemade
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted Use fresh cherries when available for optimal flavor.
  • 1/2 cup sugar Adjust based on your sweetness preference.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Fresh lemon juice is preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Used for thickening the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup water To help dissolve the sugar and aid in cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavor of the sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If using fresh cherries, wash them thoroughly, remove the stems, and pit them. Frozen cherries can be used directly without thawing.
Cooking
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir gently to help dissolve the sugar.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Once the cherry mixture is boiling, add the slurry and stir continuously for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, improving the flavor and aroma of the sauce.
  5. Let the sauce cool slightly before serving; it will continue to thicken as it cools.

Notes

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding water if the sauce thickens too much.