Can I Make Maraschino Cherries at Home?

Homemade Maraschino cherries are not only possible—they’re often better than the overly sweet, neon-red versions found on supermarket shelves. Making them from scratch lets you control sweetness, texture, and flavor, showcasing real cherries in a rich syrup with your preferred touches.

What Goes Into Homemade Maraschino Cherries?

Traditional Maraschino cherries were preserved in maraschino liqueur. Today, most store-bought versions skip the real liqueur and use artificial coloring and preservatives. At home, you can opt for an alcohol-free version or add real maraschino liqueur for authentic flavor.

Fresh, firm cherries (sweet or sour depending on your taste)
Sugar and water to create a saturated syrup
Optional: maraschino liqueur or a small amount of almond extract for flavor
Lemon juice for brightness; sometimes vanilla or spices for extra depth

Basic Homemade Maraschino Cherries Recipe

500 g fresh cherries (pitted, stems can stay for presentation)
250 ml water
200 g sugar (about 240 ml)
15 ml lemon juice
Optional: 30–60 ml maraschino liqueur or 2 ml pure almond extract

How to Make Your Own Maraschino Cherries

Combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Heat until sugar is dissolved.
Add pitted cherries. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until cherries become deep red.
Remove from heat; stir in maraschino liqueur or almond extract if using.
Cool to room temperature, then transfer cherries with syrup to a sterilized jar.
Let sit overnight in the fridge for best flavor. They keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for the Best Homemade Cherries

Select firm, ripe cherries. Overripe or soft cherries will break down in syrup.
Keep some stems for visual appeal—classic look for cocktail garnish.
Flavor variations: experiment with a splash of vanilla extract, cinnamon stick, or orange peel simmered in syrup.
Let flavors meld overnight before serving in Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, or on sundaes.

Why Make Maraschino Cherries at Home?

Making maraschino cherries at home gives you real fruit flavor, custom sweetness, and natural coloring. There’s no artificial aftertaste or syrupy excess. Whether you enjoy them as a cocktail garnish or a dessert topping, homemade cherries add genuine cherry character and a personal touch to every glass.