Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish in this recipe?
The main dish is Delightful Neapolitan Ice Cream with Luscious Cherry Sauce.
What ingredients are needed for the cherry sauce?
You will need a 15-ounce can of pitted black cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, though you may need to add cherry juice or water to replace the liquid found in the can.
What kind of ice cream is used?
The recipe calls for Neapolitan ice cream, which features layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
What garnishes are recommended for this dessert?
The recipe suggests garnishing with slivered almonds and amaretti cookies.
How many servings does this recipe make?
Based on the ingredient list of 4 scoops of ice cream, this recipe makes 4 servings.
Is there a substitute for cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or a flour slurry can be used as alternative thickeners for the sauce.
What is the purpose of lemon juice in the sauce?
The lemon juice provides a bright tartness that balances the sweetness of the cherries and ice cream.
Can I use frozen cherries for the sauce?
Yes, frozen cherries work well; just ensure you thaw them and use the juice that is released during the process.
What are amaretti cookies?
Amaretti cookies are crunchy Italian almond-flavored macaroons that add elegance and texture to the dish.
How do I start making the sauce?
Begin by pouring the reserved cherry juice into a small saucepan and bringing it to a boil.
How long does it take for the sauce to thicken?
The sauce typically thickens within 1 to 2 minutes after adding the cornstarch slurry.
Should the juice be boiling when adding the slurry?
Yes, the juice should reach a boil before you slowly whisk in the sugar and cornstarch mixture.
Do I need to cook the cherries?
The cherries should be folded into the thickened sauce and stirred for one minute until heated through.
Should the cherry sauce be hot when served?
The recipe recommends ladling the warm cherry sauce over the cold ice cream for the best experience.
Can I make the cherry sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and gently reheat it before serving.
How should I store leftover sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by whisking in a small amount of extra cherry juice or water.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
You can cook it for an additional minute or add a tiny amount of extra cornstarch slurry to reach your desired consistency.
Can I use a different type of fruit juice?
While cherry juice is preferred, pomegranate or tart berry juices can be used as alternatives.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It depends on the specific brands of ice cream and cookies used; amaretti cookies often contain wheat flour unless specified otherwise.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 9 grams of fat per serving.
What is the protein content of this dessert?
One serving provides about 2 grams of protein.
Are there nuts in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses slivered almonds and amaretti cookies, both of which contain nuts.
What occasions are best for serving this?
It is ideal for warm summer evenings, special celebrations, or as a simple sweet treat at home.
Can I use vanilla ice cream instead of Neapolitan?
Absolutely, the cherry sauce pairs beautifully with plain vanilla, chocolate, or even strawberry ice cream.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?
Honey or maple syrup can be used as substitutes for granulated sugar in the cherry sauce.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweet and colorful layers of ice cream and fruit sauce are usually very popular with children.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and use a larger saucepan to accommodate the increased volume.