Flaming Summer Cherry Delight
Indulge in the spectacular flavors of summer with this Flaming Summer Cherry Delight, an elegant dessert that takes center stage at any gathering. This rich and decadent dish is a twist on the classic Cherries Jubilee, elevating it with the warmth and complexity of cherry brandy. The freshly pitted Bing cherries are enveloped in a luscious red currant glaze, enhanced by a hint of citrus from the orange peel, all harmonizing beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream. The pièce de résistance is the dramatic flambé, where the brandy ignites, infusing your dessert with robust flavors while adding a touch of theatrical flair. Easy to prepare, this impressive dish is perfect for summer evenings and special occasions alike!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Canned Bing cherries
16 ounces (pitted and drained)
Red currant jelly
3/4 cup (melted)
Orange peel
1/4 teaspoon (finely grated)
Cherry brandy
1/4 cup (heated slowly)
Vanilla ice cream
4 scoops (served in bowls)
Fresh mint sprigs
4 sprigs (for garnish (optional))
Instructions
1
Begin by scooping a portion of vanilla ice cream into each of the serving bowls and set them aside.
2
In a small skillet, gently heat the cherry brandy over low heat, ensuring it warms slowly to preserve its alcohol content.
3
In a separate medium skillet, melt the red currant jelly over low heat, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth.
4
Once the jelly is melted, add the drained Bing cherries and the finely grated orange peel to the skillet, stirring continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
5
Carefully return to the small skillet with the warmed cherry brandy. Using a long lighter or match, ignite the brandy while keeping your face and any flammable items at a safe distance. Allow the flame to flare for about 5-10 seconds.
6
Pour the flaming brandy over the cherry mixture, being cautious as you do so. Stir quickly to blend everything together until the flame extinguishes.
7
Spoon the warm cherry sauce generously over each scoop of vanilla ice cream.
8
For an elegant touch, garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh mint, if desired, before serving immediately.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Flaming Summer Cherry Delight?
Flaming Summer Cherry Delight is an elegant dessert consisting of Bing cherries in a red currant glaze, flavored with orange peel and cherry brandy, flambéed and served over vanilla ice cream.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What type of cherries are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 16 ounces of canned Bing cherries, pitted and drained.
What is the primary glaze made of?
The primary glaze is made by melting 3/4 cup of red currant jelly.
What kind of alcohol is used for the flambé?
A 1/4 cup of cherry brandy is used to provide the flambé effect and flavor complexity.
How much orange peel should I use?
You should use 1/4 teaspoon of finely grated orange peel.
What kind of ice cream is recommended for serving?
Vanilla ice cream is recommended, specifically four scoops, one for each serving bowl.
Is there a recommended garnish?
Yes, you can garnish each serving with an optional sprig of fresh mint.
What is the first step in preparing this dessert?
The first step is to scoop the vanilla ice cream into serving bowls and set them aside.
How should the cherry brandy be heated?
The cherry brandy should be heated slowly over low heat in a small skillet to preserve its alcohol content.
How do I melt the red currant jelly?
Melt the red currant jelly in a medium skillet over low heat, stirring constantly until it is completely smooth.
When do I add the cherries to the glaze?
Add the drained cherries and grated orange peel once the red currant jelly is melted and smooth.
How long should the cherry mixture boil?
The mixture should be stirred continuously until it comes to a gentle boil before adding the brandy.
How do I ignite the cherry brandy?
Use a long lighter or match to ignite the warmed brandy while keeping your face and flammable items at a safe distance.
How long should the brandy flame for?
Allow the brandy to flare for approximately 5 to 10 seconds after ignition.
What should I do after the brandy is ignited?
Pour the flaming brandy over the cherry mixture and stir quickly until the flame is extinguished.
How do I finish the dish for serving?
Spoon the warm cherry sauce generously over each scoop of ice cream and serve immediately.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, despite its theatrical flambé, the recipe is described as easy to prepare and perfect for beginners.
How many total ingredients are required?
The recipe requires 6 ingredients including the optional mint garnish.
What is the inspiration for this dish?
This dish is a twist on the classic Cherries Jubilee.
Can I use fresh cherries for this recipe?
The recipe specifies canned Bing cherries (16 oz), but fresh pitted cherries could likely be used if they are prepared similarly.
What safety precautions are mentioned for the flambé?
Keep your face and any flammable items at a safe distance and use a long lighter or match when igniting the alcohol.
Why is it important to heat the brandy slowly?
Heating it slowly over low heat ensures the alcohol content is preserved for a successful flambé.
What does the orange peel add to the flavor profile?
The orange peel provides a hint of citrus that enhances the sweetness of the cherries and the glaze.
Does the alcohol remain in the dish?
While some alcohol burns off during the flambé, much of the flavor of the cherry brandy remains infused in the sauce.
When is the best time to serve this dessert?
It is perfect for summer evenings and special occasions where a theatrical presentation is desired.
Can I prepare the ice cream bowls in advance?
Yes, the instructions suggest scooping the ice cream into bowls first and setting them aside while you prepare the sauce.
What texture should the red currant jelly have?
It should be melted until it is completely smooth and liquid.
Is this a cold or hot dessert?
It is a combination of both; cold vanilla ice cream is topped with a warm, flaming cherry sauce.
How should the cherry brandy be prepared before ignition?
The cherry brandy should be warmed slowly in a small skillet until it is ready to be lit.