Sweet-and-Tart Cherry Compote
Elevate your desserts and breakfasts with this delightful Sweet-and-Tart Cherry Compote. This recipe takes fresh or frozen tart cherries and transforms them into a luscious sauce that is both sweet and tangy. Perfect for drizzling over cheesecake, pancakes, ice cream, or even serving with meats, this versatile compote is a must-have addition to your culinary repertoire. This easy-to-make sauce requires only a few ingredients and is ready in no time. Make it in batches and share with friends and family, or store it in the fridge for quick, delicious flavor enhancement anytime you need it!
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
sugar
3/4 cup (granulated)
cornstarch
2 teaspoons (uncooked)
salt
1 dash (to taste)
water
1/3 cup (cold)
tart red cherries
4 cups (fresh pitted or frozen unsweetened)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and dash of salt, whisking them together until well mixed.
2
Slowly add the water to the dry mixture, stirring to create a smooth paste without lumps.
3
Place the saucepan over medium heat and add the pitted cherries.
4
Cook the mixture while stirring gently until it comes to a gentle boil. Continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly.
5
Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sweet-and-Tart Cherry Compote?
It is a luscious, versatile sauce made from cherries, sugar, and cornstarch, designed to elevate desserts and breakfasts.
What kind of cherries are best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for tart red cherries, either fresh pitted or frozen unsweetened.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen unsweetened tart cherries work perfectly for this compote.
How many ingredients are required for this cherry compote?
This recipe requires only 5 ingredients: sugar, cornstarch, salt, water, and tart red cherries.
What can I serve with this cherry compote?
It is delicious over cheesecake, pancakes, ice cream, or even served alongside various meats.
How do I thicken the cherry compote?
The sauce is thickened using two teaspoons of uncooked cornstarch mixed with water and heated.
How long does the cooking process take?
Once the mixture reaches a gentle boil, it should cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until thickened.
Can I use fresh cherries for this sauce?
Yes, 4 cups of fresh pitted tart red cherries can be used instead of frozen.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 10 servings.
Do I need to add water to the recipe?
Yes, 1/3 cup of cold water is used to create a smooth paste with the dry ingredients.
How much sugar is included in the compote?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of granulated sugar.
Can I substitute sweet cherries for tart cherries?
While the recipe specifies tart cherries for a 'sweet-and-tart' flavor, sweet cherries can be used, though you may want to adjust the sugar.
How should I store the finished cherry compote?
Store the compote in an airtight container in the refrigerator once it has cooled.
What is the first step in making this compote?
The first step is to whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan.
Why should I whisk the dry ingredients before adding liquid?
Whisking them first ensures they are well mixed and helps prevent lumps from forming when water is added.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients (sugar, cornstarch, salt, water, cherries), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this compote contains no animal products and is suitable for a vegan diet.
What is the flavor profile of this sauce?
It features a balanced sweet and tangy flavor from the combination of sugar and tart red cherries.
Should the compote be served hot or cold?
It can be served warm after cooling slightly, or chilled from the refrigerator.
How much salt is needed for this recipe?
Only a dash of salt is needed to enhance the flavors.
Can I make this cherry compote in batches?
Yes, it is easy to make in batches to share with friends and family.
Is this sauce versatile?
Absolutely, it is described as a versatile sauce suitable for desserts, breakfast, and savory dishes.
Why does the mixture need to come to a boil?
A gentle boil is required to activate the cornstarch and allow the sauce to thicken properly.
How do I ensure the sauce doesn't have lumps?
Slowly add the water to the dry sugar and cornstarch mixture while stirring to create a smooth paste.
Does this recipe contain any fat or cholesterol?
No, the ingredients used are naturally fat-free and cholesterol-free.
Is this a good topping for cheesecake?
Yes, it is specifically recommended as a perfect topping for cheesecake.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized under Sauces.
Can this be used as a pancake syrup alternative?
Yes, it is a wonderful alternative to syrup for drizzling over pancakes.
How many cups of cherries are required?
You will need 4 cups of pitted tart red cherries.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is an easy-to-make recipe that requires only a few ingredients and simple steps.