Grappa-Infused Cherries: A Sweet Italian Preserve

Ciliegie Sotto Grappa
Category: Jams & Preserves
Servings: 1 Jar

Ciliegie sotto grappa, or cherries soaked in grappa, is an exquisite Italian preserve that combines the sweet, tart flavor of fresh cherries with the warm, aromatic essence of grappa. Perfect for gifting or for a special treat, this delightful preserve captures the essence of summer and infuses it with the boldness of grappa, creating an indulgent yet simple jar of goodness. Here’s how to make your very own Ciliegie sotto grappa at home.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Sanitize the Jars
   Begin by properly sanitizing your jars. This is an important step to ensure that your preserve stays fresh and free from contaminants. Fill a pot with water, place your jars inside, and bring it to a simmer. Let the jars simmer for about 30 minutes, then carefully remove them from the pot using tongs. Set the jars upside down on a clean kitchen towel to dry completely.

2. Prepare the Cherries
   While the jars are drying, take your fresh cherries and wash them thoroughly. Using a pair of kitchen scissors, trim the stems off each cherry. This step is important because you want the cherries to be free of any excess parts that may affect the preservation process.

3. Fill the Jars
   Once your jars are dry and ready, begin placing the cherries inside each jar. Be gentle to avoid bruising the cherries, and make sure the jars are packed firmly but not overly tight. Add approximately 15 grams of sugar to each jar, adjusting based on the jar’s size. The sugar will help to balance the tartness of the cherries and enhance the flavor of the preserve.

4. Add the Grappa
   Now, pour the grappa into the jars, ensuring that the cherries are completely covered by the liquor. Depending on the size of your jars and the amount of cherries you’ve used, you might have some grappa left over. This is perfectly fine, as it can be saved for another batch or simply enjoyed on its own.

5. Seal and Press
   To keep the cherries submerged and prevent any air pockets, place a small piece of plastic wrap on top of the cherries inside each jar. Press down gently to remove any excess air, and then securely seal the jars. Be sure to tighten the lids well, but avoid over-tightening, as this can interfere with the sealing process.

6. Macerate
   Store the sealed jars in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Allow them to macerate for at least 30 days before opening. The longer they sit, the richer and more intense the flavors will become as the cherries soak up the grappa and sugar.

Notes:

• Storage: Once opened, the Ciliegie sotto grappa should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within a few weeks.
• Serving Suggestions: These cherries make a fantastic addition to desserts, as a topping for ice cream or cakes, or even enjoyed on their own as a decadent after-dinner treat.
• Customization: You can experiment with different types of grappa, such as aged or flavored varieties, to give your preserve a unique twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

This recipe for Ciliegie sotto grappa captures the essence of Italian tradition and offers a perfect balance of sweet and spirited flavors. Whether you’re a fan of preserves or looking for a unique way to enjoy fresh cherries, this simple yet delicious preserve is sure to impress. Enjoy making this classic treat, and remember, good things come to those who wait—let the cherries macerate for at least 30 days for the best flavor experience!