**Delicious Holiday Recipes Using Candied Cherries for Festive Celebrations**
Guide or Summary:Recipes Using Candied Cherries are a delightful way to add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your holiday treats. Candied cherries……
Guide or Summary:
Recipes Using Candied Cherries are a delightful way to add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your holiday treats. Candied cherries, with their glossy exterior and rich flavor, are perfect for festive baking and cooking. Here, we'll explore a variety of delicious holiday recipes that incorporate candied cherries, making your celebrations even more special.
### Cherry Almond Biscotti
One of the classic holiday treats is biscotti, and when you add candied cherries, it takes this traditional Italian cookie to a whole new level. To make cherry almond biscotti, you will need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup slivered almonds
- 1 cup chopped candied cherries
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs and add the vanilla and almond extracts. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the almonds and candied cherries.
Shape the dough into two logs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool, then slice into 1/2-inch pieces. Bake the slices again for 10-15 minutes until they are crisp. These biscotti are perfect for dipping into coffee or hot cocoa.
### Cherry Chocolate Fudge
For a rich and decadent treat, try making cherry chocolate fudge. This recipe is simple and doesn't require any baking. You will need:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract, candied cherries, and walnuts.
Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8-inch baking pan and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Cut into small squares and enjoy this sweet, cherry-studded fudge.
### Cherry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
A twist on the classic pineapple upside-down cake, this version includes candied cherries for an extra burst of flavor. You will need:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices, drained
- 1 cup candied cherries
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9x13-inch baking pan, melt the butter in the oven. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter. Arrange the pineapple slices over the sugar, and place a candied cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.
Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions and pour the batter over the pineapple and cherries. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. This cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning.
### Cherry Almond Scones
Scones are a wonderful addition to any holiday breakfast or brunch. Adding candied cherries gives them a festive touch. You will need:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup chopped candied cherries
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the candied cherries and almonds.
In a small bowl, combine the heavy cream and almond extract. Add this to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into wedges.
Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. These scones are best served warm with a dollop of clotted cream or butter.
### Conclusion
These Recipes Using Candied Cherries are sure to bring joy and festivity to your holiday celebrations. Whether you're making biscotti, fudge, cake, or scones, the addition of candied cherries adds a special touch that will delight your family and friends. Happy baking!