Easy Cherry Sauce Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Cherry Sauce is a vibrant, sweet, and slightly tart topping that’s perfect for cheesecakes, pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or even roasted meats. Made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes, it brings a burst of fresh cherry flavor to any dish, whether you’re using fresh, frozen, or canned cherries.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cherries (fresh, frozen, or canned)pure vanilla extractgranulated sugarlemon juicecornstarchwater

directions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice.

In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with water until fully dissolved.

Once the cherry mixture begins to simmer, stir in the cornstarch slurry.

Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens—about 5-7 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Let the sauce cool slightly before serving or store in the refrigerator once cooled.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 2 cups of cherry sauce.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesCooling time: 10-15 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor.

Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.

Stir in whole pitted cherries for extra texture.

Swap lemon juice for orange juice for a citrus twist.

Use sour cherries for a tangier sauce.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain smoothness.Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries work great. No need to thaw before cooking.

Can I make this sauce sugar-free?

Yes, use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, adjusting to taste.

How do I thicken cherry sauce?

Cornstarch is the easiest thickener; arrowroot or flour can also be used.

Can I use canned cherries?

Yes, just drain them first and reduce the sugar slightly.

Will this sauce set like jam?

No, it’s more fluid and spoonable, perfect for topping desserts.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely—it keeps well and flavors deepen after chilling.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

Can I use this as a pie filling?

You can, but it’s best for topping rather than as a structured filling.

How can I make it brighter in color?

A tiny drop of red food coloring can enhance the hue if desired.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just adjust the pot size and cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Easy Cherry Sauce is a quick and delicious way to elevate both desserts and savory dishes. Its versatility, simple preparation, and bold flavor make it a kitchen staple you’ll reach for again and again.

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