Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream

Fresh cherries are oven-roasted with balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and almond extract to create a delicious sauce that perfectly complements vanilla ice cream. This Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream recipe is not only a delightful dessert but also an elegant addition to any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The sweet and tangy flavors of the cherries paired with creamy vanilla ice cream make for a unique treat that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create an outstanding dessert in under 35 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted cherries and balsamic vinegar creates a rich, complex flavor that elevates any scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Versatile Use: Serve it warm over ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt for a versatile topping that works for breakfast or dessert.
• Seasonal Delight: This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of fresh summer cherries, making it perfect for seasonal gatherings.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy balsamic glaze gives this dish an eye-catching look that will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting the cherries, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Aluminum foil: Helps with easy cleanup and prevents the cherries from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

Fresh cherries are oven-roasted with balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and almond extract to create a delicious sauce that’s the perfect accompaniment to vanilla ice cream.

For the Roasted Cherries

• 1 pound bing cherries (washed and pitted)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar (divided)
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Pinch of salt

For Serving

• Your favorite vanilla ice cream

How to Make Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. Line the baking sheet with aluminum foil, then spray the foil again with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherries

Place the pitted cherries in a medium bowl.

Step 3: Make the Balsamic Mixture

In a small bowl, combine:
1. Balsamic vinegar
2. 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
3. Almond extract
4. A pinch of salt

Pour this mixture over the cherries and toss gently to coat them evenly.

Step 4: Roast the Cherries

Pour the cherries and balsamic mixture onto the prepared pan in an even layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the cherries have softened and begun to release their juices.

Step 5: Cool and Adjust Sweetness

Return the roasted cherries along with any juices to a medium bowl. Let them cool slightly before tasting for sweetness. If desired, add an additional tablespoon of brown sugar and mix well.

Step 6: Serve Over Ice Cream

Serve warm over your favorite vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience!

How to Serve Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream

Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream is a delightful dessert that combines warm, sweet cherries with creamy ice cream. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in a bowl: Place a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream in a bowl and top it with the warm roasted cherries for a comforting treat.

Dessert Parfait

• Layer it up: Alternate layers of roasted cherries and vanilla ice cream in a glass for an eye-catching parfait. Top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Cherries on Waffles

• Breakfast twist: Drizzle the roasted balsamic cherries over warm waffles or pancakes for a unique breakfast option that adds a touch of elegance.

Cherry Sundae

• Sundae fun: Create a cherry sundae by adding nuts, chocolate sauce, or caramel drizzle on top of the ice cream and cherries.

Cheesecake Topping

• Sweet addition: Use the roasted balsamic cherries as a topping for cheesecake. The tartness pairs beautifully with the creamy texture.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Creative combo: Sandwich the roasted cherries between two cookies or brownies along with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a playful dessert.

How to Perfect Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream

To make your Roasted Balsamic Cherries even better, here are some helpful tips to consider.

• Choose ripe cherries: Select fresh, ripe bing cherries for the best flavor and sweetness in your dessert.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the roasted mixture before serving; you can add more brown sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
• Use high-quality balsamic vinegar: A good quality balsamic enhances the depth of flavor in your cherry sauce.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enrich the flavor profile of your cherries.
• Serve warm: For the best experience, serve your cherry sauce warm over cold vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast.
• Pair wisely: Consider pairing this dish with other desserts like brownies or pound cake for added texture and flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream

While Roasted Balsamic Cherries are delightful on their own, they can be paired with several side dishes to enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Shortbread Cookies: These buttery cookies provide a crunchy contrast to the soft cherries and creamy ice cream.
2. Chocolate Cake: A slice of rich chocolate cake complements the tart sweetness of the cherries perfectly.
3. Pound Cake: The dense texture of pound cake absorbs the cherry juices well, making each bite deliciously moist.
4. Crème Brûlée: The creamy custard and caramelized sugar crust offer an elegant pairing that balances flavors nicely.
5. Cheesecake: A slice of classic cheesecake acts as a rich base for your balsamic cherry topping.
6. Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti adds an Italian flair and is perfect for dipping into cherry sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes you should avoid:

• Not pitting the cherries: Always remember to pit your cherries before roasting. Leaving the pits in can lead to an unpleasant texture and make it difficult to enjoy the dessert.
• Skipping the resting period: Don’t rush the cooling process after roasting. Allowing the cherries to cool slightly helps enhance their flavor and makes them easier to serve over ice cream.
• Overcooking the cherries: Keep an eye on your cherries while they roast. Overcooking can turn them mushy and lose their delightful texture, which is essential for this recipe.
• Ignoring sweetness adjustments: Taste the roasted mixture before serving. If you find it lacks sweetness, feel free to add a bit more brown sugar, but do so gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Using low-quality balsamic vinegar: The quality of balsamic vinegar can greatly affect the final taste. Opt for a good quality balsamic for richer flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Roasted Balsamic Cherries in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to cool them completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Place cooled cherries in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread cherries on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place cherries in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Add cherries to a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until warmed, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before roasting.

How do I make Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream without almond extract?

You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract or simply leave it out if you prefer a different flavor profile.

What is the best way to serve Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream?

Serve these delicious roasted cherries warm over scoops of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts or sugars based on your preference. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also provide an interesting twist.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream is a delightful dessert that combines sweet and tangy flavors beautifully. This versatile treat can be customized in many ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed as a simple weeknight dessert, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich flavors!

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Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of Roasted Balsamic Cherries with Vanilla Ice Cream. This elegant dessert features fresh cherries oven-roasted to perfection with balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and almond extract, creating a rich sauce that complements creamy vanilla ice cream beautifully. In just under 35 minutes, you can transform seasonal cherries into a gourmet treat that will wow your guests at any gathering. The sweet-tangy flavor profile of the cherries enhances the smoothness of the ice cream, making it a versatile dessert option for both casual meals and special occasions. Enjoy this unique dessert warm over ice cream, or get creative by using it as a topping for pancakes or yogurt.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound bing cherries (washed and pitted)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar (divided)
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Pinch of salt
• Your favorite vanilla ice cream

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray and line it with aluminum foil, then spray again.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the pitted cherries.
3. In a small bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, almond extract, and salt. Pour this mixture over the cherries and toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread the cherries on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer and roast for 20-25 minutes until softened.
5. Allow the roasted cherries to cool slightly before tasting; adjust sweetness with remaining brown sugar if desired.
6. Serve warm over scoops of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 32g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg