Cherries Jubilee Recipe: Cherries Jubilee isn’t just a dessert—it’s a performance. Imagine the oohs and aahs at the dinner table as you ignite a sweet, cherry-filled sauce in a sizzling flambé, then pour it over creamy vanilla ice cream. Sound dramatic? That’s because it is—and in the best way possible. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a pro chef to pull it off.
In this detailed, step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make this elegant, old-school dessert right in your own kitchen. It’s rich, warm, slightly boozy, and perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a sweet moment alone.
What is Cherries Jubilee?
History & Origin of the Dish
Cherries Jubilee dates back to the late 19th century and was created by the legendary French chef Auguste Escoffier. He invented the dish to honor Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee celebration. Its royal roots are evident in every bite—sweet cherries, flambéed in liqueur, and served over ice cream.
Why It’s Still Popular Today
Why has it stood the test of time? Probably because it checks every box: it’s visually stunning, surprisingly easy to make, and deliciously satisfying. Plus, there’s something undeniably cool about setting food on fire (safely, of course).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
You don’t need a long shopping list or fancy techniques. Just a few ingredients—cherries, sugar, butter, and liqueur—transform into something spectacular.
A Show-Stopping Dessert
Let’s face it, most desserts don’t come with their own built-in light show. Cherries Jubilee is a rare treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients List
Here’s everything you need to whip up this delicious dessert:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries (sweet dark cherries work best)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Kirsch (cherry brandy), or brandy
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A dash of cinnamon
- Orange zest for a citrusy twist
Keep it classic, or jazz it up—your choice.
Equipment You’ll Need
You don’t need a professional kitchen to flambé. Just make sure you have these basics:
- Medium skillet (preferably stainless steel)
- Long lighter or matches
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Ice cream scoop
- Fire extinguisher (safety first!)
If you’re feeling fancy, a flambé pan adds a touch of elegance—but a regular skillet works just fine.
Preparation Tips Before You Start
Prepping Cherries
If you’re using fresh cherries, wash, dry, and pit them. A cherry pitter will save you loads of time. If you’re using frozen cherries, just thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid a watery sauce.
Safety Tips for Flambéing
This part’s crucial. Turn off your kitchen fan, keep flammable items away, and have a lid nearby to smother the flames if needed. Don’t pour alcohol straight from the bottle into the pan over heat—that’s a recipe for disaster.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Cherries Jubilee
Let’s get cooking (and flaming)!
Step 1: Prep the Cherries
Start by washing, pitting, and halving your cherries if needed. If using frozen, make sure they’re completely thawed and drained. This step makes the sauce thicker and richer without added water.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until it’s fully liquid and starting to sizzle slightly.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Cook
Add 1/2 cup sugar to the melted butter and stir. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to caramelize slightly. Stir in the lemon juice and a splash of water to thin out the mixture.
Add in the cherries and cook them for 5–7 minutes until they’re softened and juicy, releasing their bright red color into the sauce.
Step 4: Add Liqueur & Flambé
Remove the skillet from the heat, and pour in the 1/4 cup Kirsch or brandy. Return it to the heat, then carefully ignite the alcohol using a long lighter. Stand back—it will flame up quickly.
Let the flames burn off naturally (about 30 seconds), giving the dish its signature smoky flavor.
Step 5: Serve Over Ice Cream
Scoop generous portions of vanilla ice cream into serving bowls. Spoon the warm cherry sauce over the top, making sure to include plenty of syrup.
You’re done! A show-stopping dessert ready in less than 20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
There’s more than one way to enjoy Cherries Jubilee, and while vanilla ice cream is the traditional pairing, there’s no rule saying you can’t switch things up.
Classic Pairings
- Vanilla Ice Cream – This is the go-to and for a good reason. The cold, creamy base balances the warm, sweet cherries perfectly.
- Pound Cake – A thick slice of buttery pound cake soaked in cherry sauce? Yes, please.
- Crepes or Pancakes – Fold it into crepes for a decadent brunch or drizzle it over pancakes for something truly unforgettable.
Creative Ways to Serve
- Over Cheesecake – Replace your usual strawberry topping with a Cherries Jubilee sauce for a dramatic upgrade.
- In a Parfait – Layer yogurt, granola, and cherry sauce for a beautiful breakfast or dessert.
- As a Cocktail Garnish – Yep, spoon a bit of the sauce (without the ice cream) into a bourbon cocktail or an Old Fashioned for a boozy cherry twist.
This dessert isn’t just tasty—it’s incredibly versatile. Make it your own.
Substitutions and Variations
Don’t have all the ingredients? Or want to try something a bit different? No worries, here are some flexible ideas:
Alcohol-Free Version
Want to skip the booze but still enjoy the flavor? You can:
- Use cherry juice or grape juice in place of the Kirsch or brandy.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract for added complexity.
- Skip the flambé step—just simmer the cherries in the juice until thick.
You’ll still get a rich, fruity sauce that pairs beautifully with ice cream.
Different Fruits You Can Use
Not into cherries? Here are some delicious alternatives:
- Peaches – Use sliced peaches and peach schnapps or brandy.
- Berries – Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries work well with orange liqueur.
- Apples or Pears – Saute in butter and sugar, then flambé with apple brandy or cognac.
The technique remains the same, but the flavor combos are endless.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cherries Jubilee
Want to absolutely nail this dish? Keep these tips in mind:
- Use a high-proof liqueur (at least 40%) – Anything less won’t ignite properly.
- Don’t overcook the cherries – You want them soft, not mushy. They should hold their shape.
- Flambé with the lights dimmed – Not just for effect—it helps you see the flame better and control it.
- Use real vanilla ice cream – Not the low-fat stuff. You want that rich, creamy contrast.
And most importantly—relax and have fun with it. This dessert is meant to dazzle, not stress you out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple dish like Cherries Jubilee can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
Mistake #1: Adding Alcohol Over a Lit Flame
This is not just wrong—it’s dangerous. Always remove your pan from the heat before adding the alcohol, then return it to heat to flambé. Pouring from the bottle directly can cause the flame to travel up and explode the bottle.
Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Type of Cherries
While tart cherries are fine, sweet dark cherries (like Bing or Lambert) give the best flavor and color. If using sour cherries, you may need more sugar.
Mistake #3: Overcooking the Sauce
Once the sugar starts caramelizing, it can burn quickly. Keep a close eye on it and stir constantly. The sauce should be glossy and thick but not sticky.
Mistake #4: Skipping the Ice Cream
Sure, you can eat the cherry sauce on its own, but it’s not the same. The hot-and-cold contrast with ice cream is what makes this dessert sing.
Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll create a dessert worthy of royalty.
Storage and Reheating
You might be wondering—can you store leftovers? Absolutely.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftover cherry sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze it for up to 2 months, but the texture might change slightly after thawing.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a small saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of water or juice if it’s too thick.
- Microwave: Use short 20–30 second bursts, stirring in between.
Do not attempt to re-flambé the sauce once stored. It’s a one-time show.
Cherries Jubilee for Special Occasions
Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or a fancy dinner party, Cherries Jubilee adds elegance and excitement to any event.
A Romantic Dessert for Two
Dim the lights, light a candle, flambé your cherries, and spoon them over ice cream for two. You’ll win hearts, guaranteed.
How to Impress Guests
This dish screams drama and sophistication. When you flambé the sauce tableside, it becomes an experience, not just a dessert. Bonus: it makes you look like a total pro—even if it’s your first time.
Make it your signature party trick.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated)
Here’s a rough breakdown for one serving (based on 4 servings total, including ice cream):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Sugar | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Alcohol | ~3g |
Keep in mind, values will vary depending on the ingredients used, especially the ice cream and liqueur.
FAQs about Cherries Jubilee Recipe
1. Can I use frozen cherries for Cherries Jubilee?
Yes! Just make sure they’re fully thawed and drained to avoid watering down your sauce. Frozen dark sweet cherries work best.
2. What can I use instead of Kirsch or brandy?
Cherry juice or grape juice works well if you’re skipping alcohol. For a boozy substitute, try rum, bourbon, or triple sec.
3. Is it safe to flambé at home?
Absolutely—if you follow safety guidelines. Remove the pan from heat before adding alcohol, keep flammable objects away, and have a lid nearby to smother the flame.
4. How long does the whole process take?
About 15–20 minutes from prep to plate. It’s quick, easy, and the payoff is huge.
5. Can I make Cherries Jubilee ahead of time?
You can make the cherry sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently and serve over fresh ice cream when ready.
Final Thoughts
Cherries Jubilee is one of those rare recipes that combines taste, theater, and tradition in one flamingly fabulous package. It’s bold yet easy, sophisticated yet comforting. And let’s be honest—how many desserts do you know that come with their own fire show?
Whether you’re impressing dinner guests, spoiling your partner, or just treating yourself (because why not?), this dessert delivers every time. Don’t be intimidated by the flambé—it’s safer and easier than it sounds, and the results are more than worth it.
Give it a try. You might just find yourself making it again and again.
