Sizzling Cherries Jubilee Recipe: Sweet, Fiery, and Fabulous

Sweet summer memories flood back with this classic cherries jubilee that dances between nostalgic elegance and modern culinary charm.

Ripe, ruby-red fruits sparkle with a luxurious glaze that promises delectable excitement.

Chefs have celebrated this dessert’s dramatic presentation for decades, turning simple ingredients into a spectacular finale.

Flames will leap from your pan, creating a theatrical moment that captivates dinner guests.

Rich brandy and vibrant cherries combine in a harmonious blend of flavors that feels both sophisticated and playful.

Mastering this recipe lets you channel inner culinary magic, transforming ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dessert experience.

One bite promises to transport you to a world of delightful indulgence.

Great Pairings For Nigella Cherries Jubilee

• Pair Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Complement the warm, spiced cherry sauce with a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream that balances the rich, boozy flavors.
• Splash Aged Port Wine: Select a vintage port with deep berry notes that echoes the cherry's sweetness and matches the dessert's elegant complexity.
• Serve Almond Shortbread Cookies: Add crisp, buttery almond cookies on the side to provide a delightful textural contrast and nutty undertone to the jubilee.
• Match Dark Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle high-quality dark chocolate shavings over the dessert to enhance the brandy's depth and cherries' intense fruity profile.

Storing Nigella Cherries Jubilee The Right Way

• Store leftover Cherries Jubilee in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odor absorption from other foods.
• Transfer cooled sauce to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Label with date and contents.
• Gently warm sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of brandy or water to restore moisture if needed.
• Place sauce in microwave-safe dish. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming and prevent burning.

FAQ Section For Nigella Cherries Jubilee

• What are the key ingredients for Cherries Jubilee?

The key ingredients include fresh cherries, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, brandy, and butter.

• Is Cherries Jubilee a complicated dessert to make?

Not at all! It’s a relatively simple recipe that takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and requires basic cooking skills.

• Why do you set the brandy on fire?

Flambéing the brandy is a classic technique that burns off the alcohol, creates a dramatic presentation, and enhances the flavor of the dessert.

• What type of cherries work best for this recipe?

Sweet fresh cherries like Bing or Rainier are ideal, but you can also use frozen cherries if fresh are not available.

Why Nigella Cherries Jubilee Is A Sweet Showstopper

• Wow the Crowd: Impress dinner guests with this dramatic flambe dessert that creates instant culinary theater and conversation.
• Versatile Serving Delight: Perfect for topping vanilla ice cream, pound cake, or enjoying as a standalone elegant dessert that works for fancy dinner parties or intimate gatherings.
• Quick Gourmet Experience: Master a classic French-inspired dessert with minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking steps that make you feel like a professional chef in minutes.
• Simple Ingredient Magic: Transforms everyday cherries into a luxurious sauce using common pantry staples, making it accessible for home cooks wanting to elevate their dessert game.

Ingredients For Nigella Cherries Jubilee

• Cherries: Sweet and juicy stone fruits that create the base of this classic dessert sauce.

• Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a thick, glossy sauce.
• Vanilla, Cinnamon: Add warm, aromatic depth to the cherry mixture.
• Lemon Juice: Balances sweetness and adds a bright, tangy note.

• Brandy: Adds rich, complex flavor and creates a dramatic flambé effect.
• Butter: Provides a smooth, rich finish and helps thicken the sauce.

How To Make Nigella Cherries Jubilee Easily

Step 1: Prep the Delightful Cherry Base

In a skillet, toss together fresh or frozen cherries, granulated sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Mix the ingredients gently to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.

Step 2: Simmer and Develop Flavors

Place the skillet over medium heat and let the cherry mixture gently simmer. Allow the ingredients to bubble and meld together, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until the cherries start to soften and release their natural juices.

Step 3: Introduce the Brandy Magic

Pour in the brandy, letting it warm for about 30 seconds. The alcohol will start to release its aromatic qualities and blend with the cherry mixture.

Step 4: Create the Dramatic Flame Show

Carefully ignite the brandy using a long match or kitchen lighter. Watch as the flames dance and then naturally subside, creating a spectacular culinary moment and burning off the intense alcohol.

Step 5: Finish with Silky Butter

Reduce the heat to low and swirl in cold butter. Stir continuously until the butter melts completely, creating a glossy and luxurious sauce. Continue simmering to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and let the Cherries Jubilee rest for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to further develop its consistency and cool slightly. Serve warm over vanilla ice cream or pound cake for a decadent dessert experience.

Tips For Perfecting Nigella Cherries Jubilee

• Fruit Selection Matters: Choose ripe, sweet cherries like Bing or Rainier for the best flavor and texture in your dessert.
• Control Flame Safely: Use a long match or lighter when igniting brandy to prevent burns and ensure even flambé effect.
• Adjust Sweetness Wisely: Taste cherries first and reduce sugar if they're naturally sweet to prevent an overly sugary sauce.
• Prevent Burning: Stir frequently during simmering to distribute heat evenly and avoid scorching the delicate cherry mixture.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy Cherries Jubilee warm over vanilla ice cream for the most delightful dessert experience and optimal sauce consistency.

Creative Takes On Nigella Cherries Jubilee

• Tropical Cherry Fusion: Replace brandy with rum and add diced pineapple for a Caribbean-inspired version.
• Spiced Berry Alternative: Swap cherries with mixed berries and add ground cardamom for a warm, complex flavor profile.
• Diabetic-Friendly Option: Use sugar substitute like stevia, reduce liquid, and serve over Greek yogurt for a lower-carb dessert.
• Alcohol-Free Celebration: Substitute brandy with orange juice and apple cider to maintain depth while keeping it non-alcoholic.

Cherries Jubilee Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 34.5 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Sweet cherry jubilee brings French culinary magic to dessert lovers, creating a spectacular flame-kissed treat that dances with brandy and vanilla. Rich, elegant flavors combine expertly, promising an unforgettable finale you’ll savor with pure delight.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Primary Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1/4 cup sugar

Liquids and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1/4 cup brandy (60 milliliters)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spices and Additional Ingredients:

• Pinch of cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons butter (28 grams)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a skillet, meld ripe cherries with granulated sugar, zesty lemon juice, fragrant vanilla, and warm cinnamon, creating a vibrant fruit base.
2. Gently simmer the cherry mixture over medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to intertwine and cherries to soften.
3. Introduce brandy to the skillet, warming it briefly to release aromatic notes.
4. Execute a dramatic flame by carefully igniting the brandy, letting the alcohol burn off and infuse a subtle depth.
5. Once flames subside, reduce heat and incorporate butter, stirring until it melts completely and creates a luxurious, glossy texture.
6. Continue simmering for an additional 3-4 minutes, concentrating the sauce and developing a slightly thickened consistency.
7. Remove from heat and allow the jubilee to rest momentarily, letting the flavors harmonize before serving over vanilla ice cream or pound cake.

Notes

• Swap frozen cherries for fresh ones during off-season for consistent flavor and texture.
• Control sugar levels by using alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a healthier version.
• Select high-quality brandy to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dessert sauce.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when flambéing to ensure kitchen safety during the dramatic brandy ignition step.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 29.5 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Sugar: 27 g
• Sodium: 80 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg