If you love indulging in luscious fruit desserts, you are absolutely going to adore this Cherries in Spiced Port Syrup Recipe. It’s a sensational way to take fresh cherries and elevate them with a warm, fragrant port syrup infused with star anise, cinnamon, and vanilla. The result is a glossy, rich treat that’s simultaneously bright, sweet, and slightly spiced, making these cherries perfect for uplifting any dessert or even enjoying on their own. This recipe feels like a special secret you’ll want to share with everyone you know, because those cherries soaked in the vibrant flavors of spiced port become completely irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl in the center filled with bright red cherries that are pitted, smooth, and shiny. Above it is a wooden cutting board with more cherries, some pitted and others whole, along with a cherry pitter. To the left, a small white bowl holds fresh whole cherries with stems. Near the top center, there's a clear glass measuring cup filled with a golden liquid, while to the right, a gray bowl contains white sugar with a gold spoon resting on top. In the upper right corner, a large white pot has a few orange peels inside. The background is a white marble surface with gray veins running through it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cherries in Spiced Port Syrup Recipe lies in its simplicity and the careful balance of each ingredient. Every element serves a purpose, bringing color, sweetness, or warmth to the final dish, creating something truly unforgettable.

700 gms fresh Cherry Time cherries, stalks removed and pitted: The star of the show, ripe and juicy cherries create the perfect base bursting with natural sweetness.
2 thick strips of orange zest: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma that cuts through the richness of the port.
The juice of 1 orange: Provides fresh acidity and balances the syrup’s flavors beautifully.
¾ cup (155 gms) granulated white sugar: Sweetens the syrup, helping to create that glossy, syrupy consistency you want.
1 cup (250 ml) good-quality port: The heart of the syrup, delivering warm, complex notes with its fruity depth.
2 star anise pods: Infuse the syrup with a delicate licorice flavor that’s truly captivating.
1 cinnamon stick: Adds cozy spice that complements the cherries perfectly.
1 vanilla bean, split and seeds removed (or 1 tsp vanilla extract): Brings in subtle floral sweetness and rounds out the syrup’s profile.

How to Make Cherries in Spiced Port Syrup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Cherries

Start by carefully removing the stalks and pits from your fresh cherries. Taking this step ensures every bite is enjoyable without any surprises and that your cherries stay intact throughout the cooking process. Set these pitted cherries aside while you prepare the syrup.

Step 2: Create the Flavored Port Syrup

In a medium-sized pot, combine the fresh orange juice and top it up with water until you reach 1 cup (250 ml) of liquid. Add the sugar, port, star anise pods, orange zest strips, cinnamon stick, and the split vanilla bean. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring to fully dissolve the sugar. This combination simmers together, infusing the liquid with layers of warm, inviting flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Cherries

Gently add the cherries into the boiling syrup and cook for exactly 3 and a half minutes. This brief cooking time softens the cherries just right without losing their structure or bite. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cherries to sterilized jars, ensuring they are evenly distributed and packed.

Step 4: Thicken the Syrup and Finish

Allow the port syrup to simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, giving it time to thicken and concentrate those gorgeous flavors. If you opted for vanilla extract instead of the bean, stir it in now to preserve its aroma. Once thickened, remove the star anise, cinnamon, and orange zest strips, then pour the syrup over the cherries in the jars. Seal the jars tightly and turn them upside down for a few minutes while cooling to create a nice seal. Then, store in the fridge and enjoy whenever you desire.

How to Serve Cherries in Spiced Port Syrup Recipe

The image shows a white marbled surface with two clear glass jars in the center filled with dark red cherries and juice, one jar is round and the other is square. Around the jars, several loose cherries with stems are scattered. Behind the jars, to the right, there is a wooden cutting board with a small white bowl holding star-shaped brown spices, and a white vintage kitchen scale with bright red cherries piled on its tray. To the left, there is a white bowl full of red cherries and a gray cloth. The background is soft-focused dark gray. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle these cherries with a little fresh mint or a twist of orange zest for a burst of freshness and visual appeal. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can also add delightful texture contrasts that elevate your presentation.

Side Dishes

These spiced cherries pair perfectly with creamy desserts like vanilla ice cream, panna cotta, or cheesecake. They can also be served alongside rich chocolate cakes or even dolloped over yogurt for a cozy breakfast treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the cherries between slices of pound cake or folding them into a fresh batch of crepes. For a festive presentation, spoon the cherries and syrup over a cheese board to complement sharp cheeses and crunchy crackers. Their vibrant color and complex flavor make them an unexpected star wherever they appear.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once chilled, keep leftover cherries covered in their syrup stored in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, making them a handy and delicious addition to desserts or breakfasts at any time.

Freezing

If you want to save the cherries for longer, freeze them in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars without the vanilla pod or extract. When frozen properly, the cherries and syrup will keep their delicious taste for up to three months.

Reheating

Gently warm the cherries and syrup on the stovetop or in the microwave just until heated through. Avoid boiling after refrigeration or thawing to keep the cherries from becoming too soft. Warmed, they’re perfect spooned over desserts or breakfast dishes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cherries can work well if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw and drain them before cooking, but be gentle during cooking to maintain their texture.

What if I don’t have port wine? Can I substitute it?

Port wine’s unique flavor is key, but you can substitute with a sweet red wine or a fortified wine like Madeira for a similar depth, though the result will vary slightly.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the syrup?

You can replace the port with grape juice or a rich non-alcoholic wine alternative. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to mimic complexity, but the flavor won’t be exactly the same.

How long does this recipe keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in sterilized jars and refrigerated, these cherries will keep deliciously for up to two weeks.

Can I use the vanilla extract instead of a vanilla bean?

Absolutely! If you don’t have vanilla beans, just add a teaspoon of vanilla extract at the end of cooking the syrup for that lovely vanilla warmth.

Final Thoughts

This Cherries in Spiced Port Syrup Recipe is one of those special dishes that transforms simple fruit into a decadent delight you’ll reach for again and again. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on quiet evenings, offering a beautiful combination of seasonal freshness and warming spices. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy cherries all year round.

Cherries in Spiced Port Syrup Recipe