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Glass jar of cherry compote, showing colourful red cherry halves.
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5 from 10 votes

Easy 2-Ingredient Cherry Compote

Perfect on pancakes, waffles, oatmeal or to top ice cream, this 2-ingredient cherry compote comes together in minutes and is the perfect way to use those delicious summer fruits!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, british, gluten-free, healthy, Oil-free
Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 33kcal
Author: Elizabeth Emery

Ingredients

  • 1 lb cherries
  • 2 tablespoon sugar (any works, but I like brown sugar or coconut sugar)

Optional add-ins

  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (adds a delicious flavour)
  • 1 teaspoon kirsch or other fruit liqueur

Instructions

  • Cut 1lb cherries in half and remove pits (using a cherry pitter tool or your hands) and stems.
  • Add cherries to a medium pot with 2 tablespoon sugar, cover and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat until cherries are gently but enthusiastically bubbling, and cook for 12-14 minutes - stirring occasionally - until broken down.
  • Remove from heat. If using, stir in ½ teaspoon almond extract and/or 1 teaspoon kirsch.
  • Allow to cool before pouring into a glass jar with a lid. Store in fridge until needed (compote will thicken slightly as it cools).

Notes

Cherries - Fresh cherries work best but frozen can be used, your compote might just have more cherry juice.
Sugar - You can also use liquid sweeteners such as maple syrup.
Kirsch - If you can't find kirsch, fruit liqueur or brandy will work. In a pinch, you can even use whisky (although it does give a distinct flavour).
For a thicker compote - Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and it will thicken the compote as it cooks.
Storage - Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 1 week. Freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 33kcal | Carbohydrates: 3.6g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 10g | Potassium: 38mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 2.3g | Calcium: 2mg