Cherry Vanilla Compote

Fresh cherries simmered with vanilla create a luscious compote that’s not too sweet. It’s perfect over ice cream, cheesecake or spooned into yogurt. A splash of almond extract enhances the cherry flavor.

Ingredients

• 6 cups pitted sweet cherries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Combine cherries, sugar, water and the vanilla bean and seeds in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until cherries soften, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in almond extract and lemon juice. Continue simmering until the liquid slightly thickens.
4. Remove the vanilla bean. Ladle compote into warm, sterilized jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.
5. Process in a boiling-water bath for 10 minutes or refrigerate for immediate use. The compote will thicken as it cools.

This cherry compote keeps for several weeks in the fridge and is a quick way to elevate desserts and breakfasts. Try it swirled into oatmeal or spooned over French toast.