Indulge in the decadence of Black Forest Macaroon Conserve, a luscious spread that marries the bold flavors of sweet cherries, rich cocoa, and tropical shredded coconut. This stunning preserve delivers the iconic essence of a Black Forest dessert in every spoonful, enhanced by a hint of almond and vanilla for added richness. Perfectly textured with a jam-like consistency, this conserve is an irresistible addition to your breakfast table, elevate pancakes, toast, or yogurt, or even serve as a sophisticated topping for desserts. With simple preparation and optional pectin for customizable thickness, this recipe is as practical as it is indulgent. Whether youβre preserving the seasonβs fresh cherries or using frozen ones, this conserve is destined to become your go-to treat for both everyday indulgence and special occasions.
Prepare the cherries by washing and pitting them if using fresh cherries. If using frozen, thaw them before starting.
In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to incorporate the sugar with the cherries.
Place the pot over medium heat and allow the mixture to heat up, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely and the cherries release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
Mash the cherries slightly with a potato masher or the back of a spoon to release more of their natural juices and create a jam-like consistency. For a smoother conserve, use an immersion blender to partially puree the mixture, leaving some chunks for texture.
Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder until fully incorporated. This gives the conserve its rich, chocolatey flavor.
Add the unsweetened shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the conserve.
Allow the mixture to simmer over low heat for 30-35 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. The conserve will thicken as it cooks.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, sprinkle in the pectin toward the end of cooking and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes after adding the pectin.
Remove the pot from heat and let the conserve cool slightly. Taste and adjust sweetness or almond extract if desired.
Transfer the conserve into sterilized jars while still warm, leaving about 1/4-inch of headspace. Seal the jars tightly and allow them to cool completely before storing.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or process in a water bath for long-term storage (follow standard canning procedures for this step).
Calories |
1073 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 69.6 g | 89% | |
| Saturated Fat | 59.6 g | 298% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 44 mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 124.8 g | 45% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 39.1 g | 140% | |
| Total Sugars | 73.3 g | ||
| Protein | 18.6 g | 37% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 128 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 9.5 mg | 53% | |
| Potassium | 2160 mg | 46% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.