Costco Fabbri Wild Cherry Recipes: Indulge in Deliciousness After Scoring the Deal!
Costco shoppers, rejoice! The beloved Fabbri Wild Cherries deal is back, and if you were lucky enough to snag a jar (or two, or three!), you’re probably wondering what delectable creations you can whip up with these Italian delicacies. These aren’t your average maraschino cherries; Fabbri Wild Cherries are intensely flavorful, boasting a rich, slightly tart sweetness that elevates everything they touch. Forget sickly sweet cocktails – these cherries are destined for culinary greatness.
This article is your ultimate guide to making the most of your Costco Fabbri Wild Cherry haul. We’ll cover everything from simple snacking ideas to elaborate desserts, ensuring you’ll be inspired to use every last cherry (and every drop of that luscious syrup!). Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Fabbri Wild Cherry wonderland!
## What Makes Fabbri Wild Cherries So Special?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Fabbri Wild Cherries so special. These cherries, steeped in a rich syrup, offer a unique flavor profile that sets them apart:
* **Intense Cherry Flavor:** Unlike the often-artificial taste of maraschino cherries, Fabbri cherries deliver a genuine, robust cherry flavor.
* **Perfect Sweetness:** The syrup strikes a perfect balance, offering a sweetness that’s not cloying but rather enhances the natural tartness of the cherries.
* **Luxurious Texture:** The cherries are plump and juicy, with a satisfyingly firm texture.
* **Versatile Ingredient:** From cocktails to desserts, these cherries add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any dish.
* **The Syrup Itself!** Don’t underestimate the syrup! It’s liquid gold, perfect for flavoring drinks, drizzling over desserts, or adding a cherry kick to savory sauces.
## Simple & Delicious Ways to Enjoy Fabbri Wild Cherries
Sometimes, the simplest preparations are the most satisfying. Here are a few quick and easy ways to enjoy your Fabbri Wild Cherries:
* **Straight from the Jar:** Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to eat them straight from the jar! Indulge in the pure, unadulterated cherry goodness.
* **Elevated Ice Cream Sundae:** Transform your ordinary ice cream sundae into a gourmet delight. Top your favorite ice cream with Fabbri Wild Cherries and a generous drizzle of the syrup.
* **Yogurt Parfait Perfection:** Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and Fabbri Wild Cherries for a healthy and delicious breakfast or snack.
* **Cheese Board Enhancement:** Add a small bowl of Fabbri Wild Cherries to your cheese board for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. They pair particularly well with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
* **Cocktail Garnishes (Beyond the Ordinary):** Elevate your cocktails! Use Fabbri cherries as a garnish for Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, or even a simple gin and tonic. The syrup can also be used to sweeten and flavor your drinks.
## Recipes Featuring Fabbri Wild Cherries
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: recipes! These recipes showcase the versatility of Fabbri Wild Cherries, from breakfast to dessert and everything in between.
### 1. Fabbri Wild Cherry Clafoutis
Clafoutis is a classic French baked custard dessert, traditionally made with cherries. The Fabbri Wild Cherries add a layer of intense flavor and sweetness that takes this dessert to the next level.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 3 large eggs
* 1 1/2 cups whole milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
* 1 jar (230g) Fabbri Wild Cherries, drained (reserve the syrup!)
* Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter. You can also use a cast iron skillet for a rustic presentation.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. **Whisk Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry:** Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Arrange Cherries:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the drained Fabbri Wild Cherries evenly over the batter.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the clafoutis is golden brown and set in the center. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the clafoutis cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature. Drizzle with reserved Fabbri Wild Cherry syrup for extra flavor.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Almond Extract:** Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a complementary flavor to the cherries.
* **Lemon Zest:** Grate the zest of one lemon into the batter for a bright, citrusy note.
* **Nut Flour:** Replace 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a richer, nuttier flavor.
* **Serving Suggestions:** Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
### 2. Fabbri Wild Cherry and Chocolate Chunk Scones
These scones are a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea. The combination of tart cherries and rich chocolate is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 3/4 cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate chunks
* 1/2 cup Fabbri Wild Cherries, drained and roughly chopped
* 1 tablespoon milk, for brushing
* Turbinado sugar, for sprinkling (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Cut in Butter:** Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
5. **Add Wet to Dry:** Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Fold in Add-Ins:** Gently fold in the chopped chocolate chunks and chopped Fabbri Wild Cherries.
7. **Shape Scones:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a 1-inch thick disc. Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges or rounds.
8. **Arrange on Baking Sheet:** Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet.
9. **Brush with Milk and Sprinkle with Sugar:** Brush the tops of the scones with milk and sprinkle with turbinado sugar, if desired.
10. **Bake:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
11. **Cool and Serve:** Let the scones cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **White Chocolate:** Substitute white chocolate chunks for dark chocolate chunks.
* **Nuts:** Add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the dough.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough for a brighter flavor.
* **Make Ahead:** The dough can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
### 3. Fabbri Wild Cherry and Ricotta Crostini
This appetizer is a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The creamy ricotta cheese, tart cherries, and crunchy toasted bread make for a delightful combination.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 8 ounces ricotta cheese
* 1/4 cup honey
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 cup Fabbri Wild Cherries, drained and halved
* Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Toast Baguette Slices:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Let cool slightly.
2. **Prepare Ricotta Mixture:** In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. **Assemble Crostini:** Spread a generous amount of the ricotta mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
4. **Top with Cherries:** Top with halved Fabbri Wild Cherries.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Goat Cheese:** Substitute goat cheese for ricotta cheese for a tangier flavor.
* **Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle balsamic glaze over the crostini for a more complex flavor.
* **Prosciutto:** Add a small piece of prosciutto to each crostini for a salty contrast to the sweetness of the cherries.
* **Toasted Nuts:** Sprinkle toasted nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, over the crostini for added crunch.
### 4. Fabbri Wild Cherry Chocolate Bark
This is a simple yet impressive treat that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. The combination of dark chocolate and cherries is a classic for a reason!
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
* 1/2 cup Fabbri Wild Cherries, drained and roughly chopped
* 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, or walnuts), optional
* Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt Chocolate:** Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
2. **Spread Chocolate:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the parchment paper and spread it into an even layer, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. **Add Toppings:** Sprinkle the chopped Fabbri Wild Cherries and nuts (if using) over the melted chocolate.
4. **Sprinkle with Sea Salt:** Sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
5. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
6. **Break into Pieces:** Break the chocolate bark into pieces and serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **White Chocolate:** Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
* **Peppermint Extract:** Add 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for a festive holiday bark.
* **Dried Cranberries:** Add dried cranberries for a tart and chewy element.
* **Espresso Powder:** Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the melted chocolate for a mocha flavor.
### 5. Fabbri Wild Cherry Syrup Cocktails (and Mocktails!)
Don’t forget to use the glorious syrup! Here are a few ideas:
* **Cherry Old Fashioned:** Muddle a cherry or two with a sugar cube and bitters. Add bourbon, ice, and a splash of Fabbri cherry syrup. Garnish with a cherry.
* **Cherry Manhattan:** Use the syrup in place of simple syrup in your favorite Manhattan recipe.
* **Cherry Spritzer (Mocktail):** Mix Fabbri cherry syrup with sparkling water and a squeeze of lime. Garnish with a cherry and a mint sprig.
* **Cherry Iced Tea:** Add a tablespoon or two of the syrup to your iced tea for a refreshing twist.
* **Cherry Lemonade:** Similar to the Iced Tea, add to fresh lemonade for a sweet cherry kick. Adjust sugar to taste!
## Storing Your Fabbri Wild Cherries
Once opened, store your Fabbri Wild Cherries in the refrigerator. Make sure the cherries are submerged in the syrup to prevent them from drying out. They should last for several weeks, if not months, in the refrigerator.
## Beyond the Recipes: Creative Uses for Fabbri Wild Cherry Syrup
Think beyond the cherry! The syrup is an incredibly versatile ingredient. Here are some creative uses:
* **Pancake or Waffle Topping:** Drizzle over pancakes or waffles for a sweet and fruity breakfast.
* **Marinade for Pork or Chicken:** Add a tablespoon or two to your favorite marinade for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
* **Salad Dressing:** Whisk with olive oil, vinegar, and mustard for a unique salad dressing.
* **Ice Cream Sauce:** Warm the syrup slightly and drizzle over ice cream for a decadent dessert topping.
* **Flavoring for Oatmeal or Yogurt:** Stir into oatmeal or yogurt for a burst of cherry flavor.
* **Cake Soaking Syrup:** Use it to soak cake layers for added moisture and flavor.
## Conclusion: Cherish Your Cherries!
The return of the Costco Fabbri Wild Cherry deal is cause for celebration. These cherries are a true culinary treasure, offering endless possibilities for creating delicious and memorable dishes. From simple snacks to elaborate desserts, the only limit is your imagination. So, get creative, experiment with these recipes, and most importantly, enjoy the sweet and tart goodness of Fabbri Wild Cherries! Happy cooking (and baking)!