Amarena cherries are dark wild cherries that grown in Bologna and Modena regions of Italy. These cherries exhibit an intense cherry flavor even though the name comes from the Italian word "amara" which means bitter. The bitterness is slight and when the cherries are preserved they are in a sweet syrup that masks any bitterness.
These beautiful cherries are a classic ingredient in cherry Gelato. You can also pour the syrup over ice cream (as shown) or use to top cakes and tarts. You can also use this cherry to replace the old traditional Maraschino cherry in your cocktail. For a decadent brunch serve the cherries over pancakes or waffles.
You can purchase cherries in specialty food stores including Whole Foods Markets (check in the cheese department). You can also purchase them online at Amazon: Amarena Toschi Italian Black Cherries