Maraschino Cherries

Ingredients:
4 1/2 pounds pitted red cherries
4 1/2 pounds white sugar
3 cups water
1 lemon, juice only
1 ounce Almond extract
1 ounce red food colouring

Brine:
2 quarts water
2 tblsp Salt
1 tsp Alum

Soak pitted cherries overnight in heated brine.


The next morning, drain cherries. Rinse in cold water.


Combine cherries, water, sugar, lemon juice, and red colouring.


Heat to boiling point.


Let stand 24 hours.


Again boil juices, pour over cherries and let stand 24 hours


Bring to boil again. Add Almond extract and cherries.


Pack in hot sterilized jars and seal.