Brandied Cherries

Cherries are addictive fresh and thank goodness, they also freeze well. Or, for consenting adults, they are great brandied.
Ingredients: 
5 lbs./1 1/2kg dark, sweet cherries
2 cups/250 mL sugar
1 cup/125mL water
1/4 cup/60mL  lemon juice
2 cups/250mL  brandy

Cherries are addictive fresh and thank goodness, they also freeze well. Or, for consenting adults, they are great brandied.

Wash and dry the cherries. Remove the stems.

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, water and lemon juice and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and add cherries. Cook for 5 minutes.

Remove from heat, add brandy and stir to mix well.

Ladle mixture into clean glass jars. Close lids. Allow to cool then store in refrigerator for at least 3 weeks before using.