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A maraschino cherry is a sweet, preserved cherry, often large and bright red. The name originates from the Italian word "marasca," referring to a specific type of bitter wild cherry native to Dalmatia.12

Historically, maraschino liqueur was distilled from the fermented juice of these marasca cherries. Today, the term "maraschino" is most commonly associated with the preserved cherries themselves, which are typically sweetened and colored, and frequently used as a garnish in cocktails and desserts.1

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  1. maraschino
  2. marasca

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