1 (15 1/4-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
1 (16-ounce) can sliced peaches, drained
1 (17-ounce) can apricot halves, drained
1 (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained
1 1/4 cup sugar
1 1/4 cup brandy*
Brandied Fruit Starter should last indefinitely if handled properly. Use clean equipment and keep it covered.
Combine all ingredients in a clean, nonmetal bowl; stir gently. Cover and let stand at room temperature 3 weeks, stirring fruit twice a week. Serve fruit over ice cream or pound cake when desired, reserving at least 1 cup starter at all times.
To replenish starter, add 1 cup sugar and one of the fruits, pineapple chunks, peaches, apricot halves or maraschino cherries every 1 to 3 weeks, alternating fruits each time; stir gently. Cover and let stand at room temperature 3 days before using again.
Yield: 6 cups.
*Apricot or peach brandy may be substituted, if desired