20 Fresh Cherry Recipes You Must Try This Week
Love fresh cherries but not sure what to do with them?
They’re perfect for snacking, but there’s so much more you can create!
I’m sharing easy recipes that make fresh cherries the star of the show, turning them into delicious dishes you’ll crave.
Why You’ll Love These Recipes:
- Fresh & Flavorful: Celebrate the sweet-tart flavor of cherries.
- Simple & Versatile: Recipes for any skill level and occasion.
- Waste-Not Solution: Use up those cherries before they go bad.
- Summertime Fun: Enjoy your favorite summer fruit in delicious ways.
20 Delicious Sweet Cherry Recipes You”ll Wish You Knew Sooner
1. Cherry Clafoutis
This French dessert might sound fancy, but it’s super easy to make! I love the way the sweet custard batter bakes right around the juicy cherries. It’s like a warm, comforting cherry hug in every bite.
- Pros: Simple & elegant, custardy goodness, cherries are the star, warm & comforting.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Try other stone fruits like peaches or plums if cherries aren’t in season.
- Cooking Tip: Use a shallow baking dish for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Customization Ideas: Add a sprinkle of almond flour to the batter, or a dusting of powdered sugar on top.
- Indian Touch: Substitute the milk with a creamy coconut milk for a tropical twist.
2. Rustic Cherry Galette
This free-form tart is the perfect way to show off those gorgeous cherries. I love the buttery, flaky crust and the sweet-tart cherry filling. Plus, it looks so impressive but is super easy to make.
- Pros: Rustic charm, buttery crust, bursting with cherries, easy to assemble.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use store-bought pie dough for a shortcut.
- Cooking Tip: Don’t overwork the dough to keep it tender and flaky.
- Customization Ideas: Brush the crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar, or add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Indian Touch: Flavor the dough with a pinch of cardamom and a hint of ground ginger.
3. Cherry Crisp with Almond Crumble
This dessert is all about amazing textures! I love the combination of juicy cherries, crunchy almond topping, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a classic summer dessert for a reason.
- Pros: Flavor & texture combo, warm & comforting, perfect with ice cream, easy to make.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Swap the almonds for pecans or walnuts, or try oats in your crumble.
- Cooking Tip: Bake until the cherry juices are thick and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Customization Ideas: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the crumble, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top.
- Indian Touch: Try adding chopped pistachios to the crumble, and serve with a scoop of mango ice cream.
4. Individual Cherry Cheesecakes
These mini cheesecakes are so cute and delicious! I love the creamy cherry cheesecake filling and the buttery graham cracker crust. They look fancy but are easy to make and perfect for individual servings.
- Pros: Elegant & portioned, creamy filling, easy to make, customizable toppings.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use store-bought graham cracker crusts for a shortcut.
- Cooking Tip: Chill the cheesecakes well for the perfect texture before serving.
- Customization Ideas: Top with whipped cream, fresh cherries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- Indian Touch: Flavor the filling with a touch of rose water and cardamom.
5. No-Churn Cherry Swirl Ice Cream
This ice cream is so creamy and delicious, and you don’t even need an ice cream machine! I love the sweet vanilla base swirled with a vibrant cherry sauce. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for those hot summer days.
- Pros: No-churn ease, creamy texture, customizable swirl, refreshing treat.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Try different flavors of ice cream or a different fruit swirl.
- Cooking Tip: Freeze the ice cream mixture until solid for the best texture.
- Customization Ideas: Add chopped cherries to the ice cream, or swirl in some chocolate sauce.
- Indian Touch: Flavor the vanilla base with saffron and cardamom, and swirl in a mango puree.
6. Cherry Hand Pies
These hand pies are like portable cherry deliciousness! I love the flaky pastry crust filled with a sweet and juicy cherry filling. They’re perfect for picnics, packed lunches, or a sweet treat on the go.
- Pros: Portable & fun, flaky crust, juicy cherry filling, kid-friendly.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use store-bought pie dough for super-easy assembly.
- Cooking Tip: Don’t overfill the hand pies, and crimp the edges well to prevent leaks.
- Customization Ideas: Brush the crust with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar, or drizzle with melted glaze.
- Indian Touch: Flavor the filling with a pinch of cinnamon and ground cardamom, and serve with a scoop of ice cream.
7. Cherry Almond Bread
This bread is so moist and flavorful, and the cherries add a sweet-tart burst in each bite. I love the crunchy almonds and the hint of almond extract. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or anytime you’re craving a sweet treat.
- Pros: Moist & flavorful, perfect for snacking, easy to make, sweet cherry bursts.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Try different nuts or other dried fruits.
- Cooking Tip: Don’t overmix the batter, fold in the cherries gently at the end.
- Customization Ideas: Add a cream cheese swirl, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top.
- Indian Touch: Use pistachio nuts and add a drizzle of rose syrup on top.
8. Cherry Cobbler with Buttermilk Biscuits
This classic dessert is pure comfort food! I love the warm, bubbly cherry filling and the fluffy biscuits on top. It’s so easy to make and perfect for using up extra cherries during the season.
- Pros: Comforting & classic, juicy filling, fluffy biscuits, easy to assemble.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use frozen cherries if fresh is unavailable.
- Cooking Tip: Bake until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Customization Ideas: Top with a scoop of ice cream, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Indian Touch: Add a pinch of ground cardamom to the biscuit dough and top with a dollop of sweetened yogurt.
9. Dark Chocolate Cherry Brownies
These brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream! I love the rich, fudgy brownie batter studded with juicy cherries. The combination of dark chocolate and sweet-tart cherries is absolutely irresistible.
- Pros: Fudgy & decadent, sweet-tart balance, chocolate-cherry combo, crowd-pleaser.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate for a sweeter version.
- Cooking Tip: Don’t overbake the brownies for the ultimate fudgy texture.
- Customization Ideas: Swirl in some cream cheese, or add a layer of chopped nuts.
- Indian Touch: Add a pinch of chili powder to the brownie batter for a spicy kick, and sprinkle with chopped pistachios.
10. Cherry Buckle Coffee Cake
This coffee cake is moist, tender, and bursting with fresh cherry flavor. I love the buttery crumb topping and the way the cherries get jammy and delicious as it bakes. It’s a perfect way to start the day or to enjoy with afternoon tea.
- Pros: Buttery & comforting, bursting with cherries, easy to make, perfect for breakfast or snack.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use other berries if cherries are out of season.
- Cooking Tip: Don’t overmix the batter for a tender crumb, and use a toothpick to check for doneness.
- Customization Ideas: Add chopped nuts to the crumb topping, or a drizzle of vanilla glaze.
- Indian Touch: Use coconut oil instead of butter, and add dried mango bits to the crumb topping.
11. Cherry and Goat Cheese Bruschetta
The combination of flavors in this appetizer is absolutely delicious! I love the way the sweet cherries pair with the creamy, tangy goat cheese and toasty bread. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Pros: Elegant & easy appetizer, sweet & tangy balance, fresh flavors, quick to assemble.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use ricotta or cream cheese instead of goat cheese.
- Cooking Tip: Toast the bread until golden brown and slightly crisp for the best texture.
- Customization Ideas: Add fresh basil, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or chopped toasted nuts.
- Indian Touch: Swap goat cheese with paneer, and add a sprinkle of chaat masala and chopped cilantro.
12. Balsamic Cherry Glazed Chicken
This dish is an amazing balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The juicy chicken is coated in a sticky balsamic cherry glaze that’s both rich and vibrant. It’s great served with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes.
- Pros: Flavorful & easy, restaurant-worthy dish, sweet-tart sauce, pairs well with sides.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use pork tenderloin or even salmon instead of chicken.
- Cooking Tip: Cook chicken slowly for juicy results, and thicken the glaze over medium heat.
- Customization Ideas: Add shallots or garlic to the glaze, or serve with a dollop of creamy goat cheese.
- Indian Touch: Combine the balsamic with tamarind paste, a pinch of garam masala, and fresh ginger.
13. Fresh Cherry Salsa
This salsa is a fun twist on a classic! I love the combination of sweet cherries, tangy lime juice, and fresh cilantro. It’s perfect for scooping up with tortilla chips or topping grilled chicken or fish.
- Pros: Sweet & savory, refreshing flavors, easy to make, versatile topping.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Add diced jalapeno for a spicy kick, or try other herbs like mint.
- Cooking Tip: Chop the ingredients into small pieces for easy scooping.
- Customization Ideas: Add diced avocado, chopped bell peppers, or black beans.
- Indian Touch: Omit cilantro, and add chopped cucumber, red onion, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
14. Warm Cherry and Brie Salad
This salad is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy. I love the warm, gooey brie cheese paired with the sweet cherries, crunchy pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s elegant enough for a special occasion but easy enough to make on a weeknight.
- Pros: Elegant & flavorful, warm & comforting, sweet-savory balance, easy to assemble.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use a different cheese like Camembert, or swap pecans with walnuts.
- Cooking Tip: Warm the brie just until it’s soft, not fully melted, for the best texture.
- Customization Ideas: Toss in baby spinach or arugula, or drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Indian Touch: Use paneer instead of brie, and add a sprinkle of toasted cumin seeds and a drizzle of mint chutney.
15. Cherry Chutney
This chutney is a burst of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The cherries pair beautifully with warm spices and a touch of vinegar. It’s a delicious condiment to serve with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or just with crackers and cheese.
- Pros: Flavorful condiment, sweet-spicy-tangy balance, versatile & easy, make-ahead option.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Adjust the spiciness to your liking, or try different vinegars.
- Cooking Tip: Cook the chutney slowly over low heat to soften the cherries and develop the flavors.
- Customization Ideas: Add chopped dried apricots, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or fresh ginger.
- Indian Touch: Include dried mango, a pinch of garam masala, and a squeeze of lime juice.
16. Cherry Limeade
This drink is so refreshing and easy to make! I love the tart lime juice combined with the sweet cherry flavor. It’s the perfect summer drink for sipping by the pool or at a picnic.
- Pros: Refreshing & thirst-quenching, easy to make, tart-sweet combo, kid-friendly.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use lemon instead of lime, or try different flavored seltzer waters.
- Cooking Tip: Muddle the cherries to release their juices and maximize flavor.
- Customization Ideas: Add sprigs of mint, or try a splash of simple syrup for added sweetness.
- Indian Touch: Add a pinch of black salt (kala namak), a touch of ginger and muddled mint leaves for a flavorful twist.
17. Cherry Long Island Iced Tea
This iced tea has a delicious twist with the addition of sweet cherry flavor. I love how light and refreshing it is, perfect for a hot summer day. It’s easy to make a big pitcher for a crowd.
- Pros: Refreshing & thirst-quenching, easy to make, customizable flavors, summery drink.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use different types of tea or add other herbs like mint.
- Cooking Tip: Brew the tea strong and chill thoroughly for the best flavor.
- Customization Ideas: Add fresh cherries or a squeeze of lemon, or a sprig of fresh herbs.
- Indian Touch: Use masala chai, add a squeeze of lime, and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
18. Sparkling Cherry Rosé Sangria
This shrub is a fun and sophisticated drink. The tart cherry flavor balances perfectly with the sweetness of the simple syrup and the bubbly soda. It’s fantastic as a cocktail or a refreshing mocktail.
- Pros: Sophisticated & unique, customizable sweetness, make-ahead option, fun flavor.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use different fruit flavors or try different types of vinegar.
- Cooking Tip: Let the shrub infuse for at least a few days for the best flavor.
- Customization Ideas: Add a splash of gin or vodka (for cocktails), or garnish with fresh cherries and herbs.
- Indian Touch: Infuse the shrub with a pinch of cardamom and a touch of rose water.
19. Cherry Compote (perfect for yogurt or pancakes)
This compote is a versatile and delicious addition to so many dishes. I love the sweet, concentrated cherry flavor. It’s amazing on top of yogurt, pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream.
- Pros: Versatile topping, concentrated cherry flavor, easy to make, elevates simple dishes.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Add a squeeze of lemon, or a pinch of ground cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Cooking Tip: Cook the compote slowly for softer cherries and a thicker consistency.
- Customization Ideas: Stir in chopped nuts, a drizzle of honey, or a splash of vanilla extract.
- Indian Touch: Add a pinch of saffron and chopped pistachios for a decadent topping.
20. Homemade Cherry Jam
This jam is a sweet and delicious way to preserve the flavor of fresh cherries. I love spreading it on toast, and biscuits, or using it as a filling for pastries. It’s a lovely homemade gift, too!
- Pros: Homemade goodness, sweet cherry flavor, versatile use, long shelf-life.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Add a squeeze of lemon or a touch of almond extract for flavor.
- Cooking Tip: Follow safe canning procedures to preserve the jam for long-term storage.
- Customization Ideas: Stir in chopped nuts, a swirl of chocolate, or a pinch of spice.
- Indian Touch: Add a pinch of garam masala and a few dried mango pieces to the jam.
Conclusion
There you have it – a whole collection of amazing cherry recipes to try! From sweet treats to savory surprises and refreshing drinks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you love these ideas, be sure to save this article to try all these tasty recipes during cherry season.
Know a fellow cherry lover? Share this article with them and spread the deliciousness!
Finally, let me know – which of these cherry recipes are you the MOST excited to make?
Do you have a favorite way to use fresh cherries that I didn’t mention? Let’s talk in the comments!