15 Delightful Fresh Cherry Recipes

Introduction

Cherries, with their vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor, are a versatile fruit that can elevate a wide range of dishes. From desserts and salads to main courses and beverages, fresh cherries add a delightful twist to your culinary creations. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a holiday feast, or simply looking to enjoy cherries at their peak, these 15 fresh cherry recipes will inspire you to make the most of this delicious fruit.

1. Cherry Pie

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
4. Pour the cherry mixture into the crust.
5. Cover with the top crust, crimp edges, and cut slits for steam.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
7. Cool before serving.

FAQ: What makes cherry pie a classic dessert? Cherry pie is a timeless favorite because of its sweet, juicy filling encased in a flaky, buttery crust, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

2. Cherry Clafoutis

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a baking dish and arrange cherries in the bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour batter over cherries.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and set.
6. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar.

FAQ: What is a clafoutis? Clafoutis is a French dessert featuring a flan-like batter baked with fruit, typically cherries, resulting in a soft and custardy texture.

3. Cherry Salsa

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine cherries, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
2. Add lime juice and salt, and mix well.
3. Let sit for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled meats.

FAQ: How can I use cherry salsa? Cherry salsa can be enjoyed with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled meats, or added to tacos for a fresh and fruity twist.

4. Cherry Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 banana
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 tbsp honey
• Ice cubes

Preparation Steps:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

FAQ: What are the benefits of a cherry smoothie? Cherry smoothies are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness, making them a nutritious and refreshing beverage.

5. Cherry BBQ Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. In a saucepan, combine all ingredients.
2. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes until thickened.
3. Use an immersion blender to smooth the sauce.
4. Serve with grilled meats.

FAQ: What dishes pair well with cherry BBQ sauce? Cherry BBQ sauce complements grilled meats like chicken, pork, and ribs, adding a sweet and tangy flavor profile.

6. Cherry Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Balsamic vinaigrette

Preparation Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine greens, cherries, feta, and almonds.
2. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette.
3. Toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately.

FAQ: How can I enhance a cherry salad? Enhance a cherry salad by adding ingredients like goat cheese, candied pecans, or grilled chicken for added flavor and texture.

7. Cherry Sorbet

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Preparation Steps:

1. In a blender, puree cherries until smooth.
2. In a saucepan, dissolve sugar in water over low heat.
3. Combine cherry puree with sugar syrup and lemon juice.
4. Chill mixture in the refrigerator.
5. Freeze in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.

FAQ: Can I make cherry sorbet without an ice cream maker? Yes, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow dish, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches a sorbet-like consistency.

8. Cherry Chutney

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Salt to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. In a saucepan, combine all ingredients.
2. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes until thickened.
3. Cool and store in jars.
4. Serve with cheese or roasted meats.

FAQ: What is cherry chutney used for? Cherry chutney is a versatile condiment that pairs well with cheeses, roasted meats, and sandwiches, adding a sweet and tangy flavor.

9. Cherry Parfait

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup granola
• Honey for drizzling

Preparation Steps:

1. In serving glasses, layer yogurt, cherries, and granola.
2. Drizzle with honey.
3. Repeat layers.
4. Serve immediately.

FAQ: How can I customize a cherry parfait? Customize a cherry parfait by adding ingredients like nuts, coconut flakes, or dark chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

10. Cherry Glazed Salmon

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine cherries, balsamic vinegar, and honey.
3. Simmer until cherries are soft and the mixture is thickened.
4. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
5. Place salmon on a baking sheet and brush with cherry glaze.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until salmon is cooked through.
7. Serve with extra cherry glaze.

FAQ: What sides pair well with cherry glazed salmon? Cherry glazed salmon pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

11. Cherry Crisp

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cherries, sugar, flour, and vanilla.
3. Pour cherry mixture into a baking dish.
4. In another bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, and butter. Mix until crumbly.
5. Sprinkle oat mixture over cherries.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until topping is golden and cherries are bubbly.
7. Serve warm with ice cream.

FAQ: How can I make cherry crisp gluten-free? Make cherry crisp gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and oats in the topping mixture.

12. Cherry Bruschetta

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 tbsp honey
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. Spread ricotta cheese on toasted baguette slices.
2. Top with chopped cherries.
3. Drizzle with honey.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
5. Serve immediately.

FAQ: What occasions are suitable for serving cherry bruschetta? Cherry bruschetta is a delightful appetizer for gatherings, dinner parties, or casual summer get-togethers.

13. Cherry Jam

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
• 2 cups sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 package pectin

Preparation Steps:

1. In a large pot, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently.
3. Add pectin and boil for 1 minute.
4. Pour into sterilized jars and seal.
5. Process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.
6. Cool and store.

FAQ: How long does homemade cherry jam last? Homemade cherry jam can last up to a year when properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place.

14. Cherry Chocolate Bark

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dark chocolate chips
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds

Preparation Steps:

1. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler.
2. Spread melted chocolate on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle with chopped cherries and almonds.
4. Refrigerate until set.
5. Break into pieces and serve.

FAQ: Can I use other fruits in chocolate bark? Yes, you can substitute cherries with other fruits like dried apricots, cranberries, or blueberries for a different flavor.

15. Cherry Lemonade

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 cups water
• Ice cubes

Preparation Steps:

1. In a blender, puree cherries with a little water.
2. Strain the cherry puree into a pitcher.
3. Add lemon juice, sugar, and remaining water.
4. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
5. Serve over ice.

FAQ: How can I make cherry lemonade more festive? Make cherry lemonade more festive by adding a splash of sparkling water or garnishing with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices.

Conclusion

These 15 fresh cherry recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this vibrant fruit. Whether you’re enjoying a classic cherry pie, a refreshing cherry lemonade, or an elegant cherry bruschetta, these recipes are sure to impress your family and friends. Embrace the bounty of cherry season and elevate your culinary creations with these delightful dishes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cherries in these recipes? Yes, frozen cherries can be used in most of these recipes. Thaw and drain them before use to avoid excess moisture.
2. How do I pit cherries without a cherry pitter? Use a metal straw or a chopstick to push the pit out of the cherry through the stem hole.
3. Are fresh cherries healthy? Fresh cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
4. What types of cherries are best for baking? Tart cherries, such as Montmorency, are ideal for baking due to their firm texture and tangy flavor.
5. How can I store fresh cherries? Store fresh cherries in the refrigerator in a perforated plastic bag. Rinse just before use to keep them fresh longer.
6. Can I make cherry jam without pectin? Yes, you can make cherry jam without pectin by cooking the fruit and sugar longer to achieve the desired consistency.
7. What can I pair with cherries in a fruit salad? Cherries pair well with fruits like peaches, berries, and oranges in a fruit salad.
8. Are cherries good for savory dishes? Yes, cherries add a sweet and tangy flavor to savory dishes like salads, salsas, and glazes for meats.
9. How do I prevent cherries from sinking in cakes? Toss cherries in a little flour before folding them into the batter to help prevent sinking.
10. Can I freeze cherries for later use? Yes, freeze cherries on a baking sheet in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag for longer storage.
11. What beverages can I make with cherries? Besides cherry lemonade, you can make cherry smoothies, cherry sangria, and cherry cocktails.
12. How can I use cherry jam? Cherry jam is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to yogurt, or using as a filling for pastries.
13. What herbs complement cherries? Herbs like mint, basil, and thyme complement the flavor of cherries in various dishes.
14. Can I make a savory cherry sauce for meats? Yes, combine cherries with ingredients like balsamic vinegar and spices to create a savory sauce for meats.
15. Are there any allergy concerns with cherries? While rare, some people may be allergic to cherries. If you experience any allergic reactions, discontinue use and consult a doctor.