As a cherry enthusiast, I always look forward to cherry season. There’s nothing like the burst of sweetness and tartness you get from fresh cherries. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless recipes, and I’m excited to share 25 of my favorite fresh cherry recipes with you. From breakfast to dessert, these recipes will surely delight your taste buds and make the most of this juicy fruit.
Breakfast Delights
1. Cherry Almond Smoothie
One of my go-to breakfasts is a Cherry Almond Smoothie. It’s quick, nutritious, and delicious. Blend together a cup of pitted fresh cherries, a banana, a tablespoon of almond butter, a cup of almond milk, and a handful of ice cubes. The result is a creamy, refreshing drink that kickstarts your day with a burst of flavor and energy.
2. Cherry Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a staple in my morning routine, and adding fresh cherries elevates it to a new level. Cook your oats as usual, and stir in a handful of pitted and chopped cherries. Top with a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and some sliced almonds. The cherries add a delightful sweetness and a pop of color to your bowl.
3. Cherry Yogurt Parfait
For a simple yet satisfying breakfast, try a Cherry Yogurt Parfait. Layer Greek yogurt with fresh cherries, granola, and a drizzle of honey in a glass. Repeat the layers and finish with a cherry on top. This parfait is not only visually appealing but also packed with protein and fiber to keep you full all morning.
Snacks and Appetizers
4. Cherry Salsa
Cherry Salsa is a unique and tasty twist on traditional salsa. Combine pitted and chopped cherries with diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish. The sweetness of the cherries balances the heat from the jalapeño, making it a crowd-pleaser.
5. Cherry Brie Bites
Cherry Brie Bites are perfect for entertaining. Cut a wheel of brie into bite-sized pieces and top each piece with a fresh cherry half and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with honey before serving. These bites are an elegant and delicious appetizer that your guests will love.
6. Cherry Almond Energy Balls
When I need a quick snack on the go, I turn to Cherry Almond Energy Balls. In a food processor, blend together a cup of pitted cherries, a cup of almonds, a tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of salt until a sticky dough forms. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and refrigerate for at least an hour before enjoying. These energy balls are perfect for a mid-day pick-me-up.
Salads
7. Cherry and Goat Cheese Salad
This Cherry and Goat Cheese Salad is a perfect combination of sweet and savory. Toss mixed greens with pitted cherries, crumbled goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. The creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts complement the juicy cherries beautifully.
8. Quinoa Cherry Salad
Quinoa Cherry Salad is a nutritious and flavorful dish that can be served as a main course or a side. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. In a large bowl, combine the quinoa with pitted cherries, chopped cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh mint. Dress with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This salad is refreshing and packed with protein.
9. Cherry Caprese Salad
For a fun twist on the classic Caprese salad, try this Cherry Caprese Salad. Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and pitted cherries on a platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. The cherries add a sweet contrast to the savory mozzarella and tomatoes, making this salad a delightful summer dish.
Main Courses
10. Cherry Glazed Chicken
Cherry Glazed Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress. In a saucepan, combine pitted cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the cherries are soft and the sauce has thickened. Grill or bake chicken breasts until cooked through, then brush with the cherry glaze and serve. The glaze adds a rich, fruity flavor to the chicken that’s simply irresistible.
11. Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Sauce
Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Sauce is another favorite in my household. Season a pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then roast until cooked to your liking. In a saucepan, combine pitted cherries, red wine, chicken broth, and a touch of honey. Cook until the cherries are soft and the sauce has reduced. Slice the pork and serve with the cherry sauce drizzled over the top.
12. Cherry Balsamic Glazed Salmon
For a healthy and delicious dinner, try Cherry Balsamic Glazed Salmon. In a small bowl, mix together pitted cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. Brush the mixture over salmon fillets and bake until the salmon is cooked through. The cherries and balsamic vinegar create a tangy, sweet glaze that pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of the salmon.
Desserts
13. Cherry Clafoutis
Cherry Clafoutis is a classic French dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. In a blender, combine eggs, milk, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and scatter pitted cherries on top. Bake until the clafoutis is set and golden brown. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. This dessert is light, custardy, and full of cherry goodness.
14. Cherry Pie
No list of cherry recipes would be complete without a classic Cherry Pie. Use your favorite pie crust recipe or store-bought crust, and fill it with a mixture of pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of lemon juice. Cover with a lattice top crust and bake until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.
15. Cherry Cobbler
Cherry Cobbler is another must-try dessert. In a baking dish, combine pitted cherries with sugar and a bit of cornstarch. Top with spoonfuls of biscuit dough made from flour, sugar, baking powder, butter, and milk. Bake until the cherries are bubbling and the biscuits are golden brown. This cobbler is best enjoyed warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
16. Cherry Ice Cream
Homemade Cherry Ice Cream is a refreshing summer treat. In a blender, combine pitted cherries, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, and vanilla extract. Combine the cherry puree with the cream mixture and churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The result is a creamy, fruity ice cream that’s perfect for hot days.
17. Chocolate Cherry Brownies
For a decadent dessert, try Chocolate Cherry Brownies. Prepare your favorite brownie batter and stir in a cup of pitted and chopped cherries before baking. The cherries add a burst of flavor and moisture to the rich, fudgy brownies. These brownies are perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings.
18. Cherry Cheesecake
Cherry Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress. Prepare a graham cracker crust and fill it with a creamy cheesecake mixture. Top with a homemade cherry topping made by simmering pitted cherries with sugar and cornstarch until thickened. Chill the cheesecake until set and garnish with fresh cherries before serving. This cheesecake is rich, creamy, and bursting with cherry flavor.
19. Cherry Sorbet
Cherry Sorbet is a light and refreshing dessert that’s easy to make. In a blender, combine pitted cherries, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. Strain the mixture to remove any solids, then churn in an ice cream maker until thick and smooth. Freeze until firm and serve as a cool, fruity treat on a hot day.
20. Cherry Galette
A Cherry Galette is a rustic, free-form pie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Roll out a pie crust and fill with a mixture of pitted cherries, sugar, and a bit of cornstarch. Fold the edges of the crust over the filling and bake until the crust is golden and the cherries are bubbling. This galette is perfect for showcasing the natural beauty and flavor of fresh cherries.
Drinks
21. Cherry Lemonade
Cherry Lemonade is a refreshing twist on a classic summer drink. In a blender, combine pitted cherries, lemon juice, sugar, and water until smooth. Strain the mixture and pour over ice. Garnish with fresh cherries and lemon slices. This lemonade is tangy, sweet, and perfect for sipping on a hot day.
22. Cherry Mojito
For a fun and fruity cocktail, try a Cherry Mojito. Muddle fresh cherries, mint leaves, and sugar in a glass. Add lime juice, rum, and a splash of soda water. Stir and garnish with more cherries and mint. This mojito is a refreshing and festive drink that’s perfect for summer parties.
23. Cherry Sangria
Cherry Sangria is a delicious and easy-to-make party drink. In a large pitcher, combine red wine, pitted cherries, orange slices, lemon slices, and a bit of sugar. Let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve over ice and enjoy. The cherries add a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor to the sangria.
- Cherry Smoothie Bowl
A Cherry Smoothie Bowl is a fun and nutritious way to start your day. Blend together pitted cherries, banana, Greek yogurt, and a splash of almond milk until smooth. Pour into a bowl and top with your favorite toppings, such as granola, sliced almonds, and fresh fruit. This smoothie bowl is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
25. Cherry Margarita
For a twist on the classic margarita, try a Cherry Margarita. In a blender, combine pitted cherries, lime juice, tequila, triple sec, and a bit of agave syrup until smooth. Serve over ice in a salt-rimmed glass and garnish with a lime wedge and a cherry. This margarita is a fun and festive drink that’s perfect for summer celebrations.
I hope you enjoy these 25 fresh cherry recipes as much as I do. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, a delicious main course, or a decadent dessert, there’s a recipe here to suit every occasion. Happy cooking!