Are you a fan of tart and tangy flavors? Look no further than sour cherries! These versatile fruits are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite desserts, drinks, and even savory dishes. With their slightly sweet and intensely tart taste, sour cherries are a great addition to any recipe.
From classic pies and jams to innovative desserts like brownies and cheesecake bars, we’ve got 20 delicious sour cherry recipes that will satisfy your cravings for something new and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for inspiration for a special occasion, these recipes are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of sour cherries, exploring everything from sweet treats like muffins and tarts to savory dishes like sauces and glazes. With a range of flavors and textures to choose from, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes.
Sour Cherry Pie with Lattice Crust
This classic pie recipe showcases the tartness of sour cherries, perfectly balanced by a buttery lattice crust. A sweet and tangy combination that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
For the filling:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen sour cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the lattice crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. Roll out the lattice crust dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon the cherry filling onto the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Fold the crust edges over the filling, then weave the lattice pattern on top.
6. Brush with egg wash and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sour Cherry Clafoutis with Vanilla
This French-inspired dessert combines sweet vanilla with tart sour cherries, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Perfect for warm weather, this clafoutis is an elegant and effortless way to showcase seasonal cherries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sour cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the dish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Gently fold in sour cherries.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
6. Pour batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sour Cherry Jam with Cinnamon
This sweet and tangy jam is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. The addition of cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor to this classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sour cherries, pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 package (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the cinnamon and powdered pectin, stirring to combine.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Sour Cherry Compote for Pancakes
Elevate your pancake game with this sweet and tangy sour cherry compote! Perfect for topping fluffy pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sour cherries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cherries and remove any stems or pits.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries have broken down and the compote has thickened.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and lemon juice until smooth.
5. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the cherry compote and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the compote has reached your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Sour Cherry Chocolate Brownies
These brownies combine the deep flavor of dark chocolate with the tangy sweetness of sour cherries, creating a unique dessert that’s sure to please. Perfect for cherry lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) dark brown sugar
– 4 ounces (120g) high-quality dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup (120g) pitted sour cherries, chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. Melt butter and sugars in a large bowl over low heat, stirring until smooth.
4. Stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Fold in sour cherries and flour mixture until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sour Cherry Almond Tart
This sweet and tangy tart combines the flavors of sour cherries, almonds, and buttery pastry for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup sour cherry preserves
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and salt. Sprinkle mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Arrange sliced almonds on top of sugar mixture.
5. Spoon sour cherry preserves over the almonds, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush melted butter over the pastry crust.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sour Cherry Smoothie with Greek Yogurt
Start your day off right with this refreshing and tangy smoothie that combines the sweetness of sour cherries with the creaminess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen sour cherries
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen sour cherries, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is fully incorporated.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sour Cherry Ice Cream with Dark Chocolate Chunks
Sour Cherry Ice Cream with Dark Chocolate Chunks Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors in this unique ice cream recipe featuring sour cherries and dark chocolate chunks. This refreshing dessert is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sour cherry jam
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cherries (or 1 cup frozen cherries)
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sour cherry jam, chopped cherries (or frozen), and vanilla extract.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add dark chocolate chunks and continue to churn until well combined.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (chilling time not included)
Sour Cherry Muffins with Streusel Topping
These tender muffins are packed with the tangy flavor of sour cherries and topped with a crunchy streusel topping, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sour cherry jam or preserves
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– Streusel Topping: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sour cherry jam, eggs, and yogurt. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. For streusel topping, mix together flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
7. Sprinkle streusel topping over muffins.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sour Cherry Sauce for Roasted Duck
Sour Cherry Sauce for Roasted Duck: A Tangy and Sweet Accompaniment
This sweet and tangy sauce is the perfect complement to roasted duck, adding a burst of flavor to this classic dish. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a show-stopping accompaniment for your next special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sour cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sour cherries, sugar, red wine vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in honey until dissolved.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and a splash of the sauce until smooth.
5. Add the cornstarch mixture back into the saucepan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sour Cherry Cheesecake Bars
These cheesecake bars combine the sweetness of graham cracker crust with the tartness of sour cherries, creating a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cherry jam or preserves
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press into prepared dish.
3. Prepare cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in sour cherry jam.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sour Cherry Bread Pudding with Bourbon Glaze
Sour Cherry Bread Pudding with Bourbon Glaze: A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of cherries and bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup sour cherry preserves
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, cherry preserves, sugar, and salt. Mix until the bread is evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the bread mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. If using bourbon, prepare the glaze by whisking together 1/4 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey. Drizzle over the warm bread pudding.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sour Cherry Sorbet with Mint Garnish
This refreshing sorbet is perfect for hot summer days, with the tartness of sour cherries balanced by the cooling sweetness of mint. This easy-to-make dessert is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pitted sour cherries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sour cherries, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop into bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus churning time)
Serves: 6-8
Sour Cherry Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and tangy twist on classic French toast. This recipe fills thick slices of bread with a mixture of sour cherries, sugar, and cream, then cooks it to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or brioche bread
– 1 cup of sour cherries, pitted
– 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together sour cherries, sugar, and heavy cream until well combined.
2. Cut the bread into 1-inch thick slices and hollow out the center to create a pocket.
3. Stuff each slice with the cherry mixture, dividing it evenly among the four slices.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and salt until smooth.
5. Dip each stuffed bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
6. Cook the French toast in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with additional cherries and syrup if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sour Cherry and Goat Cheese Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tangy sweetness of sour cherries with the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner. With its vibrant colors and delicate flavors, it’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sour cherries, pitted
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped nuts.
2. Arrange the sour cherries on top of the salad mixture.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Sour Cherry Glazed Pork Chops
Sour Cherry Glazed Pork Chops: Sweet and tangy, this recipe combines the flavors of sour cherries and pork chops for a delicious and impressive main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1 cup sour cherry preserves
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cherry preserves, honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Brush both sides with olive oil.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the sour cherry glaze over both sides of the pork chops.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sour Cherry Granola Parfait
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and tangy combination of crunchy granola, creamy yogurt, and plump sour cherries. This parfait is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup sour cherries, pitted
– 1 tablespoon granola topping (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). In a bowl, mix together oats, nuts, honey, brown sugar, and salt.
2. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted.
3. Allow the granola to cool completely.
4. In a parfait glass or tall clear cup, layer Greek yogurt, sour cherries, and granola topping.
5. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a dollop of yogurt on top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sour Cherry Cobbler with Buttermilk Biscuits
This classic Southern dessert combines sweet and tangy sour cherries with flaky, buttery buttermilk biscuits for a warm and comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen sour cherries, pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups buttermilk biscuits (see below)
Buttermilk Biscuits:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cherries, sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Pour in melted butter and stir until combined.
4. Roll out biscuits on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
5. Place biscuits on top of cherry mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sour Cherry Martini with Lime Twist
A refreshing twist on the classic martini, this Sour Cherry Martini with Lime Twist combines the tartness of sour cherries with the brightness of lime. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a light and revitalizing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 1 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup sour cherries, pitted
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the cherry liqueur, vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake until chilled and well combined.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a sour cherry and a lime wheel twist.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
Sour Cherry and Dark Chocolate Truffles
Sour Cherry and Dark Chocolate Truffles: A sweet and tangy treat that combines the richness of dark chocolate with the brightness of sour cherries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup sour cherry jam or preserves
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the confectioners’ sugar and sour cherry jam until well combined.
3. Stir the heavy cream and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate until smooth.
4. Add the sugar-cherry mixture to the chocolate and stir until a dough forms.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and serve.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy taste of sour cherries with these 20 delicious recipes! From classic desserts like pie and clafoutis, to innovative treats like brownies and truffles, there’s something for every occasion. Enjoy sour cherries in a variety of dishes, such as jam and compote for breakfast or snacks, sauces and glazes for roasted meats, and even savory salads and cocktails. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new flavor to try, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Leave a Reply