Sour cherries, known for their vibrant acidity and deep, tangy flavor, are a versatile ingredient beloved in culinary circles. These stone fruits, smaller and softer than their sweet counterparts, lend a unique character to dishes, making them a favorite for bold, flavor-forward recipes. Whether baked into pastries, simmered into sauces, or preserved in jams, sour cherries infuse meals with a delightful complexity that can elevate both sweet and savory creations.
Exploring sour cherry recipes opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From the classic sour cherry pie that beckons with its flaky crust and juicy filling to innovative savory applications like sour cherry glazes for meats, these recipes celebrate the fruit’s distinctively sharp zest. This versatility makes sour cherries a prized ingredient among chefs and home cooks aiming to add a punch of flavor and a touch of sophistication to their dishes.
1. Fresh and Tangy Sour Cherry Salad
Image and recipe by marthastewart
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant Sour Cherry Salad! Fresh sour cherries, fennel, and a medley of tender herbs and greens come together with a tangy sherry vinegar and lemon dressing. The crisp radishes and spring onions add a delightful crunch, making this salad a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s a refreshing, summery dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!
2. Sour Cherry Galette
Image and recipe by howsweeteats
Indulge in the perfect blend of tart and sweet with this Rustic Sour Cherry Galette. A flaky, buttery crust envelops a juicy sour cherry filling, enhanced with a hint of vanilla. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, serve this delightful dessert warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat. This recipe makes two crusts, so you can freeze one for future deliciousness!
3. Zesty Sour Cherry Muffins
Image and recipe by sweetphi
Looking for a muffin that packs a punch of flavor? These zesty sour cherry muffins are just what you need! With a moist, fluffy base infused with lemon zest and juicy sour cherries, each bite is a burst of tangy goodness. Perfect for breakfast or a midday treat, these muffins are topped with a sprinkle of sanding sugar for a delightful crunch. Bake a batch and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and tart!
“Did you know that sour cherries contain more antioxidants than their sweeter counterparts? This makes them not only a bolder choice in flavor for recipes but also a healthier one. Their vibrant tartness elevates traditional desserts and can bring a surprising twist to savory dishes”
4. Black Cherry–Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwiches
Image and recipe by foodandwine
Indulge in the perfect summer treat with these espresso-chocolate cherry ice cream sandwiches! A luscious black cherry ice cream is sandwiched between two rich, espresso-infused chocolate cookies, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Each bite is a heavenly mix of creamy, tart cherry goodness and deep, chocolatey bliss. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or a sweet snack on a hot day!
5. Sour Cherry Pudding
Image and recipe by thegourmetlarder
Indulge in this delightful sour cherry pudding, a perfect blend of tangy cherries and a sweet, buttery cake. The juicy sour cherries mixed with brown sugar create a delicious topping that bakes into the soft, cinnamon-spiced cake. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for an irresistible dessert that’s sure to impress. It’s a simple yet sensational treat that brings a burst of flavor to every bite.
6. Delightful Sour Cherry Crumble
Image and recipe by umamigirl
Dive into the sweet-tart bliss of this Sour Cherry Crumble! Juicy, pitted sour cherries are mixed with sugar, vanilla, and a splash of lemon juice, then topped with a buttery oat and brown sugar crumble. Baked to golden perfection, this dessert is irresistible served warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds!
“Did you know that the intense color of sour cherries comes from anthocyanins, which are powerful anti-inflammatory agents? Including sour cherries in your diet can help reduce muscle inflammation and pain, making them a great post-workout snack when turned into smoothies or energy bars.”
7. Homemade Sour Cherry Liqueur
Image and recipe by roxyskitchen
Crafting your own sour cherry liqueur is a delightful tradition that’s both simple and rewarding. Layer ripe sour cherries and sugar in a large jar, pour in vodka and water, and let nature work its magic. Stir daily for a week until the sugar dissolves, then let it infuse for 5-6 weeks for the best flavor. Strain and bottle your rich, homemade liqueur – perfect for sipping and sharing!
8. Easy Sour Cherry Tarts
Image and recipe by shiftingroots
Transform your sour cherries into a delightful treat with these mini tarts! Cook the cherries with sugar until luscious and thick, then spoon them into tart shells and bake until golden. Cool, and top with whipped cream, edible flowers, and thyme for a beautiful finish. These little bites of cherry goodness are perfect for any gathering!
9. Sour Cherry Pie Filling
Image and recipe by everydaypie
Sweet meets tart in these delightful sour cherry preserves! Start with juicy pitted cherries, a touch of lemon juice, and tart cherry juice. Cook to perfection with sugar and cornstarch until bubbly, then finish with almond extract and butter for a smooth finish. These preserves are perfect for your morning toast or favorite dessert, and they store beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
“Did you know that sour cherry trees are more cold-resistant than sweet cherry trees? This toughness allows them to thrive in harsher climates, which is why they’re commonly grown in northern regions. They’re a fantastic choice for gardeners looking to add both beauty and yield to their landscapes.”
10. Sour Cherry Pie
Image and recipe by oliviascuisine
Dive into the magic of summer with this delightful All-Butter Sour Cherry Pie! The flaky, buttery crust perfectly complements the tart sweetness of the cherry filling, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. With a hint of almond and vanilla, this pie is sure to become a family favorite. Ready your pie dish and rolling pin, and enjoy a baking adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds!
11. Easy Sour Cherry Sauce
Image and recipe by artandthekitchen
This delightful sour cherry sauce is a versatile gem that brings a burst of flavor to any dish. Made with juicy pitted cherries, a touch of sugar, and a hint of vanilla, this sauce is simmered to perfection and thickened with a simple cornstarch slurry. Whether you’re topping off a dessert or adding a sweet twist to breakfast, this sauce is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. It’s easy to make, keeps well in the fridge, and freezes beautifully for later use.
“Did you know that sour cherries pectin content makes them ideal for jams and jellies? This natural gelling agent means you need less additional pectin, making your preserves purer and more intensely flavored with the fruit itself.”
12. Sour Cherry Cobbler
Image and recipe by bakingsense
This sour cherry cobbler is a delightful blend of tart cherries and a fluffy, golden biscuit topping. Start by macerating 4 lbs of pitted sour cherries with sugar, then thicken their juice for a rich filling. Top with a buttery dough made with a hint of almond extract, and bake until bubbly and golden. Perfect served warm or at room temperature, this cobbler is sure to be a hit!
13. Sour Cherry Crisp
Image and recipe by runningtothekitchen
Dive into the tangy sweetness of this Sour Cherry Almond Crumble! Bursting with tart cherries and a hint of lemon, this dessert is perfectly balanced with a nutty almond topping spiced with cinnamon and cardamom. Baked to golden perfection, this crumble is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Serve it warm and watch it disappear!
14. Grilled Halloumi and Cherry Salad
Image and recipe by saveur
This vibrant Grilled Halloumi and Sour Cherry Barley Salad is a summer delight. Start by cooking tender barley, then char halloumi, juicy cherries, and sweet cherry tomatoes on the grill. Toss everything together with fresh spinach, soaked shallots, crunchy almonds, and a tangy splash of vinegar for a refreshing and unique salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this colorful, flavorful dish at your next BBQ or picnic!
15. Summertime Sour Cherry Crisp
Image and recipe by thesaltypot
Dive into this delightful Sour Cherry Crisp! Fresh, pitted sour cherries are mixed with a touch of sugar and flour, then topped with a buttery, crunchy blend of oats, brown sugar, and more flour. Baked to golden perfection, this dessert promises a mouthwatering contrast of tart cherries and sweet, crisp topping. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
16. Almond-Infused Sour Cherry Pie
Image and recipe by weekendatthecottage
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with this delightful Almond-Infused Sour Cherry Pie. With a flaky homemade crust and a filling bursting with pitted sour cherries, almond extract, and a hint of lemon, each bite is a perfect balance of tart and sweet. Baked to golden perfection and best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this pie is a must-try for cherry lovers!
17. Sbriciolata di Millefoglie with Sour-Cherry Preserves
Image and recipe by marthastewart
Elevate your dessert game with these irresistible Lemon Pastry Cream Parfaits. Start with a rich, tangy lemon pastry cream layered with crispy puff pastry pieces. Add a touch of sweetness with a sprinkle of preserves, and top it all off with a dollop of whipped cream. These parfaits are a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and citrusy goodness that will leave your taste buds dancing.
18. Cherry Empanadillas
Image and recipe by foodandwine
Indulge in these delightful Glazed Sour Cherry Empanadillas, featuring a buttery, turmeric-spiced dough encasing a luscious filling of sweet and tangy cherries, enhanced with a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Each empanadilla is fried to golden perfection and finished with a vibrant pink glaze, making them not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Perfect for a sweet snack or a unique dessert, these empanadillas are sure to impress!
19. Fresh Cherry Loaf Cake
Image and recipe by whereismyspoon
This cherry yogurt loaf cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with a blend of Greek yogurt and pitted cherries, it’s wonderfully moist and flavorful. The process is simple: mix wet and dry ingredients separately, fold in the cherries, and bake to golden perfection. Top it off with a sprinkle of brown sugar and a dusting of icing sugar for a sweet finish that’s sure to impress!
20. Burrata With Cherries And Sumac
Image and recipe by beyondsweetandsavory
This delightful recipe brings together the rich creaminess of burrata with the vibrant sweetness of Bing cherries. The cherries, marinated in a tangy red wine vinegar mixture, pair perfectly with the luscious cheese. Topped with a sprinkle of sumac and fresh basil leaves, this dish is perfect served with crackers or a crusty baguette. It’s a simple yet elegant treat that will impress any guest!
21. Grilled Pork Belly with Buttered Corn and Sour-Sweet Cherry-Jalapeño Relish
Image and recipe by saveur
Indulge in the savory and sweet harmony of this grilled pork belly dish topped with a vibrant sour cherry salsa. After slow-cooking the pork to tender perfection, it’s grilled to a delicious char and served over a bed of golden corn. The tangy, fresh cherry salsa adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the rich, juicy pork, making every bite a delightful experience. This recipe is sure to impress at any summer gathering!
22. Sour-Cherry Mojitos
Image and recipe by marthastewart
Elevate your summer gatherings with this Basil-Infused Sour Cherry Sparkler. Combining the tartness of partially thawed sour cherries with the zesty kick of fresh lemon juice and the aromatic touch of basil, this recipe is a refreshing delight. Simply mix the fruity concoction with vodka and top it off with sparkling water for a fizzy, irresistible treat. Perfect for any occasion, this vibrant drink will keep your guests coming back for more!
23. German Cherry Cheesecake
Image and recipe by cinnamonandcoriander
Get ready for a burst of flavor with this Sour Cherry Vanilla Cream Tart! Start with a buttery shortcrust pastry base, then layer on a luscious vanilla pudding mixed with smooth sour cream. Top it all off with vibrant, juicy sour cherries. This tart bakes to perfection, offering a delightful blend of tangy and creamy in every bite. Cool it completely and serve slightly chilled for a refreshing treat that’s sure to impress!
24. Delightful Sour Cherry Gelée with Vanilla Cream Swirls
Image and recipe by marthastewart
This delightful dessert combines the tartness of sour cherries with a smooth, creamy vanilla finish. Start by simmering fresh or thawed cherries with sugar and water, then blend the cooled cherry juice with gelatin to create a refreshing gelée. Add a touch of elegance with a swirl of vanilla-infused cream, and you’ll have a stunning, delicious treat that’s sure to impress! Perfect for any summer gathering.
25. Chilled Sour Cherry Soup with Fennel & Sour Cream
Image and recipe by foodandwine
Looking for a refreshing and tangy twist on your summer soups? Try this Chilled Sour Cherry and Fennel Soup! It combines the subtle sweetness of fennel and the tartness of sour cherries, blended to perfection with creamy buttermilk and sour cream. Garnished with fresh dill and parsley, this vibrant soup is a delightful, chilled treat for hot days.
26. German Sour Cherry Cake with Streusel – Fireman Cake
Image and recipe by cinnamonandcoriander
This German Sour Cherry Crumble Tart is a delightful blend of tangy cherries and sweet hazelnut crumble. Start with a buttery, crumbly pastry base, topped with a rich, tart cherry filling. Add a crunchy layer of hazelnut streusel, and bake until golden. Serve with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for a truly indulgent treat. Perfect for any occasion, this tart is sure to impress!
27. Sour Cherry Chocolate Oatmeal
Image and recipe by thehealthfulideas
Start your day with a bowl of Choco-Cherry Oatmeal Bliss! This delightful breakfast combines creamy rolled oats cooked in almond milk with the sweet tang of sour cherries. Infused with vanilla, maple syrup, amount of sugar and a hint of raw cacao, it’s a healthy yet indulgent way to kickstart your morning. Top it off with your favorite berries, nuts, and a drizzle of homemade chocolate sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
28. Cherry & Herb Salad
Image and recipe by saveur
Dive into this vibrant salad featuring sweet-tart cherries, fresh cilantro, and toasted walnuts, elevated by the tangy kick of pomegranate molasses and lemon juice. Perfect on its own or as a flavorful relish for grilled meats or fish, this recipe by chef Erez Komarovsky is a must-try twist on a classic Turkish dish. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
29. Sour Cherry Pilaf
Image and recipe by nigella
Transform your rice into a masterpiece with this delightful sour cherry pilaf. Start by rinsing and soaking your rice to ensure it’s fluffy, then let it soak up the vibrant flavors of macerated frozen cherries. Layer the parboiled rice with juicy sour cherries, drizzle with cherry syrup, and let it steam to perfection. Finish with a touch of saffron for a pop of color and serve this elegant dish at your next feast, perfect as a vegetarian main or with chicken or meatballs.
30. Fresh Sour Cherry Pie Recipe
Image and recipe by thebossykitchen
Whip up this delightful Sour Cherry Pie with a buttery, flaky crust that’s the perfect vessel for a tangy-sweet cherry filling. The homemade pâte brisée crust is a breeze to make, whether you use a food processor or your trusty hands. The secret to this pie’s magic lies in the sour cherries, bursting with flavor and perfectly complemented by a hint of vanilla or almond extract. Baked to a golden perfection, this pie is a must-try summer dessert that’s sure to impress!
FAQS
1. What are sour cherries?
Sour cherries, also known as tart cherries, are a variety of cherry that are smaller, softer, and more acidic than their sweet counterparts. They are commonly used in cooking and baking due to their vibrant flavor.
2. Where can I buy sour cherries?
Sour cherries can be found at farmers’ markets, specialty food stores, and some supermarkets during their season, which typically runs from late June to early August. Frozen sour cherries are often available year-round in the freezer section of grocery stores.
3. How do you pit sour cherries?
You can pit sour cherries by using a cherry pitter, which removes the pit with minimal fruit loss. Alternatively, you can use a small knife or a paper clip to manually remove the pits.
4. Can I use sweet cherries instead of sour cherries in recipes?
Yes, but the flavor profile will differ. Sweet cherries are less acidic and not as tart, so you might want to adjust the sugar and lemon juice in recipes to achieve a similar balance of sweetness and acidity.
5. How should I store sour cherries?
Fresh sour cherries should be stored in the refrigerator and used within a few days of purchase. For longer storage, pitting and freezing them is a good option.
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