Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to get creative in the kitchen. One of our favorite fruits for the season is the sweet and tangy sour cherry! Not only are they a burst of flavor, but they’re also incredibly versatile, making them the perfect addition to everything from classic desserts to savory meals.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 18 delicious sour cherry recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. From sweet treats like Sour Cherry Pie with Almond Crust and Sour Cherry Jam with Vanilla, to refreshing drinks like Sour Cherry Mojito Cocktail and Sour Cherry Smoothie Bowl, there’s something for everyone.
So grab your apron, preheat your oven (or blender), and get ready to sink your teeth into the juiciest, most mouthwatering sour cherry creations out there!
Sour Cherry Pie with Almond Crust
Sour Cherry Pie with Almond Crust: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Recipe!
This recipe combines the tangy flavor of sour cherries with the nutty goodness of almonds, creating a unique and scrumptious pie. The almond crust adds a delightful crunch to the soft and juicy filling.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 2 cups sour cherries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Make the crust by combining flour, almonds, confectioners’ sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Prepare the filling by mixing cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt in a separate bowl.
5. Pour the filling into the crust-lined pie dish.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Hungarian Sour Cherry Soup
This traditional Hungarian soup is a sweet and tangy delight, perfect for warm weather or as a refreshing side dish. With the simplicity of cherry soup, this recipe highlights the bold flavor of sour cherries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sour cherries
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cherries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, chicken broth, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until the cornstarch is dissolved.
3. Add the cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the butter until melted.
6. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Sour Cherry Clafoutis
A French-inspired dessert, Clafoutis is a baked fruit pudding that’s perfect for warm weather. This Sour Cherry Clafoutis recipe combines the sweetness of cherries with a hint of tartness.
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
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cherries, milk, egg, and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sour Cherry Jam with Vanilla
This sweet and tangy jam is a perfect blend of sour cherries and creamy vanilla, ideal for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sour cherries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cherries and remove any stems or pits.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and water.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the fruit is soft and the mixture has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Let the jam cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sour Cherry and Dark Chocolate Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy tart that combines the richness of dark chocolate with the brightness of sour cherries.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup sour cherry jam or preserves
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Spread sour cherry jam over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Pour melted chocolate over the cherry jam, spreading it evenly to the edges.
6. Fold the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush egg wash over the pastry and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Allow tart to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Sour Cherry Compote over Greek Yogurt
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic yogurt parfait, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of Greek yogurt with the tartness of sour cherries. Perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sour cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Add water and bring mixture to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until compote thickens slightly.
4. Strain compote through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp.
5. Spoon Greek yogurt into individual serving cups or bowls.
6. Top with warm sour cherry compote.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts or shredded coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Sour Cherry Mojito Cocktail
A twist on the classic mojito, this refreshing cocktail combines the tartness of sour cherries with the sweetness of lime and mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz sour cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering or Cherry Marnier)
– Handful of ice
– Sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and sour cherry liqueur.
2. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
3. Fill a highball glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
4. Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the glass and gently press them against the sides to release their oils and flavor.
5. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and drop it in for garnish.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Roasted Duck with Sour Cherry Sauce
Roasted Duck with Sour Cherry Sauce: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Dish
This recipe combines the rich flavor of roasted duck with the tangy sweetness of sour cherries, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional roasted poultry.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) duck breast or crown
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, quartered
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sour cherry jam or preserves
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season the duck with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the duck until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the duck to a roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the duck is cooking, combine the sour cherry jam and chicken broth in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve the roasted duck with the sour cherry sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Sour Cherry and Almond Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of sour cherries with the crunch of almonds, perfect for a breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup sour cherry preserves
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and sour cherry preserves. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow muffins to cool on wire rack before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sour Cherry Sorbet
This sorbet recipe showcases the tartness of sour cherries, perfect for hot summer days when a sweet and tangy treat is just what you need.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sour cherries, pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the sour cherries until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherry puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Let cool to room temperature.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30-40 minutes (including chilling time)
Sour Cherry and Goat Cheese Salad
Sour Cherry and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe
Summary: A refreshing summer salad that combines the tanginess of sour cherries with the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sour cherries, pitted
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sour cherries, and crumbled goat cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a side dish.
Sour Cherry BBQ Sauce for Ribs
A tangy twist on traditional BBQ sauce, this recipe combines the sweetness of cherries with a hint of sourness to create a unique and delicious glaze for your ribs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup cherry preserves
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, cherry preserves, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None, as this sauce is meant to be used during the last 10-15 minutes of grilling or cooking your ribs.
Usage: Brush the sour cherry BBQ sauce over your ribs during the last stages of cooking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Sour Cherry and Pistachio Ice Cream
This unique ice cream flavor combines the tartness of sour cherries with the crunch of pistachios, creating a refreshing and flavorful dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sour cherry jam or preserves
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh or dried sour cherries
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sour cherry jam, chopped cherries, and pistachios.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and store in the freezer.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (heating the mixture) + chilling time
Sour Cherry Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and tangy twist on classic French toast, filled with the flavors of sour cherry preserves and crispy almonds. This breakfast treat is perfect for a weekend morning or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 1/2 cup sour cherry preserves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix together sour cherry preserves and granulated sugar in a small bowl.
6. Stuff each French toast slice with about 1 tablespoon of the cherry mixture.
7. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the filling.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Sour Cherry and Thyme Galette
This rustic galette celebrates the flavors of summer with a sweet and tangy combination of sour cherries and fragrant thyme. Perfect for a warm-weather dessert or snack, this elegant yet effortless tart is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup sour cherries, pitted
– 2 tablespoons thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. In a bowl, combine cherries, thyme leaves, and granulated sugar.
6. Place cherry mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Fold other half of dough over filling, pressing gently to seal.
8. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for glaze.
9. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sour Cherry Smoothie Bowl
A refreshing and healthy breakfast or snack option, this Sour Cherry Smoothie Bowl is packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen sour cherries
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Handful of ice cubes
– Toppings (optional): granola, shredded coconut, chopped nuts
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen sour cherries, banana slices, Greek yogurt, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add unsweetened almond milk and blend until well combined.
3. Add handful of ice cubes and blend until desired consistency is reached.
4. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
5. Top with desired toppings (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Sour Cherry and Brie Crostini
A sweet and savory combination of flavors and textures, these crostini are perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup sour cherry jam
– 8 oz Brie cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Spread a small amount of sour cherry jam on each toasted baguette slice.
5. Top with a slice of Brie cheese and drizzle with honey.
6. Garnish with chopped thyme leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Sour Cherry Glazed Pork Chops
Sweet and tangy, these pork chops are a perfect combination of flavors. With the tartness of sour cherries balanced by the richness of brown sugar, this glaze is sure to elevate your pork chops game.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/2 cup sour cherry preserves
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cherry preserves, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Brush the glaze on both sides of the pork chops.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until pork chops reach desired doneness.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Sour cherries are a sweet treat for summer. From classic desserts like pie and clafoutis to savory dishes like roasted duck and BBQ sauce, these recipes showcase the tart fruit’s versatility. Try making a Sour Cherry Pie with Almond Crust or a refreshing Sour Cherry Mojito Cocktail. For something more unique, try the Sour Cherry Compote over Greek Yogurt or the Sour Cherry Glazed Pork Chops. Whatever your taste buds crave, there’s a sour cherry recipe to satisfy it.
