There’s something undeniably special about cherries – their fleeting availability, the burst of flavor they release when ripe, and the versatility that makes them a perfect fit for countless sweet and savory recipes. While bing cherries are often praised for their sweet-tart and fruity taste, Rainier cherries bring a floral and caramel depth to pies and bars, while Black Tartarian cherries offer a tangy berry note and lambert cherries provide a luscious sweetness ideal for jams and sauces.
And then there’s the sheer range of ways you can use them: from traditional desserts like clafoutis or fruit cocktail to unexpected applications like spooning them over chicken or using them as a topping on pizza. Whether you prefer your cherries front and center, hidden in the mix, or as a sweet glaze, there’s a recipe out there that will leave you wanting more.
In this post, we’ll be exploring 34 of our favorite cherry dessert recipes, each one a testament to the fruit’s incredible range and the joy it brings when used in the right way.
Cherry Clafoutis
Indulge in the simplicity of French patisserie with Cherry Clafoutis, a velvety dessert that belies its elegance. This show-stopping treat requires minimal ingredients, likely already stocked in your pantry, and can be effortlessly prepared using fresh or canned cherries. For an added touch of sophistication, dust the finished product with powdered sugar before serving, allowing the subtle sweetness to meld with the tartness of the cherries.
Cherry Danish
Indulge in the sweet simplicity of this effortless cherry dessert recipe, perfect for satisfying your cravings at any time of day. This Cherry Danish is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed as a decadent dessert or a delightful breakfast option. The combination of light and airy crust, succulent cherries, and tangy cream cheese is a match made in heaven. Start your day off right with the sweetness of this cherry-filled delight.
Classic Cherry Delight
This beloved cherry dessert recipe consistently delivers. The straightforward three-layer treat utilizes a graham cracker crust to maintain a light balance, while the cream cheese filling introduces a judicious level of sweetness. Additionally, the recipe is remarkably easy and budget-friendly to prepare, requiring only a handful of essential ingredients.
Cherry Pie Crumb Bars
For those seeking a refreshing and satisfying dessert to enjoy during the warm summer months, a simple crumb bar filled with cherry goodness is an ideal choice. This sweet treat boasts a light and airy texture, with a subtle sweetness that won’t overwhelm. The crumbly topping adds a delightful crunch, providing a perfect contrast to the fruity filling. While fresh cherries are always a great option, frozen ones can be used as a suitable substitute.
However, it’s essential to thaw the frozen fruit before incorporating it into the bars to ensure the best results.
Easy Cherry Cobbler
This classic cherry cobbler recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden-brown crust provides a satisfying contrast to the soft, moist cake, while the sweet cherry filling brings everything together. This versatile dessert is perfect for those who can’t decide between a fruity or rich treat – it’s truly the best of both worlds.
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Envisioning a harmonious blend of succulent cherries, creamy cheesecake, and rich fudge brownie flavors, this cherry cheesecake brownie recipe delivers just that. With the option to bake in either a muffin pan for effortless cleanup or a traditional baking pan, you’re free to choose your preferred method. However, don’t forget to grease the pan thoroughly to ensure the brownies and cherry filling release effortlessly from the edges.
Cherry Cream Cheese Cobbler
Indulge in the sweet delight of this cherry cream cheese cobbler by topping it off with a generous helping of whipped cream or a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream. The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and no advanced culinary skills. Feel free to get creative by substituting the cherry filling with your favorite fruits – apples or blueberries pair perfectly with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.
Cherry Crisp
Indulge in this mouthwatering recipe that’s surprisingly quick to prepare, yet boasts flavors reminiscent of hours spent in the kitchen. Both sweet and tart cherries can be used, as they harmonize beautifully with the crunchy oatmeal topping infused with a hint of brown sugar sweetness. For an added layer of complexity, pair it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, allowing the cherries’ natural flavor to shine.
Cherry Berry Smoothie
Indulge in the sweet taste of cherries by using pitted ones, which can be effortlessly removed with a cherry pitter. If you’re without pitted fruit, this convenient tool is a must-have. This luscious treat not only satisfies your cravings but also makes for a delightful and lighter breakfast option.
Take it to the next level by blending in some milk, yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, cherry juice, and your preferred berries with ice, creating a refreshing and portable cherry dessert that’s perfect for sipping on-the-go.
Cherry Biscotti Recipe
Imagine indulging in an unconventional take on traditional cherry bars – instead, you’ll find yourself enjoying a biscotti filled with sweet and tangy fruits. The harmonious blend of almond and orange flavors expertly balances the tartness of the cherries, resulting in a delightfully crispy and airy twice-baked cookie. When paired with a steaming hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk, this biscotti transforms into an even more indulgent treat.
As you dip it into your drink, the cookie softens slightly, allowing the flavors to meld together in a delightful culinary experience.
Chocolate Covered Cherries
There’s no denying the appeal of cherry desserts coated in rich chocolate. One classic combination that’s hard to resist is fresh cherries dipped in a velvety coating of milk or dark chocolate. With this recipe, you can create bite-sized treats that rival those found at your favorite candy shop. When it comes to pairing cherries with their perfect chocolate match, maraschinos are an excellent choice. Their flavor and size make them ideal for dipping into a pool of either dark or milk chocolate.
Of course, cherry cordials also offer a delicious option, but it’s worth noting that these typically feature an alcohol center, adding an adult twist to this beloved treat.
Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake
Indulge in the sweet treat of chocolate cherry ice cream cake during cherry season, as it’s a refreshing delight that packs a punch with its cherry and chocolate flavors. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! Simply spread store-bought softened ice cream over your box-mix cake for a seamless dessert experience. For added indulgence, combine the treat with store-bought cake mix, cherry ice cream, and drizzle some fudge on top for an unbeatable combination.
Cherry-Honey Blondies with Marcona Almonds
Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of this decadent recipe, featuring a delightful combination of fruits and nuts that will please even the most discerning palates. The blond brownies are elevated by the addition of dried cherries and almonds, which provide a satisfying crunch. For an added layer of sophistication, deep-fried Marcona almonds bring a unique mouthfeel that’s distinct from their roasted counterparts.
To add an extra dimension of flavor, substitute refined sugar with natural honey, resulting in a sweet taste with a depth of character that will leave you wanting more.
Chocolate-Cherry Snack Bars
For those seeking healthier alternatives without sacrificing sweetness, these cherry snack bars are an excellent option. Comprised of seeds, nuts, chocolate, and cherries, they provide a well-rounded snack that appeases even the most ardent sweet tooths. To elevate the flavor profile, consider adding a hint of lemon zest for a delightful contrast.
Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars
While white chocolate chips are a great addition to this simple recipe, you can also experiment with semi-sweet morsels for a different flavor profile. If you’re having trouble deciding which one to use, consider making two batches: one with white chocolate and the next with dark morsels. This way, you can enjoy both flavors without committing to just one. For an added twist, substitute brown sugar for white to give your cherry bars a rich caramel taste and a tender, moist texture.
Cherry Fluff
The Cherry Fluff salad stands out from the crowd by substituting traditional lettuce with a generous helping of whipped topping. This unconventional base sets the stage for a sweet and tangy medley of flavors, including crushed pineapple, milk, shredded coconut, marshmallows, and cherry pie filling. With no cooking required, this summer dessert is perfect for whipping up in a flash to delight your friends and family.
Simply combine all the ingredients, refrigerate for an hour, and you’ll be ready to serve your Cherry Fluff masterpiece.
Cherry Pie Bars
Indulge in the delightful combination of cherry pie filling and crumbly bars that require minimal effort yet yield maximum results. For those who prefer to take control of their baking process from start to finish, fresh or frozen fruit can be used to create a customized filling. These show-stopping treats are perfect for holiday gatherings and other special occasions due to their visually appealing appearance.
With their effortless preparation, you won’t mind shouldering the responsibility of providing dessert for your loved ones.
Cherry Pie Shortbread Cookies
Indulge in the sweet harmony of flavors and textures with these irresistible cherry desserts, where simplicity meets delight. The buttery shortbread cookie base serves as the perfect canvas for the luscious cherries to shine, while a delicate vanilla glaze adds an extra layer of indulgence after baking.
Easy Chocolate Cherry Trifle
Indulge in the richness of chocolate, pudding, whipped cream, and succulent cherries, layered to perfection in this decadent dessert. Not only is it an impressive treat for friends and family, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare – making it a genius way to use up leftover cake. In essence, trifle is a clever ruse to disguise the fact that you’re simply combining all your leftover ingredients until they look appealing.
As a finishing touch, top each serving with a plump, fresh cherry or two for an added burst of flavor and visual flair.
Quick & Easy Homemade Cherry Ice Cream
With this recipe, you won’t need any specialized equipment like an ice cream maker or churn. Instead, you’ll only require a few simple ingredients: frozen cherries, condensed milk, and whipped cream. One key step is to save the juice from the frozen cherries, as it will infuse your ice cream with extra flavor. The best part? You can enjoy this treat all year round, without having to wait for fresh cherries to be in season.
Cherry Galette
While it may not boast flashy presentation, the humble Cherry Galette is a culinary treasure that will delight your senses. The tartness of the succulent cherries perfectly complements the buttery, golden-brown crust, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. To elevate this simple yet satisfying dessert to new heights, consider serving it with a generous scoop of creamy ice cream or whipped cream, allowing the sweetness to mingle beautifully with the cherry’s natural tartness.
Sour Cherry Hand Pies
Indulge in the sweet and tangy delight of sour cherry hand pies, a new family favorite that’s sure to please. While these bite-sized treats are perfect for on-the-go snacking, don’t forget to pack a napkin to absorb the juicy burst from each tender cherry. The buttery crust provides a rich contrast to the tart cherries, while subtle additions like cherry cocktail bitters, whole vanilla bean extract, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can elevate the flavor profile to new heights.
Chewy Cherry Almond Bars
Combining cherry preserves, rolled oats, and sliced almonds yields a surprisingly delightful dessert bar combination. The interplay of flavors showcases the natural sweetness of the cherries, which takes center stage in this sweet treat. What’s more, this easy recipe makes an excellent addition to any Halloween-themed spread – simply substitute the cherries with orange preserves for a seasonal twist.
Cherry-Berry Streusel Pie
The allure of this cherry-berry pie lies not only in its delectable taste but also in its visually appealing presentation. The crust, too, boasts an intricate design that belies its ease of preparation. When combining your traditional cherry pie filling with a medley of frozen or fresh raspberries, the resulting flavor is nothing short of astonishing, a true masterclass in fruit fusion.
Cherry Limeade Popsicles
While kids are often enthusiastic about popsicles, adults can’t help but indulge in them either. The sweet and tangy flavor combination of cherry limeade is particularly popular among those who crave refreshing treats during the summer months. To create this unique and tasty popsicle recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients: dark cherries for their intense flavor, fresh lime juice to add a burst of citrus, and surprisingly, zucchini.
The humble vegetable plays a crucial role in binding the mixture together as it freezes, making it an essential component of this refreshing treat.
Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls
For those who are passionate about egg rolls, this recipe is a must-try. It’s a straightforward and uncomplicated process that won’t break the bank or require an extensive list of ingredients. In fact, you’ll only need a few key components to get started: cream cheese, cherry filling, and, of course, egg roll wrappers. These versatile sheets can typically be found in your local grocery store’s produce section, making it easy to add this tasty twist to your culinary repertoire.
Maraschino Cherry Cookies
While Maraschino cherries can be enjoyed throughout the year, their festive nature makes them an ideal choice for holiday treats like Christmas or Valentine’s Day cookies. The sweet surprise within these golden-brown treats is a delightful combination of juicy cherry and creamy cheese filling, making each cookie a delicious adventure.
Cherry Bounce
A relic from the colonial era, this forgotten beverage holds a special place in American history. Its demise is indeed a pity, as it once brought joy to many, including none other than George Washington himself. The drink, a harmonious blend of fresh cherries, sugar, spices, and brandy, was a beloved treat that has unfortunately fallen out of favor over time.
White Chocolate Cherry Fudge
When it comes to special occasions, this recipe is an ideal finger-food dessert option. Its simplicity and versatility make it perfect for holidays or any other celebration. The combination of dried cherries, white chocolate chips, and almond extract creates a delightful flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory. The tartness from the fruit pairs beautifully with the nutty taste imparted by the almond extract.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its gift-giving potential – make a batch, package individual pieces into gift boxes, and you’ll have thoughtful presents for any occasion.
Cherry Sauce
With cherry sauce, the possibilities are endless. This sweet and tangy condiment is not just limited to topping ice cream, cookies, or bars. Its versatility allows it to be used as a delicious accompaniment to yogurt, pancakes, or even as a filling for cakes and pastries. What’s more, this easy-to-make sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to seven days, making it a convenient addition to your dessert repertoire.
Cherry Mash Truffles
Indulge in the sweet nostalgia of cherry mash candy by reimagining it as delectable truffles. These treats offer a delightful twist on the classic confection, requiring minimal effort to prepare. To create these bite-sized wonders, combine cherry flavoring with peanuts for a satisfying crunch and texture. Then, immerse the centers in melted chocolate and allow them to cool before serving.
Sour Cherry Fruit Kolache
While traditional kolaches often feature savory fillings like meat and cheese, there’s no reason why they can’t be just as delightful when filled with sweet ingredients. Case in point: juicy cherries! The natural sweetness of the cherries pairs perfectly with the light, airy texture of the bread, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
And let’s not forget to add some poppy seeds to the mix – their subtle nutty flavor and satisfying crunch only serve to enhance the overall eating experience.
Cherry Custard Pie
The harmony between sweet pumpkin and creamy baked custard is undeniable. This effortless dessert recipe is a must-try, but it’s crucial to resist the urge to rush the baking process. A perfectly golden-brown crust requires patience, so be sure to let the pie reach its full potential before serving.
Black Forest Cake
Cherry desserts typically evoke images of a classic Black Forest cake. But what if I told you that this indulgent treat is actually more accessible to make than you might assume? The key lies in combining fresh cherries and cherry liqueur with whipped cream for a light and airy frosting, resulting in a decadent yet manageable dessert.
Bottom line
With an abundance of cherry dessert recipes available, it’s a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. What’s even more exciting is that these recipes are surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or looking to mix things up, grab a bowl of cherries and start baking your next favorite dessert. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try incorporating some other ruby red fruits into the mix?
If cherry isn’t your thing, don’t worry – we’ve also got 17 Can-Do Cranberry Desserts to save the day. For even more inspiration, check out our list of 34 Ways to Use Cherries in Dessert Recipes and find your new favorite treat.
Instructions
Discover the thrill of creating your own unique cherry desserts! With our diverse selection, you can mix and match flavors to craft an entirely new treat that suits your taste. Experiment with different presentation styles to add an extra layer of excitement. Ultimately, indulge in the joy of savoring a dessert that’s truly yours.
