18 Delicious Recipes for Cherries Sweet and Savory

Cherries aren’t just for pies—they’re the star of sweet and savory dishes that’ll make your taste buds sing! Whether you’re craving a juicy dessert, a tangy sauce, or a show-stopping salad, we’ve rounded up 18 irresistible recipes that celebrate this vibrant fruit. From quick weeknight wins to weekend showstoppers, get ready to fall in love with cherries all over again. Let’s dig in!

Cherry Clafoutis

This classic French dessert is like a cross between a custard and a pancake—simple to make but impossibly elegant, with juicy cherries nestled in a tender, lightly sweet batter.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted (or thawed frozen cherries)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for greasing)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch pie dish or cast-iron skillet with the butter.
2. In a blender, combine the milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth, about 15 seconds.
3. Add the flour and blend again just until incorporated, scraping down the sides if needed.
4. Scatter the cherries evenly in the prepared dish, then pour the batter over them.
5. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.

The magic of clafoutis? The cherries sink into the batter as it bakes, creating little pockets of jammy fruit in every bite.

Tip: For extra richness, swap half the milk for heavy cream—just don’t skip the powdered sugar finish for that bakery-worthy look!

Cherry Almond Tart

This elegant yet easy cherry almond tart is a showstopper with its buttery crust, sweet-tart cherry filling, and nutty almond frangipane—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp salt
• 3-4 tbsp ice water
• 1 cup pitted fresh or frozen cherries
• ½ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup softened unsalted butter
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp almond extract
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Make the crust: Pulse 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup cold butter, ¼ cup sugar, and ¼ tsp salt in a food processor until crumbly. Add 3-4 tbsp ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, until dough comes together. Press into a 9-inch tart pan and chill 30 minutes.
2. Pre-bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Line crust with parchment and pie weights, then bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights and bake 5 more minutes until pale gold. Cool slightly.
3. Prepare filling: Beat ¼ cup softened butter, ¼ cup sugar, and ½ cup almond flour until fluffy. Mix in 1 egg and ½ tsp almond extract. Spread over crust, then top with cherries and 2 tbsp sliced almonds.
4. Bake: Bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes until filling is set and golden. Cool before slicing.

The frangipane puffs around the cherries like a cozy blanket, balancing their tartness with toasty almond warmth. Tip: For extra shine, brush baked tart with warmed apricot jam while still warm.

Cherry Chocolate Brownies

These fudgy brownies are studded with tart cherries and melty chocolate chunks for a sweet-tart bite that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks
• ½ cup dried cherries, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, ¾ cup cocoa powder, and ½ tsp salt until smooth. Stir in 2 tsp vanilla extract.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Fold in flour until just combined (don’t overmix). Gently stir in chocolate chunks and dried cherries.
4. Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
5. Cool completely in the pan before slicing.

The cherries add a bright, chewy contrast to the rich chocolate, making these brownies feel extra special. Tip: For gooier brownies, underbake by 2–3 minutes—they’ll firm up as they cool!

Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken

This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a sweet-and-tangy showstopper that’s fancy enough for date night but easy enough for a weeknight.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup cherry preserves
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)

1. Season chicken breasts evenly with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F. Transfer to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup cherry preserves, 1 tbsp honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp thyme. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
4. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning glaze over it. Cook for 1–2 minutes to coat and rewarm.

The glossy glaze clings perfectly to the chicken, balancing rich balsamic with pops of fruity sweetness. Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze!

Cherry Vanilla Jam

This luscious cherry vanilla jam is like summer in a jar—sweet, tangy, and kissed with warm vanilla for a little extra magic.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups pitted and roughly chopped fresh cherries
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (or 1 tsp pure vanilla extract)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

Instructions:

1. In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean into the pot (or add vanilla extract) and toss in the pod for extra flavor.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the cherries release their juices, about 10 minutes.
3. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a lively simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens and reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer (or passes the spoon test: a dollop on a chilled plate should wrinkle when nudged), 20–25 minutes.
4. Remove the vanilla pod (if using) and let the jam cool slightly before transferring to jars. It’ll continue to thicken as it cools.

The vanilla bean adds a subtle depth that makes this jam feel extra special—perfect for swiping on biscuits or gifting in pretty jars.

Tip: For a smoother jam, pulse the cherries in a food processor before cooking, or smash them with a potato masher partway through simmering.

Cherry Cobbler

This cozy cherry cobbler is a no-fuss dessert that lets juicy fruit shine under a golden, buttery topping—perfect for summer gatherings or a weeknight treat.

Ingredients

• 4 cups pitted fresh or frozen cherries (thawed if frozen)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a bowl, toss cherries with 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla. Pour into a 9-inch pie dish.
2. In another bowl, whisk flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined.
3. Drop spoonfuls of batter over cherries (it will spread as it bakes). Bake 35–40 minutes until topping is golden and fruit bubbles at edges.

The magic here? The batter bakes into the cherries, creating pockets of jammy fruit and tender cake in every bite.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle the topping with coarse sugar before baking.

Cherry Smoothie Bowl

Cherry Smoothie Bowl

This vibrant cherry smoothie bowl is like dessert for breakfast—packed with antioxidants and creamy enough to eat with a spoon!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen dark cherries
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Toppings: 2 tbsp granola, 1 tbsp sliced almonds, fresh cherries (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the frozen cherries, frozen banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Blend on high until smooth and thick, scraping down the sides as needed.
2. Pour the mixture into a bowl and top with granola, sliced almonds, and fresh cherries if using.

The secret to this bowl’s luxe texture? Frozen fruit whips up thicker than fresh, making it spoonable instead of sipable.

Tip: For an extra protein boost, stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder before blending.

Cherry Salsa

This vibrant cherry salsa is a sweet-and-spicy twist on classic pico de gallo—perfect for scooping with chips or topping grilled chicken or fish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the cherries, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and honey, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Gently toss until evenly coated.
3. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

The juicy cherries balance the heat of the jalapeño beautifully, while the honey adds just enough sweetness to make this salsa addictive.

Tip: For a smoother texture, pulse half the salsa in a food processor before mixing it back in.

Cherry Cheesecake

This creamy cherry cheesecake is a dreamy dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet-tart cherry topping—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Mix 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and 6 tbsp melted butter until combined. Press firmly into a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Beat cream cheese, sour cream, and 3/4 cup sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 tsp vanilla.
3. Pour filling over crust. Bake for 45–50 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Cool completely, then chill for 4 hours.
4. Top with cherry pie filling before serving.

The contrast between the tangy cream cheese and vibrant cherries makes every bite irresistible—plus, the no-fuss crust comes together in minutes!

Tip: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it between cuts.

Cherry Compote

This sweet-tart cherry compote is a breeze to make and adds a burst of summer flavor to everything from pancakes to cheesecake.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes, until cherries soften and release their juices. Use a wooden spoon to gently mash some cherries for texture.
3. Stir in 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp almond extract (if using). Simmer for 2 more minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. The compote will thicken further as it cools.

The almond extract adds a subtle depth that makes this compote taste like cherry pie filling—but it’s ready in under 20 minutes!

Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend half the compote after cooling, then stir it back into the chunky portion.

Cherry Pie

Nothing beats the sweet-tart magic of a homemade cherry pie—juicy filling wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust that’s pure comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 6–8 tbsp ice water
• 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp turbinado sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups flour and 1 tsp salt. Cut in 1 cup butter until pea-sized crumbs form. Gradually add 6–8 tbsp ice water, mixing until dough just comes together. Divide in half, flatten into disks, and chill for 1 hour.
2. Prep the filling: In a saucepan, combine cherries, 1 cup sugar, 3 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp vanilla. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring, until thickened. Let cool slightly.
3. Assemble: Roll out one dough disk to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Add filling, then roll out the second disk and place over top. Crimp edges, cut vents, and brush with beaten egg. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp turbinado sugar if using.
4. Bake: At 375°F for 45–50 minutes until crust is golden and filling bubbles. Cool for 2 hours before slicing.

The secret? A splash of vanilla in the filling deepens the cherries’ flavor, while the turbinado sugar adds a subtle crunch to the crust.

Tip: Freeze cubed butter for 15 minutes before making the crust—it keeps the dough extra flaky!

Cherry Muffins

These cherry muffins are bursting with juicy fruit and a tender crumb—perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 tbsp turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease lightly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, milk, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir just until combined (a few lumps are okay). Gently fold in cherries.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Sprinkle each with turbinado sugar.
6. Bake for 20–22 minutes, until tops spring back when lightly pressed. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

The turbinado sugar adds a delightful crunch, while the cherries stay juicy—no dry muffins here!

Tip: If using frozen cherries, don’t thaw them first; toss in 1 tbsp flour to prevent sinking.

Cherry Ice Cream

This luscious cherry ice cream is bursting with sweet-tart flavor and has that dreamy, creamy texture you crave—no fancy equipment required!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, 3/4 cup sugar, and 1/8 tsp salt. Warm until steaming (do not boil), stirring to dissolve the sugar, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Chill mixture for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. While the base chills, toss the chopped cherries with 1 tbsp lemon juice in a bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes, then mash lightly with a fork to release juices.
3. Pour the chilled cream mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 20–25 minutes). During the last 5 minutes, add the cherries and their juices.
4. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 4 hours or until firm.

The lemon juice brightens the cherries just enough, while the vanilla adds a cozy depth—this scoop tastes like summer in a bowl!

Tip: For extra cherry swirls, reserve a few tablespoons of mashed cherries and fold them in after churning.

Cherry Salad with Goat Cheese

This vibrant cherry salad is a sweet-and-tangy showstopper, with creamy goat cheese and crunchy almonds balancing every bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed baby greens
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss the baby greens with the cherries, goat cheese, and toasted almonds.
2. In a small jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, ensuring each portion gets plenty of cherries and cheese.

The juicy cherries pop against the rich goat cheese, while the almonds add a buttery crunch—perfect for a light lunch or elegant side.

Tip: Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, shaking often, for deeper flavor.

Cherry BBQ Sauce

Sweet, tangy, and just a little smoky, this cherry BBQ sauce is a game-changer for grilled meats or even as a dipping sauce for fries.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 20–25 minutes, mashing the cherries with a spoon as they soften, until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. For a smoother texture, blend with an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender and pulse until desired consistency is reached. Let cool before using.

The deep fruitiness of the cherries balances perfectly with the smoky spices, making this sauce irresistible on ribs or chicken wings.

Tip: If using fresh cherries, toss in a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth!

Cherry Pancakes

These fluffy cherry pancakes are studded with juicy bursts of fruit, making them a sweet and vibrant breakfast treat. A dollop of whipped cream takes them over the top!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter, plus extra for cooking
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, 2 tbsp melted butter, and 1/2 tsp vanilla until smooth. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined (small lumps are okay). Gently fold in the cherries.
3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low and brush with butter. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook for 1–2 minutes more until golden.
4. Serve warm with extra cherries and whipped cream if desired.

The tart cherries balance the sweetness perfectly, and the tender crumb stays moist thanks to the buttermilk. Tip: For extra flavor, toss the cherries with 1 tsp sugar before folding them in—they’ll caramelize slightly as they cook!

Cherry Sorbet

This vibrant cherry sorbet is like summer in a bowl—bursting with sweet-tart flavor and so refreshing you’ll want to make double batches.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries (thawed if frozen)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional but divine)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water. Stir until sugar dissolves completely, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. In a blender, puree the cherries with the syrup, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/4 tsp almond extract until completely smooth.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a shallow dish, pressing with a spatula to remove any pulp (this ensures ultra-smooth texture).
4. Cover and freeze for 4 hours, stirring with a fork every hour to break up ice crystals, until firm but scoopable.

The almond extract deepens the cherry flavor beautifully, making this sorbet taste like an upscale dessert—even though it’s secretly fuss-free.

Tip: For a fun twist, swirl in 2 tbsp of chopped dark chocolate before the final freeze for cherry-chocolate chip vibes.

Cherry Stuffed Pork Tenderloin

This elegant yet easy-to-make dish combines juicy pork tenderloin with a sweet-tart cherry stuffing—perfect for impressing guests or elevating weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 (1.5 lb) pork tenderloin
• 1 cup dried cherries
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Prep the pork: Preheat oven to 375°F. Butterfly the tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise almost all the way through, then open it like a book. Cover with plastic wrap and pound gently to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
2. Make the filling: In a bowl, mix 1 cup dried cherries, 1/2 cup goat cheese, 1/4 cup pecans, and 1 tbsp thyme leaves. Spread evenly over the pork, leaving a 1-inch border.
3. Roll and tie: Roll the pork tightly from the long side, securing with kitchen twine every 2 inches. Rub with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
4. Roast: Place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

The contrast of tangy goat cheese and plump cherries against the savory pork creates a showstopping centerpiece—no one will guess it comes together in under an hour!

Tip: For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of balsamic vinegar after roasting and drizzle over the sliced pork.

Conclusion

From sweet treats to savory delights, these 18 cherry recipes offer something for every taste and occasion! Whether you’re baking a pie or whipping up a bold sauce, we hope you find a new favorite. Don’t forget to share your creations in the comments and pin this roundup for later—happy cooking!