18 Delicious Recipes Using Dried Cherries Perfect for Desserts

Dried cherries are the sweet-tart secret weapon your desserts have been missing! Whether you’re craving chewy cookies, decadent brownies, or showstopping tarts, these little gems add a burst of flavor and texture to every bite. From cozy classics to elegant treats, we’ve rounded up 18 irresistible recipes that’ll make you fall in love with dried cherries all over again. Ready to bake something delicious? Let’s dive in!

Chocolate Cherry Almond Bark

This irresistible bark combines rich dark chocolate, tart dried cherries, and crunchy almonds for a sweet-and-salty treat that’s ready in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60-70%), chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cherries, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup roasted almonds, roughly chopped
• 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1½ minutes total).
2. Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared sheet and spread into a thin, even layer (about ¼-inch thick) with a spatula.
3. Immediately sprinkle the dried cherries, almonds, and flaky sea salt evenly over the chocolate, gently pressing them in.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for 45 minutes until fully set, then break into rustic pieces.

The contrast of velvety chocolate, chewy cherries, and toasty almonds makes this bark feel gourmet—yet it’s foolproof to whip up for last-minute gifts or movie nights.

Tip: For extra depth, toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes before chopping.

Dried Cherry and Oatmeal Cookies

These chewy dried cherry and oatmeal cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart, with a hint of cinnamon for cozy warmth.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup dried cherries, chopped

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add 2 eggs and 1 tsp vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually stir into the butter mixture. Fold in 3 cups oats and 1 cup chopped dried cherries.
4. Drop 2-tbsp portions of dough onto prepared sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are golden but centers are still soft.
5. Let cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The dried cherries add a delightful jammy tang that cuts through the buttery oats, making these cookies irresistible warm or at room temperature.

Tip: For extra chew, slightly underbake the cookies by 1 minute—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Cherry Almond Granola Bars

These Cherry Almond Granola Bars are the perfect balance of chewy and crunchy, with tart cherries and nutty almonds stealing the show.

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
2. In a large bowl, mix oats, dried cherries, sliced almonds, and salt.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm almond butter, honey, coconut oil, and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth (about 2 minutes). Pour over the oat mixture and stir until fully coated.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, using the back of a spoon to compact it evenly.
5. Bake for 20 minutes until the edges turn golden. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing into bars.

The almond butter binds these bars without being overly sweet, while the dried cherries add a pop of brightness in every bite.

Tip: For extra crunch, toast the oats and almonds on a baking sheet at 325°F for 8 minutes before mixing.

Cherry Walnut Bread

This cozy, slightly sweet loaf is studded with tart cherries and crunchy walnuts—perfect for weekend baking or gifting to a neighbor.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried cherries
• ½ cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg, then stir in buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, mixing just until combined (a few lumps are okay). Fold in dried cherries and walnuts.
5. Transfer batter to the prepared pan. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

The contrast of juicy cherries and toasty walnuts makes every slice irresistible—especially when still slightly warm with a pat of butter.

Tip: For extra flavor, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes before chopping.

Cherry Vanilla Scones

These cherry vanilla scones are buttery, lightly sweet, and studded with juicy cherries—perfect for a lazy weekend brunch or afternoon treat.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup dried cherries (or frozen, thawed and patted dry)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus 1 tbsp for brushing
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gently fold in the cherries.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir just until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface, knead lightly, and pat into an 8-inch circle. Cut into 8 wedges, transfer to the baking sheet, and brush with the remaining 1 tbsp heavy cream. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden and firm to the touch. Cool slightly before serving.

The vanilla-infused dough lets the tart cherries shine, while the sugar crust adds a delightful crunch. Tip: For extra flavor, soak dried cherries in warm water (or orange juice!) for 10 minutes before using.

Dried Cherry Compote

This sweet-tart compote is a versatile topping that pairs beautifully with pancakes, yogurt, or even roasted meats—just a few pantry staples transform dried cherries into something special.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried cherries
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine dried cherries, water, orange juice, honey, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid thickens slightly and the cherries plump.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool for 5 minutes—the compote will continue to thicken as it rests.

The magic here? The orange juice brightens the cherries’ deep flavor, while a touch of vanilla adds warmth. It’s equally good drizzled over ice cream or folded into oatmeal.

Tip: For a boozy twist, swap the water with red wine or bourbon—just simmer a minute longer to cook off the alcohol.

Cherry Chocolate Chip Muffins

These tender, fruity muffins are studded with melty chocolate chips and bursts of juicy cherries—perfect for breakfast or an 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 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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 flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir just until combined (a few lumps are okay). Fold in cherries and chocolate chips.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 20–22 minutes, until tops spring back when lightly pressed.
6. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

The tart cherries balance the rich chocolate perfectly, while the muffin stays moist and fluffy—no dry crumbs here!

Tip: Toss frozen cherries in 1 tbsp flour before folding them in to prevent sinking.

Cherry Pistachio Biscotti

These twice-baked Italian cookies are studded with tart cherries and buttery pistachios—perfect for dunking in coffee or gifting in a pretty jar.

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
• 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together 1 3/4 cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, beat 1/2 cup butter and 3/4 cup sugar until fluffy. Add 2 eggs one at a time, then mix in 1 tsp vanilla.
4. Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet until just combined. Fold in 1/2 cup cherries and 1/2 cup pistachios.
5. Shape dough into a 12″x4″ log on the baking sheet. Bake 25 minutes until lightly golden. Cool 10 minutes.
6. Slice log diagonally into 1/2″-thick pieces. Lay slices cut-side down and bake 10 minutes per side until crisp.

The double bake gives these biscotti their signature crunch, while the cherry-pistachio duo adds pops of color and flavor in every bite.

Tip: For cleaner slices, use a serrated knife and gentle sawing motion after the first bake.

Cherry Coconut Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites are the perfect sweet-and-tangy snack, packed with chewy cherries and tropical coconut flavor—ready in just 15 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, shredded coconut, and chopped dried cherries until combined.
2. Add the almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until the mixture sticks together when pressed (if too dry, add 1 tsp more honey).
3. Roll into 12 tablespoon-sized balls, squeezing firmly to hold their shape.
4. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to set. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

The tart cherries and toasty coconut make these bites taste like a guilt-free dessert—ideal for stashing in your gym bag or lunchbox!

Tip: For extra coconut flavor, roll the finished bites in additional shredded coconut before chilling.

Cherry Almond Smoothie Bowl

This vibrant smoothie bowl tastes like dessert but packs a nutritious punch, thanks to antioxidant-rich cherries and creamy almond butter.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen dark sweet cherries
• 1 frozen banana, sliced
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp almond butter
• 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Toppings: 2 tbsp granola, 1 tbsp sliced almonds, fresh cherries (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine frozen cherries, banana, almond milk, almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend on high until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed (about 1–2 minutes).
2. Pour the thick smoothie into a bowl and top with granola, sliced almonds, and fresh cherries if using.

The contrast of the velvety smoothie base with crunchy toppings makes every spoonful satisfying—plus, that cherry-almond duo is downright dreamy.

Tip: For an extra-thick texture, freeze your banana overnight and let the smoothie sit in the fridge for 10 minutes before serving.

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls

These cherry cinnamon rolls are a sweet, fruity twist on the classic—bursting with tart cherries and warm cinnamon swirls, they’re perfect for lazy weekend brunches.

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, divided
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup pitted tart cherries (fresh or thawed frozen), chopped
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp milk

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk 2 cups flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warmed milk, melted butter, and egg; mix until sticky. Gradually add remaining ¾ cup flour until a soft dough forms. Knead 5 minutes, then cover and let rise 1 hour or until doubled.
2. Roll dough into a 12×9-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and cherries. Tightly roll into a log and slice into 9 rolls.
3. Arrange rolls in a greased 9-inch pan. Cover and let rise 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake 25 minutes until golden.
4. Whisk powdered sugar and milk to make a glaze; drizzle over warm rolls.

The juicy cherries add a bright tang that cuts through the rich cinnamon swirl—no one will resist a second bite!

Tip: For extra gooey rolls, spoon a tablespoon of cherry jam over the dough before adding the filling.

Dried Cherry and Dark Chocolate Tart

This dried cherry and dark chocolate tart is a showstopper with its rich, fudgy filling and tangy fruit contrast—perfect for when you want dessert to feel a little fancy but still approachable.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz dark chocolate (70%), finely chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cherries
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)

1. Make the crust: Pulse flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add butter and pulse until crumbs form. Add egg yolk and blend until dough clumps. Press into a 9-inch tart pan and freeze 15 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake crust for 20 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
3. Make the filling: Heat heavy cream until simmering. Pour over chocolate in a bowl; let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Stir in dried cherries. Pour into cooled crust and chill 2 hours until set.
4. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

The magic here? The cherries plump slightly in the warm ganache, giving every bite a jammy surprise. Tip: For cleaner slices, dip your knife in hot water before cutting.

Cherry Pecan Salad with Balsamic Dressing

This vibrant salad balances sweet cherries, crunchy pecans, and tangy balsamic dressing for a refreshing side or light meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 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 dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Let cool, then chop.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
3. In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens with the dressing until evenly coated.
4. Top the greens with cherries, toasted pecans, and feta cheese. Gently toss once more to combine.

The juicy cherries and creamy feta melt into the peppery greens, while the pecans add a buttery crunch—every bite is a perfect contrast.

Tip: For extra depth, reduce the balsamic vinegar by simmering 1/4 cup in a saucepan over low heat for 5–7 minutes until syrupy.

Cherry and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken

This elegant yet easy stuffed chicken combines sweet-tart cherries with creamy goat cheese for a dish that feels fancy but comes together in a flash.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup dried cherries, finely chopped
• 4 oz goat cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket horizontally into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2. In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup dried cherries, 4 oz goat cheese, 1 tbsp thyme, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Divide mixture evenly among chicken pockets, pressing to seal edges.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken for 3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer skillet to oven.
4. Bake for 15–18 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internally. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

The juicy cherries and tangy goat cheese melt into a luxurious filling that pairs perfectly with the simple seared chicken.

Tip: For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of balsamic vinegar after baking and drizzle over the chicken.

Cherry Rice Pilaf

This sweet and savory pilaf is a showstopper side dish, with plump cherries and toasted almonds adding pops of color and crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 ¼ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup dried cherries
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear. Drain well.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add rice, stirring to coat in oil, and toast for 2 minutes until lightly golden. Pour in broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat (keep covered) and let steam for 10 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork, then gently fold in dried cherries, toasted almonds, and parsley.

The tart cherries play off the nutty rice beautifully, while the almonds add a buttery crunch that makes every bite interesting.

Tip: For extra depth, swap half the broth for cherry juice or stir in a pinch of cinnamon with the salt.

Cherry and Almond Stuffed French Toast

This decadent stuffed French toast is like dessert for breakfast, with sweet cherries and nutty almond cream cheese oozing from every bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 thick slices of brioche or challah bread (1-inch thick)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp almond extract
• 1/3 cup cherry jam (or chopped fresh pitted cherries)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds, toasted (for garnish)
• Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and almond extract until smooth. Spread evenly on two slices of bread, then top with cherry jam. Sandwich with the remaining slices.
2. Whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Dip each stuffed sandwich into the mixture, letting it soak for 30 seconds per side.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the French toast for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.
4. Garnish with toasted almonds and drizzle with maple syrup. Serve immediately.

The contrast of warm, creamy filling with the crisp, custardy bread makes this feel extra indulgent—perfect for lazy weekend brunches.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle the almonds onto the French toast as soon as it comes off the skillet so they stick.

Cherry Yogurt Parfait

Layers of creamy yogurt, tart cherries, and crunchy granola make this parfait a breakfast (or dessert!) worth waking up for—no cooking required.

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup frozen dark cherries, thawed and chopped
• 1/2 cup granola
• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp honey, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In a tall glass or jar, layer half the yogurt mixture, followed by half the chopped cherries and half the granola. Repeat layers.
3. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if using, and serve immediately.

The contrast of cool yogurt, juicy cherries, and crisp granola makes every bite a mini celebration of textures. For a fun twist, swap the cherries for mixed berries in summer!

Tip: If prepping ahead, store granola separately and add just before serving to keep it crunchy.

Cherry and White Chocolate Blondies

These chewy blondies are studded with tart dried cherries and creamy white chocolate—a sweet-tart combo that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together melted butter and 1 cup brown sugar until smooth. Beat in 1 egg and 1 tsp vanilla.
3. Add 1 cup flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt, stirring just until combined. Fold in dried cherries and white chocolate chips.
4. Spread batter evenly into the pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes until edges are golden but the center is slightly soft.
5. Cool completely before slicing into squares.

The contrast of tangy cherries and sweet white chocolate makes these blondies pop—perfect for gifting or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Tip: For extra gooeyness, underbake by 1–2 minutes and let them set as they cool.

Conclusion

With so many sweet and creative ways to use dried cherries, this roundup is your go-to for irresistible desserts! Whether you’re baking a cozy crisp or whipping up elegant truffles, there’s something here for every craving. Give these recipes a try, then let us know which one stole your heart—and don’t forget to share the love on Pinterest! Happy baking!