7 Must-Try Cherry Dessert Recipes for a Taste of Summer

Introduction

As the sun starts to shine brighter and the temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like indulging in the sweet and tangy flavors of cherry desserts. Whether you’ve just picked cherries straight from the tree or grabbed a handful from the local market, there are countless ways to incorporate this delicious fruit into your summer treats. From pies to tarts, crisps to ice creams, cherries can elevate any dessert to a whole new level. In this article, we’ll explore seven must-try cherry dessert recipes that are perfect for enjoying a taste of summer.

1. Cherry Pie

Ingredients:
– 4 cups pitted cherries
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract.
3. Roll out one of the pie crusts and place it in a pie dish.
4. Pour the cherry mixture into the pie crust and dot with butter.
5. Place the remaining pie crust on top, crimp the edges, and cut slits in the top crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
7. Let the pie cool before serving.

2. Cherry Crisp

Ingredients:
– 4 cups pitted cherries
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, and flour. Pour into a baking dish.
3. In another bowl, mix together the oats, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the cherry mixture.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

3. Cherry Cheesecake

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 24 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 3 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 can cherry pie filling

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set.
6. Let the cheesecake cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
7. Top with cherry pie filling before serving.

4. Cherry Clafoutis

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups pitted cherries

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Coat a baking dish with butter and sprinkle with sugar.
3. In a blender, mix the flour, sugar, salt, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour a thin layer of batter into the baking dish and bake for 10 minutes.
5. Add the cherries to the dish and pour the remaining batter on top.
6. Bake for another 45-50 minutes, or until the clafoutis is set.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

5. Cherry Almond Tart

Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 2 cups pitted cherries

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and place it on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix the almond flour, sugar, butter, and almond extract.
4. Spread the almond mixture over the puff pastry, leaving a border.
5. Arrange the cherries on top of the almond mixture.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry over the cherries.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

6. Cherry Sorbet

Ingredients:
– 4 cups pitted cherries
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the cherries, water, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Blend the mixture until smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the pulp.
4. Stir in the lemon juice.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
6. Churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze until firm before serving.

7. Chocolate Covered Cherries

Ingredients:
– 24 pitted cherries
– 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a double boiler, melt the chocolate and butter until smooth.
3. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Dip each cherry into the chocolate mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place the coated cherries on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate until the chocolate is set.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I use frozen cherries in these recipes?
Yes, you can substitute frozen cherries for fresh ones in most recipes. Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly before using.

2. How can I easily pit cherries for these recipes?
You can use a cherry pitter tool to easily remove the pits from cherries. Alternatively, you can cut them in half and carefully remove the pits with a knife.

3. Are these recipes suitable for people with nut allergies?
Some of the recipes contain nuts or nut extracts, so it’s important to check the ingredients and make appropriate substitutions if needed.

4. Can I use a different type of fruit in place of cherries?
While these recipes are tailored for cherries, you can certainly experiment with other fruits like berries or peaches for a different flavor profile.

5. How long do these cherry desserts last?
Most of these desserts can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

These seven cherry dessert recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and bring a taste of summer to your table. Whether you prefer the classic cherry pie or want to try something more adventurous like cherry clafoutis, there’s a recipe here for everyone. So why not make the most of cherry season and treat yourself to these delicious and fruity delights? Enjoy the flavors of summer with these mouthwatering cherry desserts!