When it comes to adding natural sweetness and a pop of color to your dishes, dried cherries are an excellent choice. With their rich flavor profile and versatility, they can be used in both sweet and savory recipes. From breakfast treats to dinner entrees, and even desserts, dried cherries bring a depth of flavor that’s hard to match. In this article, we’ll explore 19 delicious dried cherry recipes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
From classic combinations like dried cherry and almond granola to innovative pairings such as dried cherry and goat cheese tart, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. Whether you’re a sweet tooth or a savory fan, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Dried Cherry and Almond Granola
This homemade granola combines the natural sweetness of dried cherries with the crunch of toasted almonds, perfect for snacking or as a topping for your favorite yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, and pecans)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Fold in dried cherries.
6. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Dried Cherry Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of chocolate with the tartness of dried cherries, creating a delightful flavor combination that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by chocolate chips and dried cherries.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dried Cherry and Walnut Bread
A sweet and nutty bread filled with dried cherries and crunchy walnuts, perfect for a snack or toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped cherries and walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Dried Cherry Compote over Vanilla Ice Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this simple yet elegant recipe combining sweet dried cherries and creamy vanilla ice cream. This compote is perfect for topping ice cream, yogurt, or even using as a cake topper.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cherries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine dried cherries, sugar, water, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt (if using). Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled compote over scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (compote preparation)
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
– You can also add a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Cognac for added depth.
– This compote keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, so feel free to make ahead!
Dried Cherry and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the sweet and savory combination of dried cherries and creamy brie.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, buttered side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a layer of brie cheese, followed by a sprinkle of chopped dried cherries.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Dried Cherry and Pecan Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
A sweet and tangy salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the chewiness of dried cherries with the crunch of pecans and the richness of balsamic vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cherries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cherries, and chopped pecans.
2. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, tossing to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dried Cherry and Dark Chocolate Bark
This sweet and tangy treat combines the chewiness of dried cherries with the richness of dark chocolate, perfect for a quick dessert or snack. With just a few ingredients, you can create this elegant-looking bark in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as coconut oil or vegetable shortening)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the shortening until fully incorporated.
4. Fold in the dried cherries.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Allow the bark to set at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
7. Break into pieces and garnish with chopped nuts or sea salt, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe doesn’t require cooking. The chocolate sets by itself.
Dried Cherry and Oatmeal Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are packed with the natural sweetness of dried cherries and the nutty goodness of rolled oats. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chopped dried cherries.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dried Cherry and Rosemary Focaccia
Elevate your snack game with this unique focaccia recipe, combining the sweetness of dried cherries with the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a accompaniment to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Coarse sea salt, for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle chopped dried cherries and rosemary evenly over the dough.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven, sprinkle with coarse sea salt, and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dried Cherry and Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with the sweet and savory combination of dried cherries and crisp apple, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields tender and flavorful pork chops packed with fruity goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together dried cherries, diced apples, honey, and mustard.
3. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pork chop with the cherry-apple mixture, dividing it evenly among the four chops.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed pork chops and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dried Cherry and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory combination of dried cherries, tangy goat cheese, and flaky pastry makes for a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese, dried cherries, honey, and vanilla extract. Spread mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Brush with a little water and sprinkle with salt.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dried Cherry and Spinach Quiche
This quiche combines the sweetness of dried cherries with the earthiness of spinach, perfect for a brunch or breakfast gathering. The addition of goat cheese adds a tangy element, balancing out the flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Add chopped spinach, dried cherries, and goat cheese to the egg mixture; stir until combined.
5. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dried Cherry and Chocolate Chip Scones
These buttery scones are packed with the sweet flavors of dried cherries and dark chocolate chips, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or afternoon indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (semi-sweet or bittersweet)
– 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in chopped dried cherries and dark chocolate chips.
5. Pour in beaten egg and stir until dough forms.
6. Pat dough onto prepared baking sheet into a 1-inch thick circle.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dried Cherry and Cinnamon Rolls
A sweet and savory twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, these treats combine the warmth of cinnamon with the fruity sweetness of dried cherries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, warm
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add warm milk and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Sprinkle with chopped cherries and cinnamon.
6. Roll up the dough tightly; cut into 12 equal pieces. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dried Cherry and Hazelnut Biscotti
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these crunchy, flavorful biscotti infused with the sweetness of dried cherries and the richness of hazelnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, chopped cherries, hazelnuts, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long.
5. Place logs on prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces and bake again for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dried Cherry and Orange Glazed Ham
Sweeten up your holiday gatherings with this show-stopping Dried Cherry and Orange Glazed Ham. A perfect combination of flavors, this glazed ham is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup dried cherries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine dried cherries, orange marmalade, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the glaze thickens slightly.
4. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure it’s fully coated.
6. Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Dried Cherry and Wild Rice Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines the natural sweetness of dried cherries with the earthy flavor of wild rice, perfect for a comforting side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
3. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and wild rice to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff pilaf with a fork and stir in chopped dried cherries. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Dried Cherry and Coconut Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats are packed with nutrients and will give you a boost of energy to tackle your day. Made with dried cherries, coconut flakes, and rolled oats, these no-bake energy balls are easy to make and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, dried cherries, and shredded coconut.
2. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into 12-15 energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Dried Cherry and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and flavorful panna cotta infused with the sweetness of dried cherries and the warmth of vanilla bean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard the solids.
4. Stir in chopped dried cherries.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping time) + chilling time
Conclusion
Discover the versatility of dried cherries with these 19 delicious recipes that blend sweet and savory flavors. From granola to cookies, breads to tarts, and even grilled cheese sandwiches, dried cherries add a burst of flavor and nutrition to any dish. Try making Dried Cherry and Almond Granola or Chocolate Dried Cherry Cookies for a sweet treat, or use them in savory dishes like Dried Cherry and Walnut Bread or Dried Cherry and Brie Grilled Cheese. Whether you’re looking for a dessert, snack, or main course, there’s something for everyone on this list of mouth-watering recipes.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
