9 Easy Cherry Dessert Recipes: Sweet & Simple Treats

Craving something sweet, vibrant, and utterly delicious? Look no further than the versatile cherry! Whether you have a bounty of fresh summer cherries, a stash of frozen gems, or a convenient can of pie filling, there’s a perfect cherry dessert waiting to be made. From timeless classics to surprisingly simple treats, the unique balance of sweet and tart flavors in cherries makes them a star ingredient.

Many home bakers wonder how to best use different types of cherries or worry about tackling seemingly complex recipes like pies or cakes. Finding truly easy cherry desserts that still deliver big flavor can also feel like a challenge, especially when short on time.

Cherry desserts offer a delightful spectrum of options, ranging from comforting classics like rich cherry pie and rustic cherry cobbler to effortless no-bake cheesecakes and sophisticated delights such as Cherries Jubilee or homemade cherry ice cream. This versatility ensures there’s a perfect cherry treat for every skill level and occasion.

Ready to explore the wonderful world of cherry desserts? We’ve gathered a collection of incredible recipes, covering everything from Grandma’s favorites to modern twists. You’ll discover tips for working with fresh, frozen, and canned cherries, learn the secrets behind iconic desserts, and find simple recipes perfect for weeknights or beginners. Get ready to bake (or not bake!) your way to cherry bliss!

Key Facts:
* Variety Matters: Cherries come in two main types: sweet (like Bing or Rainier), often eaten fresh, and sour/tart (like Montmorency), typically preferred for baking as they hold their shape and provide a tangy counterpoint to sugar.
* Cherry Pie Popularity: Cherry pie is consistently ranked as one of America’s favorite pies, celebrated for its vibrant color and classic sweet-tart flavor profile.
* Cobbler vs. Crisp vs. Crumble: While often used interchangeably, a cobbler typically has a biscuit or batter topping, a crisp features an oat-based streusel topping, and a crumble uses a streusel topping without oats.
* Black Forest Cake Origins: Black Forest Gateau (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) originated in Germany and traditionally features layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, cherries, and Kirschwasser (a cherry spirit).
* Nutritional Boost: Cherries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins (which give them their red color), vitamin C, and potassium, offering health benefits alongside their delicious taste.

Classic Cherry Desserts

These are the timeless cherry treats that evoke nostalgia and comfort. They often feature baked elements and showcase the pure flavor of cherries in traditional preparations.

How Do You Make an Easy Cherry Cobbler Recipe (with Fresh or Frozen Cherries)?

Making an easy cherry cobbler involves creating a simple cherry filling (using fresh or frozen cherries tossed with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice) topped with a basic batter or biscuit dough before baking until golden and bubbly. It’s a rustic, forgiving dessert perfect for showcasing cherries.

Start by preparing your cherry filling. If using fresh cherries, pit them first. Frozen cherries can often be used directly or after a quick thaw, as noted in recipes like the Sweet Dark Cherry Cobbler which utilizes thawed frozen sweet dark cherries. Toss the cherries with sugar (adjust based on cherry sweetness), a thickener like cornstarch or flour, and often a splash of lemon juice or extract (like almond or vanilla) for brightness. Pour this mixture into a baking dish.

For the topping, you can whisk together a simple batter (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, melted butter) and pour it over the cherries, or make a drop biscuit dough (similar ingredients but less liquid, sometimes using cold butter cut into the flour) and dollop it on top. Bake in a preheated oven (usually around 375-400°F or 190-200°C) for 30-45 minutes, until the filling is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.

• Simple Cherry Cobbler with Canned Cherries: For ultimate convenience, substitute two cans of cherry pie filling for the fresh/frozen cherry mixture. You may want to reduce the sugar in the topping slightly, as canned filling is often quite sweet. Proceed with the topping and baking instructions as usual.
• Cherry Cobbler Pioneer Woman Variation: Many popular variations, like those inspired by the Pioneer Woman, might include unique topping ingredients (like adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar) or slightly different filling components, but the core method of fruit topped with a baked dough remains the same.

What Goes into a Homemade Cherry Pie Recipe?

A homemade cherry pie consists of a flaky pie crust filled with a sweet-tart cherry filling, typically made from fresh or frozen cherries cooked with sugar, a thickener (like cornstarch, tapioca, or flour), and flavorings like lemon juice or almond extract.

The crust is crucial. You can use a store-bought crust for ease, but a homemade all-butter or shortening-based crust provides superior flavor and texture. You’ll need enough dough for a bottom crust and a top crust (either solid or lattice).

The filling is the heart of the pie. Combine pitted fresh or frozen sour cherries (preferred for baking) with sugar, your chosen thickener, and flavor enhancers. Some recipes involve pre-cooking the filling slightly on the stovetop to ensure it thickens properly, while others mix everything and pour it directly into the crust.

Assemble the pie by lining a pie plate with the bottom crust, adding the filling, and then placing the top crust. Crimp the edges, cut vents in a solid top crust, and often brush with an egg wash or milk and sprinkle with sugar for a golden, shiny finish. Bake until the crust is deeply golden and the filling is bubbling thickly (usually around 400°F initially, then reduced).

• Lattice Top Cherry Pie: Instead of a solid top crust, cut the dough into strips and weave them over the filling for a classic lattice look. This allows steam to escape easily.
• Cherry Pie Filling Variations (canned vs. fresh): While fresh or frozen sour cherries offer the best flavor balance, you can use canned cherry pie filling. However, the result will generally be sweeter and less complex. If using canned filling, consider adding lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavor. Using sweet fresh cherries is also possible, but you’ll need significantly less sugar and potentially more thickener and lemon juice.

How is Black Forest Cake Made from Scratch?

Making Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) from scratch involves layering rich chocolate sponge cake with sweetened whipped cream, tart cherries (often soaked in Kirschwasser, a cherry brandy), and decorating with more cream, chocolate shavings, and whole cherries.

First, bake the chocolate sponge cake layers. These are typically lighter and drier than American-style chocolate cakes, designed to soak up moisture. Genoise or a similar sponge is common. Once cooled, the layers are often brushed or drizzled with Kirschwasser (Kirsch) mixed with simple syrup for authentic flavor and moisture.

Next, prepare the components: Whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Prepare the cherry filling – this might involve simmering jarred sour cherries (like Morellos) with their juice, sugar, cornstarch, and a generous splash of Kirsch.

Assemble the cake layer by layer: Place one cake layer on a plate, spread with Kirsch syrup, top with a layer of whipped cream, then a layer of the cherry filling. Repeat with the remaining layers. Frost the entire outside of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. Finally, decorate traditionally by pressing chocolate shavings onto the sides and piping rosettes of whipped cream on top, each garnished with a cherry.

• Black Forest Gateau: A Simplified Version: For an easier approach, use a good quality chocolate cake mix for the layers. You can use canned cherry pie filling doctored up with a little Kirsch or cherry extract instead of making the filling from scratch. Focus on making excellent stabilized whipped cream. Zoë Bakes offers a version described as having “all of the components of the classic German torte without the fuss.”
• Using Kirsch in Black Forest Cake: Kirschwasser is key to the traditional flavor. It’s used to soak the cake layers and often added to the cherry filling and sometimes the whipped cream. If avoiding alcohol, you can substitute cherry juice or a non-alcoholic cherry syrup, though the characteristic flavor will be different.

What Exactly is Cherry Clafoutis, the French Classic?

Cherry Clafoutis is a rustic French dessert where fresh cherries are baked in a thick, rich, pancake-like batter, resulting in a custardy, flan-like texture studded with fruit. It’s known for its simplicity and elegance.

Traditionally, the cherries (often unpitted, as the pits are said to impart a subtle almond flavor, though pitting is common outside France for convenience) are arranged in a buttered baking dish (like a pie plate or cast-iron skillet).

A simple batter is made by whisking together eggs, sugar, flour, milk (or cream, or a mix), melted butter, and flavorings like vanilla or almond extract. This smooth batter is poured directly over the cherries in the dish.

The clafoutis is baked in a moderate oven (around 350-375°F or 180-190°C) until it’s puffed, golden brown around the edges, and mostly set in the center (it should still have a slight wobble). It’s typically served warm, often dusted with powdered sugar.

• Easy Cherry Clafoutis Recipe for Beginners: The beauty of clafoutis is its ease. There’s no crust to make, just arranging fruit and pouring over a quick batter. Focus on using good quality fresh cherries (sweet or sour work, adjust sugar accordingly) and not overbaking it to maintain a tender, custardy interior.

Simple Cherry Desserts with Canned Cherries

When time is short or fresh cherries aren’t available, canned cherry pie filling comes to the rescue! These recipes are incredibly easy and rely on pantry staples.

Why is Cherry Dump Cake Considered the Easiest Cherry Dessert?

Cherry dump cake earns its “easiest” title because it requires minimal mixing and layering; you literally “dump” the ingredients – typically canned cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple (optional), cake mix, and melted butter – into a pan before baking.

There’s no separate bowl for mixing batter. You start by spreading the canned cherry pie filling (often two cans) evenly in the bottom of a baking dish (usually a 9×13 inch pan). Sometimes a layer of crushed pineapple is added over the cherries.

Next, sprinkle a box of dry cake mix (yellow or white is common) evenly over the fruit layer. Do not prepare the cake mix according to box directions. Finally, drizzle melted butter (or arrange thin pats of cold butter) all over the surface of the dry cake mix. As it bakes, the butter melts down, combining with the cake mix and fruit juices to create a moist, cakey layer with a slightly crisp, buttery topping. Bake until golden brown and bubbly.

• Variations on Cherry Dump Cake (Cake Mix Options): While yellow cake mix is classic, you can experiment! Try chocolate cake mix for a Black Forest vibe, spice cake mix for warmth, or even lemon cake mix for a brighter flavor. Adding chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) or shredded coconut to the topping before baking adds extra texture and flavor.

How Do You Make No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake?

A no-bake cherry cheesecake involves creating a simple graham cracker or cookie crumb crust, filling it with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and whipped topping (or whipped cream), chilling it until firm, and then topping it with canned cherry pie filling.

First, prepare the crust. Crush graham crackers (or cookies like vanilla wafers or shortbread) finely and mix with melted butter and sometimes a little sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a pie plate or springform pan. Chill the crust while you make the filling.

For the filling, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in sugar (powdered sugar dissolves easily) and vanilla extract. Gently fold in thawed whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or freshly whipped heavy cream until well combined and fluffy. Spread this creamy filling evenly over the chilled crust.

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, until the filling is completely firm. Just before serving, carefully spoon canned cherry pie filling over the top.

• Mini Cherry Cheesecakes: Prepare the crust and filling as above, but divide the crust mixture among muffin cups lined with paper liners. Top with the filling and chill. Spoon cherry topping onto each mini cheesecake before serving. Perfect for individual portions!
• Cherry Cheesecake Bars: Prepare the crust and filling in a square baking pan (like 8×8 or 9×9 inch). Chill until firm, then spread the cherry topping over the entire surface. Cut into bars for serving.

Unique and Creative Cherry Desserts

Ready to move beyond the classics? These cherry desserts offer unique flavors, textures, and presentations.

What’s the Best Way to Make Chocolate Covered Cherries?

The best way involves using good quality fresh cherries with stems (like Bing or Rainier), dipping them in melted, tempered chocolate (dark, milk, or white), and letting them set completely on parchment paper. Tempering the chocolate ensures a glossy finish and a satisfying snap.

Start with clean, dry, stemmed cherries. Pat them thoroughly dry, as any moisture can cause the chocolate to seize. Melt your chosen chocolate gently – using a double boiler or microwave on low power in short bursts, stirring frequently. For the best results (shiny, not sticky), temper the chocolate. This involves carefully heating and cooling the chocolate to specific temperatures to stabilize the cocoa butter crystals. (Quick tempering methods exist, or use melting wafers designed for easy dipping).

Hold each cherry by the stem and dip it into the melted, tempered chocolate, swirling to coat it almost completely, leaving a little red showing near the stem. Lift the cherry out, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place the chocolate-covered cherry on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Repeat with the remaining cherries.

Let the chocolate set completely. This can happen at cool room temperature (if properly tempered) or you can speed it up slightly in the refrigerator (but avoid prolonged chilling which can cause condensation).

• Different Types of Chocolate for Dipping:
  • Dark Chocolate (Semi-sweet or Bittersweet): Offers a classic, intense flavor contrast to the sweet cherry.
  • Milk Chocolate: Provides a sweeter, creamier coating.
  • White Chocolate: Creates a visually striking dessert with a sweet, vanilla-like flavor. Ensure you use real white chocolate containing cocoa butter.

How Can You Make Homemade Cherry Ice Cream?

Homemade cherry ice cream typically involves making a custard base (custard-style) or a simpler Philadelphia-style base (cream, sugar, milk), chilling it thoroughly, churning it in an ice cream maker, and folding in chopped fresh or roasted cherries towards the end of churning.

Custard Style: Heat milk and/or cream. Whisk egg yolks with sugar. Temper the hot milk into the yolks, then return the mixture to the saucepan and cook gently until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (don’t boil). Strain and chill this custard base completely (at least 4 hours or overnight).

Philadelphia Style: Simply whisk together heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla until the sugar dissolves. Chill thoroughly.

Adding Cherries: Pit and chop fresh sweet cherries. You can add them raw for bright flavor, or roast them first (toss with a little sugar and roast at 400°F/200°C until softened and juices release) for a deeper, jammy flavor. Ensure cherries and any juices are well-chilled before adding.

Churning: Pour the chilled base into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. During the last few minutes of churning, when the ice cream looks like soft-serve, add the chopped cherries (and any accumulated juices). Churn just long enough to incorporate them evenly. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze until firm (at least 2-4 hours).

• Roasted Cherry Ice Cream: Roasting cherries before adding concentrates their flavor and sweetness, creating a richer ice cream.
• Cherry Sorbet: A Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free treat, make a sorbet. Blend fresh or frozen pitted cherries with sugar (or simple syrup) and lemon juice until smooth. Chill the mixture thoroughly, then churn in an ice cream maker.

What is Cherries Jubilee and How is it Made?

Cherries Jubilee is a classic dessert where cherries are poached in a syrup, often flavored with orange zest or liqueur, and then dramatically flambéed with warm brandy or Kirsch before being served warm, typically over vanilla ice cream.

First, prepare the cherry sauce. Simmer pitted dark sweet cherries (fresh or canned/jarred, drained) in a saucepan or chafing dish with sugar, water or cherry juice, and sometimes a thickener like cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker sauce. Flavorings like orange zest, lemon juice, or a dash of cinnamon can be added. Cook until the cherries are tender and the sauce has slightly thickened.

The crucial step is the flambé. Gently warm some brandy or Kirsch (do NOT boil it). Carefully, remove the cherry sauce from the direct heat source. Pour the warm liqueur over the cherries and immediately ignite it with a long match or lighter. Safety is paramount: Stand back, keep flammable materials away, and let the flames burn out naturally (usually takes less than a minute) as the alcohol burns off, leaving its flavor behind.

Serve the warm Cherries Jubilee sauce immediately over scoops of vanilla ice cream.

• How to Safely Flambé Cherries:
  • Use a long match or lighter: Keep your hands and face away.
  • Warm the alcohol gently: Do not overheat or boil.
  • Remove pan from heat: Never add alcohol or ignite over an active flame.
  • Pour, then ignite: Don’t ignite the alcohol while pouring.
  • Have a lid ready: In the unlikely event the flames don’t subside, cover the pan tightly with its lid to cut off oxygen.
  • Work in a clear area: Ensure no flammable items (curtains, paper towels) are nearby.

What’s the Difference Between Cherry Crumble and Cherry Crisp?

The main difference lies in the topping: a cherry crumble features a streusel topping made from flour, sugar, and butter, while a cherry crisp includes oats in the streusel topping, giving it a crispier, heartier texture.

Both desserts start with a similar base: a cherry filling, much like that used in a cobbler or pie (cherries, sugar, thickener, flavorings), placed in a baking dish.

The Crumble Topping is made by mixing flour, sugar (white and/or brown), and cold butter (cut in using a pastry blender, forks, or your fingers) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg are often added. This mixture is sprinkled evenly over the fruit before baking.

The Crisp Topping starts with the same base ingredients as a crumble (flour, sugar, butter) but adds rolled oats to the mix. This oat-inclusive topping results in a slightly chewier, more textured, and arguably “crispier” finish once baked.

Both are baked until the fruit filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and delicious. They are essentially variations on the theme of baked fruit with a crumbly topping.

Cherry Dessert FAQs

Got more questions about making delicious cherry treats? We’ve got answers!

What are some other cherry desserts?

Beyond the classics and simple options, other popular cherry desserts include cherry turnovers, cherry muffins or scones, cherry bread pudding, cherry Danish pastries, cherry tarts, cherry galettes (free-form pies), and desserts incorporating cherry liqueur like Kirsch. You can also find cherries featured in parfaits, trifles, and paired with other fruits in mixed fruit desserts.

What to make with lots of cherries? (Beyond Desserts)

If you have an abundance of cherries, consider making cherry jam or preserves, cherry sauce for savory dishes (like pork or duck), pickling cherries, infusing vodka or vinegar with cherries, or simply freezing them for later use in smoothies or baked goods. Drying cherries is another excellent way to preserve them for snacking or adding to granola and trail mix.

• Cherry Jam: Cook pitted cherries with sugar and pectin (optional, depending on desired set) until thickened. Process in sterilized jars for long-term storage.
• Cherry Preserves: Similar to jam, but often uses whole or halved cherries for a chunkier texture.

What is Cherry Jubilee made of?

Cherry Jubilee is primarily made of dark sweet cherries poached in a syrup (sugar, water/juice), often flavored with citrus zest or liqueur, and then dramatically flambéed tableside with warm brandy or Kirsch, served hot over vanilla ice cream. The core components are cherries, sugar, liqueur for flambéing, and ice cream.

What is cherry dump cake?

Cherry dump cake is an incredibly easy dessert made by layering canned cherry pie filling (and sometimes crushed pineapple) in a baking dish, topping it with dry cake mix straight from the box, and then drizzling melted butter over everything before baking. It requires minimal effort and no mixing bowls.

Tips for Working with Cherries

Get the most out of your cherries with these handy tips.

How Do You Pit Cherries Quickly and Easily?

Using a dedicated cherry pitter is the fastest method. You can also use household items like a sturdy straw, a chopstick, or the tip of a piping nozzle. Place the cherry on the opening of a narrow bottle (like a beer bottle), stem-side up (stem removed). Push the straw/chopstick/piping tip through the stem end to force the pit out into the bottle below. This contains the mess. For large quantities, investing in a multi-cherry pitter can save significant time.

How Should You Store Fresh Cherries?

Store fresh cherries unwashed in the coldest part of your refrigerator, preferably in a breathable bag or container (like the one they came in or a loosely covered bowl). Do not wash them until just before you plan to eat or use them, as moisture encourages spoilage. Stored properly, fresh cherries can last for up to a week, sometimes longer depending on freshness.

Can You Use Frozen Cherries in Desserts?

Yes, frozen cherries work beautifully in most baked cherry desserts like pies, cobblers, crisps, cakes, and muffins. Often, you can use them directly from the freezer or after a brief thaw, though you might need to adjust baking time slightly or add a bit more thickener, as frozen fruit can release more liquid. For recipes where texture is critical (like clafoutis), thawing and draining might be recommended. Check your specific recipe for guidance.

What’s the Difference Between Sweet Cherries vs. Sour Cherries in Desserts?

Sweet cherries (like Bing, Lambert, Rainier) are best for eating fresh but can be used in desserts, requiring less added sugar. They have a milder flavor. Sour cherries (like Montmorency, Morello) are tarter, hold their shape better when cooked, and provide a more intense, classic “cherry pie” flavor preferred for baking. They require more sugar to balance their tartness. If substituting, adjust sugar levels accordingly – use less sugar with sweet cherries, more with sour. Sour cherries are often harder to find fresh and are commonly available frozen or canned.

Cherry Dessert Recipes for Every Occasion

Cherries fit beautifully into menus for various events.

What are Good Cherry Desserts for Summer BBQs?

For summer BBQs, opt for easy-to-serve, often chilled or room-temperature desserts like cherry crumble bars, no-bake cherry cheesecake, cherry dump cake (can be served warm or room temp), or mini cherry pies/tarts. Fresh cherry salads or simple bowls of chocolate-covered cherries are also great, lighter options.

Which Cherry Desserts Work Well for Holidays?

Holidays call for showstoppers! Consider a classic homemade Cherry Pie with a lattice crust, an impressive Black Forest Cake, elegant Cherries Jubilee served over ice cream, or festive Cherry Clafoutis dusted with powdered sugar. Mini cherry cheesecakes also make for beautiful individual desserts on a holiday buffet.

Are There Easy Cherry Desserts for Kids to Make?

Absolutely! Cherry Dump Cake is incredibly kid-friendly due to the simple layering. Making no-bake cherry cheesecake (especially the crust pressing and filling spreading parts) or simple Cherry Crumble bars (mixing the topping) are also great activities. Even letting kids help pit cherries (with supervision and appropriate tools) or dip cherries in chocolate can be fun.

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We hope this deep dive into the world of cherry desserts has inspired you! From the comforting warmth of a classic cobbler to the effortless delight of a dump cake, there’s a cherry recipe perfect for your next baking adventure.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy cherries in a dessert? Did we miss any beloved classics? Share your thoughts and favorite cherry recipes in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you! And if you found this guide helpful, please consider sharing it with fellow cherry lovers. Happy baking!