Fresh Cherry Recipes: 7 Irresistible Ideas You’ll Want to Try This Summer

Fresh cherry recipes for summer! From cherry pie to cherry lemonade, discover easy and delicious ways to use fresh cherries. Perfect for Pinterest—get inspired today!

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, juicy burst of fresh cherries at the peak of summer. Whether you pick them from a local orchard or grab them from the farmers’ market, cherries are a versatile fruit perfect for both sweet and savory dishes. In this guide, I’ll share 7 fresh cherry recipes that are easy, delicious, and from classic desserts to refreshing drinks!

1 Classic Fresh Cherry Pie

This delightful homemade pie bursts with the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of fresh cherries. Encased in a buttery, flaky crust, each bite offers a perfect balance of juicy fruit and rich pastry. A true summer classic that’s perfect for picnics, holidays, and family gatherings!

Ingredients:

4 cups fresh cherries (pitted)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp almond extract
2 tbsp butter (cubed)
1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tbsp milk

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, mix cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract.

Roll out one pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. Pour in the cherry mixture. Dot with butter.

Top with the second crust (lattice or full). Seal edges and cut slits for steam.

Brush with egg wash (egg + milk).

Bake 50-60 minutes until golden brown.

Cool before slicing.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract.
Roll out one pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. Pour in the cherry mixture. Dot with butter.
Top with the second crust (lattice or full). Seal edges and cut slits for steam.
Brush with egg wash (egg + milk).
Bake 50-60 minutes until golden brown.
Cool before slicing.

2 Fresh Cherry Lemonade

A refreshing summer drink that blends the bright, tangy taste of fresh-squeezed lemons with the sweet juiciness of ripe cherries. Served over ice, this vibrant pink lemonade is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day, offering a delicious balance of sweet and tart in every sip!

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh cherries (pitted)

1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

4 cups cold water

Ice

Lemon slices & mint (for garnish)

2 cups fresh cherries (pitted)
1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
4 cups cold water
Ice
Lemon slices & mint (for garnish)

Instructions:

Blend cherries until smooth. Strain to remove pulp.
In a pitcher, combine cherry juice, lemon juice, sugar, and water.
Stir well. Serve over ice. Garnish with lemon slices and mint..

3 Fresh Cherry Compote (Perfect Topping

A luscious and simple cherry compote made with fresh, juicy cherries simmered gently to create a sweet, rich sauce. This versatile topping is perfect for pancakes, waffles, yogurt, ice cream, and even cheesecake, adding a burst of fruity flavor to any dish.

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh cherries (halved and pitted)

1/4 cup sugar

1 tbsp lemon juice

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups fresh cherries (halved and pitted)
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until syrupy.
Stir in vanilla. Cool slightly before serving over ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt.

In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice.

Cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until syrupy.

Stir in vanilla. Cool slightly before serving over ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt.

4 Fresh Cherry Muffins

Soft, fluffy muffins bursting with chunks of sweet, juicy fresh cherries in every bite. These delightful treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, offering a wonderful balance of sweetness and tartness with a golden, tender crumb.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup melted butter
2/3 cup milk
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups fresh cherries (halved)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line muffin tin.
In a bowl, mix dry ingredients. In another, mix wet.
Combine, fold in cherries gently.
Fill muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake 20-25 min.

5 Fresh Cherry Sorbet

A cool, vibrant dessert made with pureed fresh cherries, offering an intense burst of sweet-tart flavor in every spoonful. This refreshing sorbet is naturally dairy-free and perfect for hot summer days or as a light, fruity finish to any meal.

Ingredients:

4 cups fresh cherries (pitted)

1/2 cup sugar

1 tbsp lemon juice

1/2 cup water

4 cups fresh cherries (pitted)
1/2 cup sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup water

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients until smooth.
Pour into ice cream maker; churn as directed.
Freeze until firm. Serve!

Blend all ingredients until smooth.

Pour into ice cream maker; churn as directed.

Freeze until firm. Serve!

6 Summer Cherry & Arugula Salad

A vibrant, fresh salad that combines the sweet juiciness of ripe summer cherries with the peppery bite of arugula. Tossed with crumbled goat cheese, toasted almonds, and a light balsamic vinaigrette, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ideal for warm-weather meals.

Ingredients:

....t4 cups arugula

1 cup fresh cherries (halved)

1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese

1/4 cup toasted almonds

2 tbsp balsamic glaze

2 tbsp olive oil

4 cups arugula
1 cup fresh cherries (halved)
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
1/4 cup toasted almonds
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

Toss arugula, cherries, cheese, and almonds.
Drizzle with balsamic and olive oil. Serve fresh

Toss arugula, cherries, cheese, and almonds.

Drizzle with balsamic and olive oil. Serve fre

7 Easy Fresh Cherry Jam (No Pectin)

A simple, homemade jam made with juicy fresh cherries, cooked down naturally without the need for added pectin. This rich, sweet spread is perfect for slathering on toast, pairing with cheese, or adding a burst of cherry flavor to your favorite desserts.

Ingredients:

3 cups fresh cherries (pitted & chopped)

1 cup sugar

1 tbsp lemon juice

3 cups fresh cherries (pitted & chopped)
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

Cook cherries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.
Stir often until thick (20-25 min).
Pour into sterilized jars. Cool & refrigerate.

Cook cherries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.

Stir often until thick (20-25 min).

Pour into sterilized jars. Cool & refrigerate.

Final Tips for Cooking with Fresh Cherries

Always pit cherries before cooking.
Sweet cherries work best for desserts; tart cherries for jams.
Freeze extra cherries for year-round recipes.

FAQ: Fresh Cherry Recipes for Summer

FAQ

What kind of cherries are best for fresh cherry recipes?

Fresh sweet cherries like Bing, Rainier, and Chelan are great for most recipes, especially desserts and snacks. Tart cherries (like Montmorency) are better for pies, jams, and sauces because of their bright, tangy flavor.

FAQ

What’s the easiest fresh cherry recipe for beginners?

Fresh Cherry Lemonade or Easy Fresh Cherry Jam (no pectin needed) are simple, beginner-friendly recipes. They require minimal ingredients and steps, perfect for first-timers.

FAQ

Do I need to pit the cherries before using them?

Yes, it’s best to pit cherries before adding them to recipes. You can use a cherry pitter or a small knife. Removing the pits makes cherries easier to eat and ensures smooth textures in jams, pies, and sauces.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well for cooking and baking, though they may release more juice. If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in your recipes.

FAQ

How should I store fresh cherries before using them?

Keep fresh cherries in a breathable bag or container in the refrigerator. They usually stay fresh for up to a week. Wash them only right before use to prevent spoilage.

FAQ

Can I reduce the sugar in fresh cherry desserts?

Yes, you can adjust the sugar to taste, especially if using very sweet cherries. For jams or preserves, reducing sugar may affect texture and shelf life, so consider using a low-sugar pectin or a tested low-sugar recipe.

FAQ

Are fresh cherry recipes healthy?

Fresh cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Recipes like cherry salads, smoothies, or sorbets can be healthy options. Watch added sugars in baked goods or jams to keep them lighter.

FAQ

What tools are useful for making cherry recipes?

A cherry pitter, sharp paring knife, zester, and a heavy-bottomed pot (for jams) are handy tools. A blender or food processor helps with drinks, sauces, and sorbets.

FAQ

Can I make cherry recipes ahead of time?

Yes! Many cherry recipes—like jams, pies, and compotes—can be made ahead and stored. Jams last for weeks in the fridge or longer if canned. Pies can be baked a day ahead and served at room temperature or slightly warmed.

FAQ

What are creative ways to use fresh cherries besides dessert?

Try adding fresh cherries to salads, grain bowls, grilled meats (as a salsa or compote), or blending them into vinaigrettes. Their sweet-tart flavor pairs beautifully with savory dishes.

Ultimate Mulberry Recipe Guide

Mulberries, often overlooked in modern kitchens, are a treasure trove of flavor and nutrition. These juicy berries—once a staple in ancient civilizations—thrive in backyards, forests, and urban parks, waiting to be rediscovered. Whether you’re a forager hunting for wild fruit or a foodie craving bold new flavors, this guide offers everything you need to transform mulberries into culinary magic.