5 Delicious Dried Tart Cherry Recipes You Have To Try

The vibrant, tart flavor of dried cherries is a delightful ingredient that can elevate a range of culinary creations. Whether you're aiming for a sweet treat, a refreshing drink, or a wholesome dish, dried tart cherries offer a burst of flavor that's both unique and irresistible. Today, we'll explore five delightful recipes that incorporate dried tart cherries, each crafted to tantalize your taste buds.

Tart Cherry Almond Biscotti 🎂

Biscotti, with their crunchy texture and sweet notes, make for an excellent companion to your coffee or tea. Adding tart cherries and almonds brings a whole new level of flavor to this classic Italian treat.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Tart Cherry Almond Biscotti" alt="Tart Cherry Almond Biscotti"> </div>

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried tart cherries, chopped
• 1 cup almonds, coarsely chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.

3. Cream eggs and sugar: In another bowl, beat together eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Combine: Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet, then fold in the cherries and almonds.

5. Shape: On the prepared sheet, form the dough into two logs about 12 inches long.

6. Bake: Bake for 25 minutes. Let the logs cool, then slice diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick pieces.

7. Second Bake: Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Lay the slices cut side up and bake for about 10-15 minutes until crisp.

<p class="pro-note">🎈 Note: For an extra crunch, add a sprinkle of sugar over the biscotti before the second bake.</p>

Dried Cherry and Brie Salad 🥗

A light and refreshing salad can be an unexpected canvas for dried tart cherries. Combined with creamy Brie cheese, the cherries add a zesty twist that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Dried Cherry and Brie Salad" alt="Dried Cherry and Brie Salad"> </div>

Ingredients:

• 6 cups mixed greens (like arugula, spinach)
• 1 wheel of Brie, chilled and cubed
• 1/2 cup dried tart cherries
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• Balsamic vinaigrette for dressing

Instructions:

1. Layer: Arrange the greens on a platter.

2. Add ingredients: Scatter the Brie cubes, dried cherries, and walnuts over the greens.

3. Dress: Drizzle with your preferred balsamic vinaigrette.

<p class="pro-note">🌱 Note: Consider adding a handful of roasted pumpkin seeds for extra texture and a festive look.</p>

Cherry Stuffed Chicken with Spinach and Goat Cheese 🍗

Turn an ordinary chicken breast into an exquisite dinner with the addition of cherries, spinach, and creamy goat cheese.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Cherry Stuffed Chicken with Spinach and Goat Cheese" alt="Cherry Stuffed Chicken with Spinach and Goat Cheese"> </div>

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup dried tart cherries
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 4 oz goat cheese, softened
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing horizontally, nearly through, then opening like a book.

2. Stuff: Mix cherries, spinach, and goat cheese. Season with salt and pepper, then evenly distribute the mixture into each breast.

3. Seal: Fold the chicken back over the stuffing, securing with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

4. Cook: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.

5. Serve: Remove toothpicks, slice the chicken, and drizzle with any remaining juices.

Cherry Chocolate Truffles 🍫

These truffles are the perfect sweet ending to any meal or a lovely gift for those with a sweet tooth. The combination of cherry and chocolate is timeless.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Cherry Chocolate Truffles" alt="Cherry Chocolate Truffles"> </div>

Ingredients:

• 10 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup dried tart cherries, finely chopped
• Cocoa powder or dark chocolate for coating

Instructions:

1. Heat cream: Bring the heavy cream to a simmer in a saucepan.

2. Melt chocolate: Remove from heat and add chocolate, stirring until completely melted and smooth.

3. Incorporate cherries: Mix in the chopped dried cherries.

4. Set: Pour the mixture into a bowl and chill until firm.

5. Form truffles: Once firm, scoop and roll into balls, then coat in cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate.

<p class="pro-note">🎄 Note: Add a splash of amaretto or cherry liqueur for an adult twist.</p>

Tart Cherry Spritzer 💧

A refreshing drink, perfect for hot summer days or as a unique party beverage.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Tart Cherry Spritzer" alt="Tart Cherry Spritzer"> </div>

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried tart cherries
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
• 1 bottle of sparkling water
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Make cherry syrup: Boil water with cherries, sugar, and simmer until cherries soften. Cool and strain to remove cherries.

2. Mix: In a glass with ice, pour cherry syrup, top with sparkling water.

3. Garnish: Add a sprig of mint and a few whole cherries for garnish.

These five recipes are just the beginning of your culinary journey with dried tart cherries. Each offers something unique, whether it's an explosion of flavor in your biscotti, the elegance of a stuffed chicken dish, or the refreshing zest of a cherry spritzer. Incorporating dried tart cherries into your meals is not only delicious but also provides a surprising nutritional boost with their high antioxidant levels and fiber.

In exploring these recipes, you've not only expanded your culinary repertoire but also embraced the vibrant flavors and healthful benefits of dried tart cherries. Whether you're baking, cooking, or crafting a cocktail, the tartness of the cherries adds depth and intrigue to any dish or drink.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use frozen cherries instead of dried cherries in these recipes?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Frozen cherries can be substituted in some recipes like the cherry stuffed chicken, but for baking or where texture is important (like in biscotti), dried cherries are preferred for their chewiness and concentrated flavor.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are these recipes gluten-free?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Some recipes can be made gluten-free by using substitutes like almond flour for the biscotti or ensuring that ingredients like soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce used in dishes are gluten-free.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I store dried tart cherries?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Dried tart cherries should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life. Keep them away from heat and moisture.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>