Summer is here, and with it comes the sweet bounty of fresh Cherries! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these bitesize fruits are the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. From zesty Salsas to decadent desserts, cherries bring a burst of flavour and a touch of elegance to any dish. So why not embrace the season and try these seven cherry-packed recipes? They’re sure to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories around the table.
Cherry Salsa
Dive into the vibrant flavours of summer with our Cherry Salsa! This zesty dish is a cool accompaniment to your favourite grilled meats or a standalone snack. Fresh cherries, red onions, a squeeze of lime juice and jalapeño (for that added kick) come together to create a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavours that will have your taste buds dancing. The best part? You can make this salsa ahead of time, so it’s ready to go when you are. Serve it with tortilla chips or use it as a topping for fish tacos for a delightful twist.
Open Can Cherry Sour
Get ready to refresh and rejuvenate with our Open Can Cherry Sour! This easy-to-make cocktail is a modern twist on a classic, combining the natural sweetness of cherries, the tangy kick of lemon and peach juices, your favourite vodka (or make it a zero-proof cocktail if you prefer), and a drizzle of Canadian maple syrup. The egg white adds a frothy texture, but it can be omitted if you prefer. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy on a warm summer evening, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just relaxing on the patio.
Cherry Hand Pies
Bring a touch of homemade charm to your summer with Cherry Hand Pies! These delightful little pastries are the perfect blend of sweet and flaky, making them a hit with the whole family. Start with a simple frozen puff pastry, fill it with a mixture of fresh cherries, sugar, and a hint of almond extract, and seal it with a crimped edge. Bake until golden brown, and you’ll have a batch of warm, gooey hand pies that are as comforting as they are delicious. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Cherry Miami Vice Cocktail
Get ready to transport yourself to a tropical paradise with our Cherry Miami Vice Cocktail. This frothy drink combines the smoothness of white rum with the zesty freshness of lime juice, the sweetness of tart cherry juice, and the natural flavour of fresh strawberries. It’s the perfect cocktail to sip on a sunny day, whether you’re by the pool or just dreaming of one. For a zero-proof cocktail, simply swap out the white rum for an extra ounce of lime juice, cherry juice, and pineapple juice. Cheers!
Cherry Poppy Seed Cake
Elevate your summer baking with our Cherry Poppy Seed Cake! This flavourful, easy-to-make dessert starts with a yellow cake mix . Simply mix in canned cherry pie filling for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor. The poppy seeds add a delightful crunch. Best of all, you can fold any leftover cherry pie filling into vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Cherry Root Beer & Bourbon Float
Cool down with a refreshing Cherry Root Beer and Bourbon Float! This grown-up twist on a classic float combines the rich, fruity flavour of cherries with your favourite bourbon and root beer. A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy and cooling element, and can be garnished with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of shaved chocolate, and a fresh cherry on top. This easy-to-make summer drink is perfect for a relaxing evening or a fun get-together with friends.
Glazed Lemon Half-Pound Cake with Cherries
Our Glazed Lemon Half-Pound Cake with Cherries is a fusion of fresh cherries and zesty lemon, creating summer dessert that is both refreshing and indulgent. Once baked to perfection, the dessert is drizzled with a tangy lemon glaze that adds an extra layer of flavour. This cake is not only can’t-believe-it’s-that-easy to make but also perfect for any summer occasion, whether it’s a casual family dessert or a special celebration.
As the summer sun continues to shine, there’s no better time to embrace the vibrant and versatile flavours of cherries. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or just looking for a new way to enjoy the freshest fruits of the season, these cherry recipes are the perfect way to make your summer truly special. Happy cooking, and here’s to a cherry-tastic summer!