Fruit | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Black Cherry

Prunus serotina; Prunus avium Allergen-Free
Black Cherry

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rosaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global, North American
  • Seasonality Late Spring to Mid-Summer (June-July)
  • Source Cherry tree fruit

The Forktionary Angle

"The jewel-toned orb of summer, a burst of dark sweetness with a hint of wild allure."

Definition

A dark-fleshed, sweet-tart fruit, known for its deep color and rich, intense cherry flavor, often used in desserts and preserves.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Tart, Rich, Fruity, Hint of Almond
TextureFirm, Juicy, Smooth Skin
AromaFruity, Floral, Almond-like
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Antioxidant Rich

High in anthocyanins

Common Use

Pies, jams, clafoutis, fresh eating

Harvest Season

Late spring to mid-summer

Nutrition Facts

Per 100 g (approx. 10-12 cherries)
Calories63 kcal
Total Fat0.2 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.1 g
Total Carbohydrate16 g
Dietary Fiber2.1 g
Total Sugars13 g
Calcium13 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium222 mg

Chef’s Secret

To easily pit a large quantity of cherries, use a cherry pitter or a pastry tip/chopstick to push the pit out from the stem end. This preserves more flesh.

Substitutions

Best Match

Dark Sweet Cherries (e.g., Bing)

1:1

Very similar flavor and appearance, often used interchangeably.

Sour Cherries (Tart Cherries)

1:1 (add sugar to balance tartness)

More tart, better for baking or preserves where sugar can be adjusted.

Raspberries

1:1

Offers a similar sweet-tart balance and color in desserts, different texture.

Dried Cherries (rehydrated)

1:2 (dried:fresh by weight)

Good for flavor in baking, less juicy than fresh.

Buying Guide

Look for plump, firm cherries with bright green stems. Avoid soft or shriveled ones.

Flavor Pairings

Chocolate almond vanilla cream port wine duck pork game meats.

Recipes Using Black Cherry

A 1 Black Cherry Brie Chocolate Walnut Tartlet A1 image 154
Seasonal Preparation Course 60 Minutes Or Less

A 1 Black Cherry Brie Chocolate Walnut Tartlet A1

Indulge in these decadent A1 Black Cherry Brie Chocolate Walnut Tartlets! Flaky puff pastry shells cradle creamy French brie, layered with a unique A1 steak sauce-infused black cherry sauce, and finished with rich dark chocolate-covered roasted walnuts. This seasonal, savory-sweet masterpiece is perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or a delightful dessert. A recipe inspired by an original sauce recipe contest entry.

See Complete Recipe
Authentic Black Forest Cake Schwarzwald Kirsch Kuchen image 207
Cuisine European 1 Day Or More Time To Make

Authentic Black Forest Cake Schwarzwald Kirsch Kuchen

Indulge in the true taste of Germany with this authentic Black Forest Cake recipe! Unlike its overly sweet North American counterparts, this Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte boasts a sophisticated balance of deep, rich flavors and a delightful kick of Kirsch (cherry brandy). Made with fresh cherries (or high-quality canned Bing cherries – absolutely NO pie filling!), this recipe is a decadent dessert for adults only. If Kirsch is unavailable, cherry juice can be substituted, though the experience won't be quite the same. Prepare for a truly unforgettable culinary journey!

See Complete Recipe