Forktionary

Tart Cherry

Prunus cerasus Fruit, Produce

Tart Cherry Fruit, Produce

At a Glance

  • Category Fruit, Produce

The Forktionary Angle

"The Zest of the Orchard: Unpacking the Sour Power of Tart Cherries"

Definition

A small, firm cherry variety known for its distinct sour flavor, commonly used in pies, jams, juices, and dried snacks.

Common Varieties Montmorency is the most popular North American variety.
Nutritional Highlight Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Peak Season Late June to late July in North America.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Tart Cherry are:

Intensely sour acidic bright with underlying fruity sweetness and a hint of almond

Chef’s Secret

A splash of almond extract or a few drops of rose water can significantly enhance the natural flavor of tart cherries in desserts.

Best Substitutes

Cranberries

for tartness, different flavor

Red Currants

for tartness and color

Sweet Cherries + Lemon Juice

adjust for tartness

Buying Guide

Look for plump, firm, brightly colored cherries. Available fresh, frozen, canned, or dried.

Culinary Pairings

Almonds chocolate vanilla cream pork duck bourbon cinnamon goat cheese

Recipes Using Tart Cherry

Apple Braised Pork Chops image 123
Meat American Apples Low In Something

Apple Braised Pork Chops

Inspired by a Detroit restaurant, these juicy pork chops are braised in a luscious sweet and savory apple and dried cherry sauce. This quick and impressive recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender pork, caramelized onions, and bursts of fruity sweetness create a symphony of flavors in under 40 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Balsamic Chicken With Pears image
Fruit Low Carb Fruit Cherries

Balsamic Chicken With Pears

This elegant Balsamic Chicken with Pears recipe, adapted from Maria Tisdall's "The Convent Cook," creates a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared to perfection, then simmered in a rich balsamic sauce with tender pears and tart cherries. A simple yet sophisticated dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

See Complete Recipe
Best Cherry Pie image 111
Low In Something Weeknight Time To Make Desserts

Best Cherry Pie

This award-winning cherry pie recipe, a blue ribbon winner at the Vicksburg, MS county fair, will become your new family favorite! Bursting with juicy cherries and a perfectly flaky crust, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers exceptional results. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dessert!

See Complete Recipe
Apple Dried Cherry And Pecan Salad With Maple Dressing image
Vegetarian Pears Time To Make Thanksgiving

Apple Dried Cherry And Pecan Salad With Maple Dressing

This stunning Apple, Dried Cherry & Pecan Salad, adapted from a Mountain Town Station Brewing Company recipe (Bon Appetit, Sept 2002), is the perfect holiday side dish or light lunch! Easy to make yet impressive to serve, this recipe features crisp apples, sweet dried cherries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy maple-dijon dressing. Easily customizable – substitute dried cranberries for cherries, use glazed or spiced pecans, or swap pears for apples. Adjust the dressing for your preferred creaminess by altering the sour cream, vinegar, and oil.

See Complete Recipe