Sweet Cherry Bliss: 15 Irresistible Fresh Cherry Desserts for Summer

There’s truly nothing quite like the arrival of peak-season sweet cherries. Their vibrant dark red hue and lusciously sweet flavor are a culinary delight, a highlight of the warmer months. Whether you enjoy them straight from the bowl, by the handful, or baked into your favorite sweet treats, fresh cherries bring an unparalleled burst of flavor. This curated collection features 15 incredible cherry dessert recipes, all designed to showcase the natural beauty and deliciousness of fresh, in-season sweet cherries. Get ready to indulge in the best of summer’s bounty!

Embracing Cherry Season: A Short But Sweet Delight

For many, fresh cherries are a true culinary obsession! Their deep red, sometimes almost black, hue and irresistibly sweet, juicy flavor make them an absolute marvel of nature. It’s this unique combination of color and taste that makes them feel so special, a pure magic that signals the height of summer.

The downside, if there is one, is that sweet cherries are only in season for a relatively short period. Typically, these ruby gems begin to appear on grocery store shelves and at farmers’ markets around May or June, and their season usually concludes by the end of July. Of course, this timing can vary slightly depending on your specific state or geographical location. This fleeting availability only adds to their allure, making every bite feel like a precious taste of summer. Don’t miss out on making the most of these glorious weeks by incorporating fresh cherries into your favorite desserts and enjoying them in their simplest, freshest form!

Exploring the Delicious World of Cherry Varieties

When most people talk about “sweet cherries,” they are very likely referring to the beloved Bing cherry. These dark red, heart-shaped fruits are undeniably the most popular type of cherry across the U.S., and for excellent reasons! Bings are celebrated for their remarkably deep red color, firm texture, and intensely sweet, juicy flesh, making them perfect for both snacking and baking.

However, during the vibrant cherry season, you can often find several other delightful varieties, each offering its own unique characteristics. Expanding your cherry palate can lead to new favorites and exciting culinary discoveries. Here are a few other types you might encounter and want to try:

• Rainier Cherries: Often considered a gourmet choice, Rainier cherries are truly magnificent. These golden beauties, with their distinctive blush-red tint, are my absolute favorite! They offer a delightful balance of firm texture, intense sweetness, and a subtle tartness that creates a truly complex flavor profile. They are incredibly versatile, perfect for luxurious snacking, adding a pop of color and flavor to salads, or elevating delicate desserts.
• Black Cherries (Chelan Cherries): Slightly larger and typically rounder than Bing cherries, Chelan or “black” cherries boast an even darker, almost purplish-black color. Their flavor is rich and sweet, often described as having a deeper, more concentrated cherry taste than Bings. They are excellent for those who appreciate a more robust cherry experience.
• Sour Cherries (Montmorency Cherries): Primarily grown in Michigan, Montmorency cherries, commonly known as sour or tart cherries, are distinct from their sweet counterparts. As their name suggests, they are notably tart, which makes them less suitable for raw snacking but absolutely ideal for baking. Their high acidity beautifully balances rich pastries, making them the star of classic cherry pies, cobblers, and vibrant jams. While they are a staple in many traditional cherry desserts, finding them fresh in southern states can be quite a challenge. Fortunately, they are widely available frozen or canned, ensuring you can enjoy their unique flavor year-round for your baking needs.

Tips for Selecting and Storing Fresh Cherries

To ensure you get the most out of your cherry season, knowing how to choose and care for your cherries is key. When selecting fresh cherries, look for fruits that are firm, plump, and have a vibrant, shiny skin. The stems should ideally be green and attached, indicating freshness. Avoid any cherries that are soft, shriveled, or have mold spots.

Once you bring them home, store unwashed cherries in a plastic bag or a shallow container in the refrigerator. Washing them prematurely can speed up spoilage. They typically stay fresh for about 5-7 days when stored correctly. Just before using, wash them thoroughly under cool running water. For most dessert recipes, you’ll need to pit the cherries. A cherry pitter makes this task quick and easy, but a pastry tip or even a chopstick can work in a pinch!

Indulge in Peak-Season: Irresistible Fresh Cherry Recipes!

Now that you’re well-versed in the magic of fresh cherries, it’s time to put them to good use! All of the drool-worthy desserts below celebrate the juicy goodness of fresh, in-season cherries. If you’re looking for fantastic recipes that specifically call for frozen cherries, we have a separate collection for you right here. But for those precious weeks when fresh cherries are abundant, these recipes are absolute must-tries!

1. Cherry Coffee Cake Recipe

Who doesn’t love the breakfast dessert trend? That magical concept where adding the word “breakfast” instantly transforms any sweet treat into a morning-appropriate meal! And let me tell you, this cherry coffee cake is so incredibly good, you won’t want to wait until after dinner to enjoy a slice.

It’s perfectly moist and richly buttery, studded generously with plump, fresh Bing cherries that burst with flavor. Crowned with a delightfully crumbly streusel topping, this cake is an absolute dream for any time of day. Serve it with your morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or a light dessert – it’s always a winner!

2. Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Is there anything more utterly indulgent than a gooey, fudgy, intensely dark chocolate brownie? We think not! But these magnificent cherry brownies manage to take the classic fudge brownie experience and elevate it to new heights with the addition of juicy fresh cherries and a sweet, glistening cherry glaze.

The tartness of the cherries beautifully cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a perfectly balanced flavor sensation. These beauties are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them ideal for special occasions and holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day, when you want to serve something a little bit extra and truly memorable. They’re a guaranteed crowd-plepleaser!

3. Chocolate Cherry Scones

Scones have a magical way of brightening any morning, especially when paired with a steaming cup of coffee – another one of my great loves! These exquisite chocolate cherry scones are no exception; they deliver pure joy with every bite. Crafted to perfection, they boast a wonderfully buttery, flaky texture that crumbles delicately in your mouth.

Each scone is generously studded with bursts of sweet, fresh cherries and rich chocolate chips, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. They’re substantial enough for a satisfying breakfast or brunch, yet delicate enough to be a delightful afternoon tea treat. These are an absolute must-try this summer, promising a truly memorable baking and eating experience.

4. Pineapple Cherry Popsicles

There’s nothing quite as satisfying on a hot summer day as a homemade popsicle, and my kids absolutely love helping me make them! I highly recommend investing in a good silicone mold, as it makes popping out these frozen treats incredibly easy and mess-free. These pineapple cherry popsicles are unbelievably simple to prepare, yet astonishingly refreshing and packed with natural fruit flavor.

They feature a beautiful two-layer design: a vibrant, sweet layer of fresh cherry juice forming the base, followed by a bright and tangy pineapple layer. The combination of sweet cherry and zesty pineapple creates a tropical symphony that will cool you down and put a smile on everyone’s face. A perfect healthy-ish treat for the whole family!

5. Cherry Muffins with Almond Extract

For all the muffin enthusiasts out there, these cherry muffins are an absolute game-changer! They boast an irresistibly light and fluffy texture, making them a joy to bite into. What truly sets them apart is the thoughtful touch of almond extract, which beautifully complements the natural sweetness of the cherries, adding a sophisticated depth of flavor.

Each muffin is generously studded with an abundance of sweet, fresh cherries, ensuring a burst of fruity goodness in every mouthful. Perfect for a quick breakfast, a delightful snack, or a sweet addition to any brunch spread, these lovely muffins are a must-bake during cherry season. You won’t regret adding this recipe to your repertoire!

6. Sweet Cherry Galette

If you’re looking for an impressive yet effortlessly rustic dessert, this sweet cherry galette is your answer! It features a vibrant, juicy filling made from fresh, ripe sweet cherries, gently sweetened to perfection. Encased in a beautifully flaky, free-form pastry crust, this galette offers all the deliciousness of a pie with significantly less fuss.

The beauty of a galette lies in its simplicity – no pie plate needed, just a humble dough folded casually around the fruit. It bakes up to a golden-brown perfection, with the cherries bubbling invitingly. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an unforgettable summer dessert that truly celebrates the season’s bounty.

7. Sweet Cherry Pie Recipe

A classic for a reason, this jammy sweet cherry pie perfectly highlights the natural sugars and vibrant flavor of fresh Bing cherries, delivering a truly blissful summer treat. This recipe promises a filling that’s perfectly sweet, with just enough tartness to keep it interesting, all encased in a flaky, golden-brown crust.

Making a sweet cherry pie is an absolute must-do before the summer season fades away. It’s the quintessential dessert for picnics, potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a cozy evening at home. Serve it warm, perhaps with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, for an iconic taste of summer that everyone will adore. It’s a timeless dessert that never disappoints!

8. Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Recipes

Prepare to be delighted by these cherry cheesecake cupcakes – they are every bit as good as they look, and then some! These charming little desserts are a brilliant fusion of two beloved treats, combining the lightness of a cupcake with the rich creaminess of a cheesecake. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Starting with a delectable graham cracker crust base, these sweet vanilla cupcakes are then filled with a vibrant, tangy fresh cherry filling that perfectly complements the rich flavors. They are crowned with a silky smooth, dreamily creamy cream cheese buttercream, making them truly irresistible. Essentially, they’re like perfectly portioned, adorable little cherry cheesecakes in cupcake form, ideal for parties or a special individual indulgence!

9. Cherry Oat Bars

While this original recipe calls for frozen cherries, the resulting jammy filling makes it absolutely perfect for using fresh, peak-season cherries as well! Just remember to pit and de-stem them first to ensure a smooth, delightful texture. These delicious bars are a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making them a fantastic treat any time of day.

They feature a rich, buttery shortbread crust that provides a wonderfully firm foundation, followed by a thick layer of luscious fresh cherry filling that bursts with sweet-tart flavor. The top is finished with a rustic, crumbly oat brown sugar topping, adding a delightful crunch. These bars are excellent for breakfast, a coffee break, or a satisfying dessert, especially when served warm!

10. Cherry Cobbler

This truly is the best cherry cobbler recipe you’ll ever make! Imagine a warm, bubbling, intensely fruity filling made with fresh, juicy cherries, perfectly balanced with a light sweetness. The entire delectable creation is topped with a homemade, sweet, and buttery biscuit-like crust that bakes to golden perfection, creating an irresistible texture contrast.

This old-fashioned cherry cobbler captures the essence of summer in every spoonful. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert, especially when served hot from the oven with a generous scoop of cold vanilla ice cream melting decadently over the warm fruit and topping. It’s perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or simply a cozy evening treat. Prepare for rave reviews!

11. Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats

While technically categorized for breakfast, these chocolate cherry overnight oats are so incredibly decadent and sweet that they absolutely deserve a spot in our dessert roundup! They perfectly blur the lines between a wholesome breakfast and a luxurious treat, offering the best of both worlds.

The oats themselves are wonderfully chewy, yet rich and creamy, infused with deep chocolate flavor. The fresh cherries add a vibrant burst of fruity sweetness and a delightful tart counterpoint. Don’t forget the finishing touches: a sprinkle of chocolate shavings and extra fresh cherries on top elevate this dish from simple oats to a truly indulgent experience. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the classic chocolate and cherry combination!

12. Cherry Yogurt Popsicles

These cherry yogurt popsicles are the epitome of simple satisfaction! Requiring just four wholesome ingredients – creamy Greek yogurt, a touch of maple syrup for sweetness, luscious fresh cherries, and crunchy granola – they come together effortlessly. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy-ish treat that feels indulgent on a warm day.

I absolutely adore the interplay of textures and flavors here: the smooth, creamy consistency of the frozen yogurt, the delightful crunch of the granola, and the sweet, juicy bursts of fresh cherries. It’s a symphony for the taste buds! What’s more, these are perfect for getting the kiddos involved in the kitchen, making them a fun and delicious family activity. Freeze a batch today for a refreshing snack or light dessert!

13. Homemade Cherry Jam

There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade jam, and this vibrant cherry jam is no exception! It tastes absolutely divine spread generously on a slice of warm vanilla pound cake or a light, airy angel food cake, instantly transforming them into a gourmet dessert. The rich, fruity flavor of fresh cherries truly shines through, making it superior to any store-bought variety.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is its simplicity: you only need three basic ingredients, and remarkably, no pectin is required! This makes it a fantastic, low-effort way to preserve the bounty of cherry season. It’s also an excellent method to use up any slightly overripe cherries before they go to waste, ensuring none of that precious fruit is lost. A jar of this homemade jam makes for a thoughtful gift too!

14. Homemade Cherry Cheesecake

This cherry-topped cheesecake is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the simplest presentations are the most stunning and delicious! It begins with a perfectly buttery graham cracker crust, providing a delightful crunch and rich flavor base. This is then layered with a wonderfully creamy, luscious vanilla filling that melts in your mouth with every bite.

But the true star is the topping: an abundance of glistening fresh cherries enveloped in a homemade cherry syrup, adding a vibrant burst of color and a fresh, fruity tang that perfectly balances the rich creaminess of the cheesecake. This is a dessert that never fails to impress, combining classic flavors with the unparalleled taste of peak-season fruit. You simply cannot go wrong with this elegant and delicious homemade cherry cheesecake!

15. Cherry Crisp

There’s nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a warm, bubbly fruit crisp, and this cherry crisp takes center stage! It masterfully highlights the juicy sweetness of fresh, ripe sweet cherries, nestled in a lightly spiced homemade filling that brings out their best flavor. The crowning glory is a rustic, golden-brown oat and brown sugar crumble topping, providing a delightful textural contrast with every spoonful.

This recipe is wonderfully simple, incredibly delicious, and surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual weeknights to special gatherings. For the ultimate indulgence, I wholeheartedly recommend serving it warm with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cool ice cream melting into the hot, fruity crisp is a match made in dessert heaven!

Beyond Desserts: More Summer Recipes to Savor

While fresh cherries shine in these incredible desserts, their versatility extends to savory dishes and refreshing beverages too. And as we celebrate the bounty of summer, don’t forget to explore other seasonal delights. Here are a few more delicious summer recipes to inspire your culinary adventures:

• Cherry & Arugula Salad
• Summer Peach Crisp
• Peach Basil Syrup
• Quinoa Salad with Feta & Peaches

Conclusion: Make the Most of Cherry Season!

As you can see, the limited window of cherry season is a cause for celebration, offering an abundance of opportunities to create truly unforgettable dishes. From rich, chocolatey brownies to light, refreshing popsicles, and classic comforting pies, fresh sweet cherries elevate every recipe they grace. We hope this comprehensive guide to cherry varieties, selection tips, and this delightful collection of 15 fresh cherry desserts inspires you to bake, create, and savor every moment of this special time of year.

Don’t let this glorious season pass you by without trying a few of these incredible recipes. Gather your freshest cherries, invite some friends and family, and make some sweet memories. Happy baking and happy cherry season!