tart cherry recipe
The Best tart cherry recipe
What I love most about this recipe, though, is how good it is for you. Tart cherries are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, and they’ve even been shown to help with sleep and muscle recovery. I always keep a bag of frozen tart cherries in the freezer so I can make this any time, whether it’s for a quick weeknight dessert or a healthier alternative to store-bought jams. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients without anyone even noticing—my kids just think it’s a treat. If you haven’t tried cooking with tart cherries before, this is the perfect place to start.
Tart Cherry Hand Pies
These flaky, portable hand pies are filled with a sweet-tart cherry filling and make a perfect snack or dessert. The buttery crust pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy cherries for a delightful treat.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups pitted tart cherries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp almond extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Add cold cubed butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. -
2
Combine ice water and apple cider vinegar, then gradually add to the flour mixture, 1 tbsp at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Do not overwork. -
3
Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. -
4
Make the filling: In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool. -
5
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
6
Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles (about 3-4 inches in diameter). Repeat with the second disc. -
7
Place a spoonful of cherry filling onto half of the dough circles, leaving a small border. Brush the edges with egg wash, then top with another dough circle. Press the edges together with a fork to seal. -
8
Brush the tops of the hand pies with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Cut a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape. -
9
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Round cookie cutter (3-4 inches)
- Pastry brush
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Tart Cherry Hand Pies Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tart Cherry Hand Pies
1. Can I use frozen tart cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can substitute frozen tart cherries for fresh ones in most recipes. Thaw and drain them first to avoid excess liquid, which could alter the texture of your dish. Frozen cherries work especially well in baked goods, smoothies, or sauces.
2. How do I pit tart cherries without a cherry pitter?
If you don’t have a cherry pitter, you can use a small knife to cut around the pit and remove it, or push the pit out with a straw or the blunt end of a chopstick. For large batches, a clean bobby pin or a sturdy paperclip can also work in a pinch.
3. Can I make this recipe with sweet cherries instead?
While you can use sweet cherries, the flavor and tartness will differ significantly. Tart cherries (like Montmorency) have a sharper, more acidic taste that balances sweetness in recipes. If using sweet cherries, you may need to adjust sugar or add lemon juice to mimic the tartness.
4. How long does tart cherry compote or jam last in the fridge?
Homemade tart cherry compote or jam typically lasts 5–7 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months or can it using proper sterilization techniques for shelf-stable preservation.
5. What’s the best way to sweeten tart cherries without overpowering their flavor?
Start with a small amount of sweetener (like honey, maple syrup, or sugar) and taste as you go. Tart cherries pair well with warm spices (cinnamon, cardamom) or citrus zest to enhance their natural flavor. For savory dishes, a pinch of salt can also help balance tartness.