Cherry fritters bring a delightful twist to classic fried treats with their juicy bursts of flavor and crispy golden exterior. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, these fritters combine fresh cherries with a light, fluffy batter that cooks up quickly and easily.
We love how cherry fritters capture the essence of summer in every bite, making them a favorite for family gatherings or weekend brunches. Plus, they’re simple to make with just a few ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Ingredients
To make our Cherry Fritter Recipe truly shine, we start with simple yet essential ingredients that create a perfectly balanced batter, luscious filling, and a golden crispy finish. Below are the key components broken down by use.
For the Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 1 cup fresh pitted cherries, chopped (about 150g)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for warm spice note)
For Frying
- 2 cups vegetable oil or canola oil (for deep frying)
For the Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Batter | All-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt | 1 cup, 2 tbsp, 1 tsp, ¼ tsp |
| Egg, milk, vanilla extract | 1 large, ½ cup, 1 tsp | |
| Filling | Fresh cherries, sugar, cinnamon | 1 cup, 1 tbsp, ½ tsp |
| Frying | Vegetable or canola oil | 2 cups |
| Glaze (Optional) | Powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract | 1 cup, 2 tbsp, ½ tsp |
These ingredients combine to create our signature cherry fritters—crispy on the outside, loaded with juicy cherries, and kissed with a sweet glaze if desired.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our delicious Cherry Fritter Recipe perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Here is a detailed list of tools we need to achieve the ideal crispy exterior and juicy cherry filling:
- Mixing Bowls: At least two medium-sized bowls—one for the batter and one for mixing the cherry filling.
- Whisk: Essential for blending the batter ingredients smoothly and incorporating air for a fluffy texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement ensures consistent results.
- Cherry Pitter: A tool to quickly and safely pit fresh cherries without crushing them.
- Slotted Spoon: Ideal for removing the fritters from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain.
- Deep Frying Pan or Dutch Oven: Provides enough depth and heat distribution to fry the fritters evenly.
- Cooking Thermometer: Maintaining the oil temperature at the optimal 350°F (175°C) is crucial for perfect fritters.
- Cooling Rack: Enables oil to drain and keeps fritters crispy without getting soggy.
- Paper Towels: For initial oil absorption after frying.
- Small Bowl and Spoon: For mixing optional glaze ingredients and drizzling it over the fritters.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Batter and cherry filling preparation |
| Whisk | Smooth, airy batter mixing |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Cherry Pitter | Efficiently pits cherries |
| Slotted Spoon | Safely removes fritters from hot oil |
| Deep Frying Pan/Dutch Oven | Deep frying with even heat distribution |
| Cooking Thermometer | Ensures correct frying temperature |
| Cooling Rack | Allows oil to drain for crispiness |
| Paper Towels | Absorbs excess oil immediately |
| Small Bowl & Spoon | Prepares and applies glaze |
With these tools ready, we can confidently move forward to create the perfect cherry fritters that are crispy, flavorful, and bursting with juicy cherries.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To enjoy our Cherry Fritters fresh and flavorful at any time, planning ahead can make the process seamless and stress-free. Below are the optimized steps to prepare key components in advance, ensuring quick assembly and cooking when you’re ready to serve.
Prepare the Batter Ahead
- Mix the dry ingredients: Combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Whisk together the wet ingredients: Beat egg, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients thoroughly but avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
- Transfer the batter to an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Before frying, gently stir the batter; it may thicken slightly but should remain pourable.
Prepping the Cherry Filling in Advance
- Pit the fresh cherries using a cherry pitter or small knife.
- Toss cherries with sugar and optional ground cinnamon.
- Store the cherry mixture in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
- The filling can be made up to 2 days ahead for enhanced flavor infusion.
Ready-to-Fry Tips
| Component | Make-Ahead Storage | Maximum Storage Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batter | Airtight container | 24 hours | Stir gently before frying |
| Cherry filling | Sealed container | 48 hours | Keeps flavor fresh and vibrant |
| Glaze (optional) | Covered bowl or jar | 24 hours | Stir before drizzling |
Glaze Preparation and Storage
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze.
- Store in a small covered bowl or jar.
- Chill in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Re-stir before using to maintain creamy consistency.
“Making the batter and cherry filling ahead allows us to focus on frying and serving warm, crispy fritters that delight every time.”
By following these make-ahead instructions, we keep our Cherry Fritter Recipe efficient and ready for those spontaneous cravings or planned gatherings.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step directions to create crispy and juicy cherry fritters that delight every time. Each stage focuses on essential techniques to bring out the best flavor and texture.
Preparing the Cherries
- Pit 2 cups of fresh cherries using a cherry pitter or carefully with a paring knife.
- In a medium mixing bowl, toss the pitted cherries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth and depth).
- Let the mixture rest for at least 10 minutes; this step allows the cherries to release their natural juices and intensify in flavor.
Making the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients until well combined:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Baking powder | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
- In a separate bowl, beat 1 large egg with ½ cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently just until combined. The batter should be thick yet slightly pourable — avoid overmixing to keep fritters light and fluffy.
Assembling the Fritters
- Gently fold the prepared cherry mixture into the batter, ensuring cherries are evenly distributed without breaking them apart excessively.
- Use a spoon or small ice cream scoop to portion about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter.
Frying the Fritters
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable or canola oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to a consistent 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature precisely.
- Carefully drop the batter portions into the hot oil, frying 3-4 fritters at a time to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry until the fritters are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to turn them gently.
- Remove fritters with the slotted spoon and place on a cooling rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
Adding the Glaze (Optional)
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon |
- Drizzle the glaze generously over warm fritters.
- Allow glaze to set briefly before serving for a sweet, glossy finish.
Our cherished cherry fritters combine a crispy exterior with bursts of juicy cherry goodness, best enjoyed fresh with or without the optional glaze.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Cherry Fritter Recipe, we recommend pairing these crispy, juicy fritters with a variety of accompaniments that enhance their flavor and texture. Here are our top serving suggestions to elevate your cherry fritter experience:
1. Classic Powdered Sugar Dusting
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and an attractive finish. Simply sprinkle sugar evenly over warm fritters using a fine sieve for a snowy effect that balances the tartness of cherries.
2. Drizzle with Vanilla Glaze
Our optional vanilla glaze creates a shiny, sweet coating that complements the crispy fritter exterior. Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract and spoon over the fritters while still warm for optimal absorption.
3. Serve with Fresh Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt
A dollop of freshly whipped cream or tangy Greek yogurt pairs perfectly with the fritters. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the fritters’ crispness and adds richness without overpowering the cherry flavor.
4. Add Fresh Fruit or Berry Compote
Enhance the presentation and flavor by serving with fresh fruits such as sliced strawberries or blueberries. Alternatively, a warm berry compote provides a luscious topping that intensifies the cherry notes and adds moisture.
5. Accompany with Hot Beverages
Cherry fritters taste fantastic alongside:
| Beverage Type | Reason for Pairing |
|---|---|
| Coffee | Balances sweetness with bitter notes |
| Hot Tea | Provides subtle aromatic contrast |
| Hot Chocolate | Adds a rich, comforting element |
6. Ice Cream or Sorbet Side
For a dessert twist, serve warm cherry fritters with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruity sorbet. The cold creaminess against the hot fritter creates a pleasant temperature contrast, enhancing the dish’s indulgence.
“Serving our cherry fritters with these complementary accompaniments transforms them from a simple treat into a memorable eating experience.”
By selecting any of these serving ideas or combining multiple, we can customize the perfect presentation and flavor profile for any occasion or craving.
Storage Tips
Proper storage of cherry fritters ensures they stay fresh and maintain their signature crispy exterior with juicy cherry bursts. Follow these steps to extend their shelf life and retain their delicious texture and flavor.
Storing Fresh Cherry Fritters
- Allow the fritters to cool completely on a cooling rack to prevent sogginess.
- Place fritters in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
- Store at room temperature if consuming within 24 hours to keep the crust crisp.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 24 hours | Best for maintaining crispiness |
| Refrigerator | 2 to 3 days | Will soften the crust; reheat before serving |
Refrigerating Cherry Fritters
- If storing for longer than a day, refrigerate the fritters in an airtight container.
- Before serving, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess and loss of texture.
Freezing Cherry Fritters
- To freeze, lay fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Freeze for 1–2 hours until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.
- Label with the freezing date and consume within 1 month.
- To reheat, bake frozen fritters at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until heated through and crisp.
Tips for Maintaining Freshness
“The key to keeping our cherry fritters fresh is controlling moisture and reheating properly.“
- Always cool fritters completely before storing.
- Use paper towels to absorb any residual oil or moisture.
- Avoid stacking fritters directly to prevent steam buildup and sogginess.
By following these Storage Tips we can enjoy our cherry fritters anytime with maximum flavor and crispiness intact.
Conclusion
Cherry fritters offer a delightful way to enjoy fresh cherries in a crispy, flavorful treat. With their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual breakfast or a special dessert.
By having the right tools and following easy make-ahead tips, we can whip up these fritters with confidence and minimal hassle. Plus, their versatility with toppings and sides means there’s always a new way to savor them.
Let’s keep these cherry fritters in our recipe rotation for a sweet, satisfying bite whenever the craving strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cherry fritters?
Cherry fritters are a sweet treat made from fresh cherries mixed into a light, fluffy batter and fried until crispy on the outside. They are juicy inside and perfect as a breakfast item or snack.
What ingredients do I need to make cherry fritters?
You need all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, egg, milk, vanilla extract, fresh pitted cherries, optional cinnamon, vegetable or canola oil for frying, and optionally powdered sugar glaze.
What equipment is essential for making cherry fritters?
Key equipment includes mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring cups and spoons, cherry pitter, slotted spoon, deep frying pan or Dutch oven, cooking thermometer, cooling rack, paper towels, and a small bowl for glaze.
Can I prepare cherry fritters batter and filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it up to 24 hours in the fridge. The cherry filling can be made and flavored up to 48 hours before frying.
How do I get the perfect crispy texture on cherry fritters?
Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F using a thermometer, fry in small batches, and cool fritters on a rack to keep them crispy.
What is the optional glaze for cherry fritters?
The glaze is a simple mixture of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, drizzled over warm fritters for extra sweetness and shine.
How should I serve cherry fritters?
Serve them dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with glaze, or with whipped cream or Greek yogurt. Pairing with fresh fruit, berry compote, or hot drinks makes a great combo.
How do I store leftover cherry fritters?
Cool completely, store in an airtight container lined with paper towels. Keep at room temperature for up to 24 hours, refrigerate 2–3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Can cherry fritters be reheated without losing crispiness?
Yes. Reheat them in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness without making them soggy.
Are cherry fritters suitable for all seasons?
While they are perfect for summer when cherries are in season, frozen cherries can allow you to enjoy fritters year-round.