There’s something magical about the sweet-tart burst of dried red tart cherries. These little gems pack a punch of flavor that elevates both savory and sweet dishes. Whether we’re tossing them into salads, baking them into desserts, or mixing them into hearty grain bowls, they always bring a delightful tang and chewy texture to the table.
Not only are they delicious, but dried red tart cherries are also packed with nutrients. They’re a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a versatile ingredient we can feel good about using. Plus, their long shelf life means we can keep them on hand for whenever inspiration strikes.
Dried Red Tart Cherry Recipes
Let’s dive into some delicious creations featuring dried red tart cherries. These recipes show how versatile this ingredient is—perfect for everything from breakfast to desserts and even savory dishes. Below, we share step-by-step guidance to inspire your kitchen adventures.
1. Dried Red Tart Cherry Granola Bars
Packed with energy and bursting with flavor, this is a great snack for on-the-go days.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup dried red tart cherries (roughly chopped)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth)
- 1/3 cup unsalted almonds (roughly chopped)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine rolled oats, cherries, and almonds in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small saucepan, heat the honey and peanut butter over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is fully coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the lined pan using the back of a spatula or your hands.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until lightly golden on the edges. Allow it to cool completely before slicing into bars.
2. Cherry-Infused Balsamic Glaze for Savory Dishes
This tangy, sweet glaze pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried red tart cherries
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Steps:
- In a small saucepan, combine cherries and balsamic vinegar. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Stir in honey and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Blend the mixture using an immersion blender until smooth, or use as-is for a chunkier texture.
- Drizzle over your favorite roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or pork chops.
3. Dried Red Tart Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
Chewy, sweet, and a tad tart, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup dried red tart cherries
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in rolled oats and cherries.
- Scoop dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Let cool before serving.
Recipe Notes:
Below is a quick comparison of cook times and serving sizes for these recipes:
| Recipe | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Granola Bars | 10 minutes | 20-25 minutes | 12 bars |
| Balsamic Glaze | 5 minutes | 10-12 minutes | 4 servings |
| Oatmeal Cookies | 15 minutes | 10-12 minutes | 24 cookies |
Keep these Dried Red Tart Cherry Recipes in your rotation for everything from snack prep to entertaining guests. Their distinct flavor elevates any dish, giving us a nutritious and tasty result.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to bring out the unique flavor of dried red tart cherries in the recipes we prepared. Each item is listed with specific measurements for accuracy:
1. Dried Red Tart Cherry Granola Bars
- 1 ½ cups dried red tart cherries, roughly chopped
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup almond butter
- ⅓ cup sunflower seeds
- ½ cup chopped almonds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
2. Cherry-Infused Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup dried red tart cherries
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
3. Dried Red Tart Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ¾ cup dried red tart cherries
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Pro Tip: Use unsweetened dried red tart cherries for better control over the sweetness in your recipes!
Ingredient Measurement Table
| Ingredient | Measurement | Recipes Used |
|---|---|---|
| Dried Red Tart Cherries | 1 ½ cups | Granola Bars |
| 1 cup | Balsamic Glaze and Cookies | |
| Rolled Oats | 2 cups and 1 cup | Granola Bars and Cookies |
| Balsamic Vinegar | ½ cup | Cherry-Infused Balsamic Glaze |
| Honey | ½ cup | Granola Bars |
Tools And Equipment Needed
To create the delicious recipes featuring dried red tart cherries, we need to ensure that we have the right tools and equipment on hand. Using the appropriate tools not only makes the preparation process smoother but also enhances the end result. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for each recipe we’ve covered:
General Tools for All Recipes
The following items are essential across all dried red tart cherry recipes for preparation, mixing, and cooking:
- Mixing Bowls: For combining and mixing ingredients efficiently. A set of various sizes is ideal.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are critical for perfect results.
- Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring mixtures without scratching your bowls or pans.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping dried cherries and other ingredients cleanly.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup, especially for baked goods.
Recipe-Specific Tools
Dried Red Tart Cherry Granola Bars
This no-bake recipe requires tools for both mixing and shaping the bars.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 8×8 or 9×9 Baking Dish | Used to mold the bars into their signature shape. |
| Nonstick Spray or Wax Paper | Prevents sticking when packing the mixture into the dish. |
| Heavy-Duty Spatula | Compresses the granola evenly for firm and uniform bars. |
Cherry-Infused Balsamic Glaze
Crafting this flavorful glaze involves stovetop cooking and reducing sauce to perfection.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Small Saucepan | Essential for simmering and reducing the glaze. |
| Whisk | Ensures smooth incorporation of dried cherries and brown sugar. |
| Fine-Mesh Strainer | Helps remove solids for a velvety, smooth glaze (optional). |
Dried Red Tart Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
Baking these chewy cookies requires precise mixing and baking tools.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer | Creams butter and sugar to achieve a fluffy texture. |
| Baking Sheets | Provides a flat surface for even cookie baking. |
| Silicone Baking Mat | Reusable and non-stick alternative to parchment paper. |
| Cookie Scoop | Ensures consistent cookie sizing for uniform baking. |
Additional Handy Items
- Cooling Rack: Crucial for cooling granola bars and cookies completely without trapping steam.
- Airtight Containers: Perfect for storing prepared dishes like granola bars or cookies, maintaining their freshness.
- Kitchen Timer: Guarantees precise cooking time, especially crucial for the glaze reduction and cookie baking.
By assembling these tools and equipment, we’re ready to explore the endless culinary possibilities created by versatile and flavorful dried red tart cherries.
Directions
Let’s transform dried red tart cherries into three delightful recipes: Dried Red Tart Cherry Granola Bars, Cherry-Infused Balsamic Glaze, and Dried Red Tart Cherry Oatmeal Cookies. Follow our step-by-step instructions below to ensure perfect results every time.
Prep The Ingredients
- For Granola Bars: Chop the dried red tart cherries into small, even pieces. Measure all other ingredients like rolled oats, honey, almond butter, and spices. Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- For Balsamic Glaze: Soak dried cherries in water for 10 minutes to soften them. Prepare the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and water.
- For Oatmeal Cookies: Soften unsalted butter and chop the dried cherries into bite-sized bits. Pre-measure flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and baking soda. Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare The Dough Or Batter
- Granola Bars: Combine chopped dried cherries, oats, honey, and almond butter in a large bowl. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture until well coated and sticky.
- Balsamic Glaze: In a saucepan, add soaked cherries, water, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar. Whisk together over medium heat.
- Oatmeal Cookies: Cream softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Blend in an egg and vanilla extract. Gradually fold in the flour mixture and finally stir in the rolled oats.
Add Dried Red Tart Cherries
- Granola Bars: Gently fold in the chopped dried cherries last to ensure even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Balsamic Glaze: Continue simmering the mixture, mashing the softened cherries with the back of the spoon to release their juices fully.
- Oatmeal Cookies: Fold the chopped dried cherries evenly into the dough to ensure every bite includes that tart, chewy goodness.
Baking Or Cooking Instructions
| Recipe | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Granola Bars | 325°F (165°C) | Bake for 20-25 minutes | Press mixture firmly into the dish before baking. Let them cool before slicing. |
| Cherry-Infused Glaze | Stove over low heat | Simmer for 15-20 minutes | Stir occasionally. Strain after cooking for a smooth glaze. |
| Oatmeal Cookies | 350°F (175°C) | Bake for 10-12 minutes | Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet. Let cool on a wire rack afterward. |
Once ready, enjoy the versatility of dried red tart cherries in every bite! Store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning ahead makes cooking with dried red tart cherries both efficient and enjoyable. These recipes are ideal for make-ahead preparations, allowing us to save time while ensuring the flavors remain fresh and vibrant. Below, we’ve outlined the best ways to prepare each dish ahead without compromising on taste or texture.
Dried Red Tart Cherry Granola Bars
To ensure these granola bars are ready when needed, follow these steps:
- Prepare the Bars: Mix and bake the bars as directed. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Cut and Store: Slice the cooled bars into even portions using a sharp knife. Wrap each bar individually in parchment paper for portability.
- Storage: Place the wrapped bars in an airtight container and refrigerate, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.
Cherry-Infused Balsamic Glaze
This glaze can be prepped ahead and stored for later use:
- Prepare and Cool: Cook the glaze and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Storage: Pour the glaze into a clean, airtight glass jar to retain its flavor.
- Shelf-Life: Refrigerate the sealed jar for up to 2 weeks. Gently reheat it on the stove or microwave and give it a whisk before serving.
Dried Red Tart Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
Batches of these cookies can be made ahead and stored raw or baked:
- Prepare the Dough: Follow the recipe to prepare the cookie dough.
- To bake later: Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When ready to bake, place them directly into the oven without thawing, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- To store baked cookies: Once baked and completely cooled, layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container.
- Freezing Timeline: Dough balls can be frozen for up to 3 months, while baked cookies stay fresh for 1 week at room temperature or up to 1 month frozen.
Quick Reference Table
| Recipe | Make-Ahead Component | Storage Option | Shelf-Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Granola Bars | Fully baked bars | Airtight container | 7 days, 2 months frozen |
| Balsamic Glaze | Fully prepared glaze | Sealed glass jar | 2 weeks refrigerated |
| Oatmeal Cookie Dough | Raw dough balls | Freezer-safe container | 3 months frozen |
| Baked Oatmeal Cookies | Fully baked cookies | Airtight container | 1 week or 1 month frozen |
By following these make-ahead tips, you can always have delicious meals and snacks featuring dried red tart cherries right at your fingertips, ready to enjoy or serve.
Tips For Success
When working with dried red tart cherries, a few expert tips will ensure your recipes turn out perfectly every time. Whether you are preparing baked goods like cookies or crafting infused toppings like balsamic glaze, these tried-and-true suggestions will elevate the results.
1. Choose Quality Dried Red Tart Cherries
- Opt for unsweetened dried red tart cherries to maintain control over the sweetness level in your recipes. These provide the best tart flavor balance, especially in savory applications.
- Check the packaging for freshness. Dried cherries should be soft yet plump—avoid overly hard or dry cherries, as they can impact texture.
2. Prepping Dried Cherries
- Soften cherries before use in certain recipes like glazes or cookies. To do this, soak the cherries in hot water, juice, or even alcohol (like cherry brandy) for about 10 minutes for a plump texture.
- Chop dried cherries evenly if the recipe requires smaller pieces to ensure consistency in flavor distribution.
3. Measure Accurately
- Use a kitchen scale when a recipe calls for weight measurements. For reference:
| Measurement | Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 1 cup dried cherries | 140 grams |
| ½ cup cherries | 70 grams |
- Measuring with precision ensures your baked goods, glazes, or bars have the ideal balance of structure and flavor.
4. Control Temperature During Preparation
- When baking, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for even mixing, especially for the Dried Red Tart Cherry Oatmeal Cookies.
- For stovetop recipes like the Cherry-Infused Balsamic Glaze, maintain a low simmer to prevent burning or caramelizing sugar prematurely.
5. Use Nonstick Tools and Parchment Paper
- Protect your baked goods by lining baking pans with parchment paper for easy removal.
- A silicone spatula works wonders for mixing sticky ingredients like almond butter and honey in the Granola Bars Recipe.
6. Storage Best Practices
- After baking or preparation, let items cool completely before transferring them to storage containers. This prevents condensation that could lead to sogginess.
- Store finished recipes in airtight containers to keep them fresh. Always label your containers with the preparation date for easy tracking. Refer to this table for shelf-life guidance:
| Recipe | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Granola Bars | Refrigerated/Frozen | 7 days (refrigerated), 2 months (frozen) |
| Balsamic Glaze | Sealed jar in refrigerator | 2 weeks |
| Oatmeal Cookies | Airtight container at room temperature | 3-5 days |
7. Experiment Boldly
- Don’t shy away from experimenting with dried red tart cherries. Their tangy flavor complements chocolate, nuts, grains, and balsamic vinegar, making them versatile in both sweet and savory recipes.
- Consider substituting dried tart cherries for raisins or cranberries in your favorite recipes to add a new layer of flavor.
Pro Tip: Always taste the cherries before adding them to your recipe to assess their natural tartness or sweetness, and adjust your other ingredients accordingly.
With these tips in mind, we can confidently craft delicious and well-textured dishes where the unique flavor of dried red tart cherries shines brightly.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying dried red tart cherries, the possibilities are endless. These versatile gems can elevate both everyday meals and indulgent treats. Whether you prefer sweet applications, savory enhancements, or creative beverages, incorporating dried red tart cherries can instantly amplify the flavor. Below, we’ve outlined some irresistible serving ideas for every occasion.
1. Breakfast Boosts
- Sprinkle on Morning Favorites: Add a handful of dried red tart cherries to oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, or smoothie bowls for bursts of sweet-tart flavor.
- In Pancakes or Waffles: Fold chopped cherries into batter to create fruity bites in every mouthful.
- Baking Additions: Stir them into muffins, scones, or quick bread for a delightful chewiness.
2. Salad Enhancements
- Top Salads for Sweet & Savory Contrasts: Toss a few dried cherries into green salads with arugula, spinach, or kale alongside nuts and cheese for texture and balanced flavors.
- Pair with Grains: Combine them with quinoa, farro, or couscous and dress with a light vinaigrette for a hearty, healthy lunch.
3. Snacking Solutions
- Trail Mix Superstar: Combine dried red tart cherries with almonds, cashews, dark chocolate chips, and sunflower seeds for an energizing on-the-go option.
- Straight From the Bag: Enjoy them alone as a quick, fuss-free snack when you’re in the mood for something naturally sweet and tart.
4. Savory Pairings
- Meat Marinades & Glazes: Rehydrate dried cherries and blend them into marinades or glazes for chicken, pork, or duck. The tangy flavor beautifully complements rich meats.
- Stuffing or Savory Sides: Incorporate them into rice pilaf or stuffing mixes for an unexpected layer of sweetness.
5. Desserts and Baking Delights
- Chocolate Pairings: Dip dried red tart cherries in dark or white chocolate for easy homemade treats.
- Upgrade Cookies and Bars: Use them in brownies, blondies, or oatmeal cookies for extra depth of flavor.
- Cherry-Studded Cheesecake: Sprinkle them on top of cheesecakes or fold into batter for a decadent twist.
6. Beverage Infusions
- Cocktails with a Twist: Muddle dried cherries into mojitos, sangrias, or Old Fashioned cocktails for a fruity spin.
- Homemade Tea or Hydration: Steep them in hot water to make a delicious tart cherry tea or add them to your water bottle for subtle flavor.
Storage Tip for Ready Use
Keep leftover dried red tart cherries in airtight containers or resealable bags to maintain their plump texture. They last several months in a pantry when kept dry, making them an excellent ingredient to have on hand for all the above suggestions.
Conclusion
Dried red tart cherries bring a unique blend of flavor, nutrition, and versatility to the table. Whether you’re crafting a wholesome breakfast, a savory sauce, or a sweet treat, these little gems elevate every dish they touch. Their long shelf life and ease of use make them a must-have ingredient for any kitchen.
Let’s embrace the endless possibilities they offer and get creative with our cooking. With the right tools, quality ingredients, and a dash of inspiration, dried red tart cherries can transform ordinary recipes into something truly memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the nutritional benefits of dried red tart cherries?
Dried red tart cherries are a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They contribute to overall health by supporting immunity, reducing inflammation, and promoting heart health.
How can dried red tart cherries be used in recipes?
Dried red tart cherries are versatile and can be incorporated into both sweet and savory dishes. They are great for baking, salads, granola bars, sauces, marinades, and even beverages.
What are some recipe ideas using dried red tart cherries?
Popular recipes include Dried Red Tart Cherry Granola Bars, Cherry-Infused Balsamic Glaze, and Dried Red Tart Cherry Oatmeal Cookies. Each recipe enhances their unique flavor.
How should dried red tart cherries be stored?
To maintain freshness, store dried red tart cherries in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration or freezing can extend their shelf life further.
Can dried red tart cherries be made ahead for recipes?
Yes, dried red tart cherries can be prepped in advance. For example, granola bars can be refrigerated for 7 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
What tools are essential for cooking with dried red tart cherries?
Basic tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups, spatulas, knives, and parchment paper. Recipe-specific tools like baking sheets or saucepans may also be required.
Should I use sweetened or unsweetened dried cherries for recipes?
It’s recommended to use unsweetened dried cherries for better control over the sweetness in recipes. You can always add sweeteners if needed.
How can dried red tart cherries be added to everyday meals?
Add them to oatmeal, trail mixes, salads, yogurt, marinades, or desserts for an instant flavor boost. They also pair well with cheeses and nuts.
Are dried red tart cherries suitable for snacking?
Yes, dried red tart cherries make an excellent snack option. They are naturally flavorful, nutritious, and can be enjoyed on their own or mixed with nuts and seeds.
Can I substitute dried red tart cherries with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! You can substitute them with dried cranberries, raisins, or dried blueberries, but note that the unique tart flavor of cherries may differ.
What is the shelf life of dried red tart cherries?
Dried red tart cherries can last several months if stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For extended freshness, refrigerate or freeze them.
Why are nonstick tools recommended when baking with dried cherries?
Nonstick tools and parchment paper prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of baked goods, making cleanup quick and hassle-free.
Are dried red tart cherries suitable for beverages?
Yes, dried red tart cherries can be infused into cocktails, mocktails, teas, and even used to flavor simple syrups for unique drink creations.
What are some expert tips for cooking with dried red tart cherries?
Choose high-quality cherries, measure ingredients accurately, and ensure proper storage. Prepping cherries before use and controlling cooking temperatures also improve results.