Nanking cherries are a delightful treat that brings a burst of tart sweetness to any dish. These small, bright red berries have been enjoyed for centuries, prized for their unique flavor and versatility in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just discovering this gem, nanking cherries offer endless possibilities to elevate your recipes.
In our collection of recipes for nanking cherries, you’ll find everything from jams and sauces to baked goods and refreshing beverages. Their natural tang makes them perfect for balancing sweetness and adding depth to both savory and sweet dishes. Let’s explore how these vibrant cherries can transform your cooking with simple, delicious recipes you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
To craft delicious recipes for Nanking cherries, we gather the freshest ingredients. Below, we list essential components that balance the cherries’ natural tartness with complementary flavors and textures.
Fresh Nanking Cherries
Using fresh Nanking cherries is key to unlocking their vibrant, tart-sweet profile in our dishes. Here’s what to prepare:
- 2 cups fresh Nanking cherries, stemmed and pitted
- Optional: extra for garnish or snacking
These cherries offer a bright crimson hue and a juicy bite, essential for both sweet and savory creations.
Sweeteners and Spices
To enhance the natural tang of the cherries, we pair them with the right sweeteners and spices. These ingredients help develop complexity and balance:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 to 1 cup | Sweetens and balances tartness |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons | Adds floral sweetness |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup | Adds depth and caramel notes |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon | Warm spice accent |
| Ground ginger | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds subtle heat and zest |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances overall aroma |
We recommend adjusting sweeteners to taste depending on your preferred level of sweetness and recipe type.
Additional Fruit and Flavorings
Pairing Nanking cherries with other fruits and flavorings amplifies their versatility. Consider:
- 1 cup diced apples or pears (adds texture and natural sweetness)
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange (brightens flavor)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (balances flavors with acidity)
- A handful of fresh mint leaves or basil (for fresh herbal notes in sauce or beverages)
These additions enrich our recipes and bring out the cherries’ best qualities.
Baking and Cooking Essentials
To bring everything together in our Nanking cherries recipes, we rely on staple baking and cooking essentials:
- All-purpose flour (for baked goods) – 1 to 2 cups depending on recipe
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon (for leavening)
- Unsalted butter – 1/2 cup, softened (adds richness)
- Eggs – 1 to 2 large, for binding and structure
- Cornstarch or arrowroot powder – 1 tablespoon (thickens sauces and jams)
- Water or fruit juice – 1/4 to 1/2 cup (for consistency adjustment)
With these carefully selected ingredients, we set the stage for creating vibrant dishes featuring Nanking cherries, balancing the tartness while enhancing flavor and texture.
Equipment Needed
To create delicious recipes for Nanking cherries we rely on specific equipment that ensures efficiency and outstanding results. Below is a detailed list of the essential tools that will help us handle these vibrant berries from preparation to serving:
Essential Tools for Handling Nanking Cherries
- Cherry pitter: Quickly removes pits without damaging the fruit, saving time and preserving freshness.
- Mixing bowls: Various sizes for rinsing, macerating, and mixing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To guarantee precise measurements of sugars, spices, and liquids.
- Fine mesh strainer: For rinsing cherries thoroughly and straining juices or sauces.
- Cutting board and paring knife: For trimming stems and any unwanted parts.
Cooking and Baking Equipment
- Heavy-bottom saucepan: Ideal for simmering jams, sauces, and reductions without scorching.
- Saucepan lid: Retains moisture and controls cooking intensity.
- Wooden spoons or silicone spatulas: Heat-resistant utensils for stirring mixtures continuously.
- Baking pans or ramekins: Used for cobblers, crisps, or tarts showcasing Nanking cherries.
- Oven thermometer: Ensures accuracy for baked goods involving cherries.
Additional Recommended Equipment
- Food processor or blender: For pureeing cherries into smooth sauces or beverages.
- Canning jars and lids: Perfect for preserving homemade cherry jams and jellies.
- Candy thermometer: Useful when making preserves or syrups from Nanking cherries to reach the proper consistency.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cherry pitter | Remove pits efficiently |
| Mixing bowls | Combine and marinate ingredients |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Exact ingredient measuring |
| Fine mesh strainer | Rinse and strain fruit and juices |
| Cutting board & knife | Trim and prepare cherries |
| Heavy-bottom saucepan | Simmer jams and sauces |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stir mixtures without damage |
| Baking pans/ramekins | Bake cherry desserts |
| Oven thermometer | Maintain precise baking temperature |
| Food processor/blender | Puree cherries for sauces and drinks |
| Canning jars & lids | Preserve homemade cherry products |
| Candy thermometer | Identify correct syrup/jam consistency |
By having the right equipment at hand we ensure every step in our Nanking cherry recipes is smooth, from fresh fruit preparation to perfect final presentation. These tools help us maximize the cherries’ natural tart sweetness and create vibrant dishes worthy of sharing.
Prep Work
Before diving into our delicious recipes for Nanking Cherries, proper preparation is essential to maximize flavor and texture. Let’s ensure our cherries and accompanying ingredients are perfectly prepped for the best results.
Washing and Pitting Nanking Cherries
Thoroughly washing Nanking cherries removes dirt and potential residues, ensuring they are clean and ready for cooking or baking.
- Rinse the cherries under cool running water using a fine mesh strainer.
- Gently toss the cherries to clean all surfaces without bruising.
- Drain thoroughly and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
For removing pits, we recommend:
| Method | Description | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry Pitter | Use a device designed to eject pits cleanly | Works fastest and preserves cherry shape |
| Manual Pitting | Use a small paring knife to slice and remove the pit | Best for small batches; careful to avoid waste |
“Using a cherry pitter significantly speeds up the process and keeps the fruit intact for attractive presentation.”
Preparing Other Ingredients
While the Nanking cherries are prepped, we also prepare supporting ingredients to streamline the cooking process:
- Measure sweeteners like granulated sugar, honey, or brown sugar precisely using standard measuring cups.
- Chop or grate spices such as cinnamon or fresh ginger, ensuring even distribution.
- Prepare additional fruits or flavorings by washing, peeling, or chopping as needed.
- Line baking pans or sterilize canning jars if preservation is involved.
Organizing ingredients in this manner keeps our workflow efficient and focused, allowing the vibrant tartness of the Nanking cherries to shine in every dish we create.
Recipes For Nanking Cherries
Discover how to transform Nanking cherries into delightful treats that balance their vibrant tartness with sweetness. Below we share a range of recipes that highlight the unique flavor of these berries.
Nanking Cherry Jam
Making Nanking cherry jam is a fantastic way to preserve their bright, tangy flavor for year-round enjoyment. Our method focuses on maximizing the cherries’ natural taste while achieving the perfect jam consistency.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh nanking cherries, pitted
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cherries: Rinse the nanking cherries thoroughly and remove pits with a cherry pitter.
- Combine fruit and sugar: In a large heavy-bottom saucepan, mix cherries and sugar. Let sit for 30 minutes to macerate, encouraging the fruit juices to release.
- Cook the mixture: Place saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until sugar dissolves.
- Add lemon juice: Stir in fresh lemon juice and cinnamon, which balances tartness and adds warmth.
- Boil and thicken: Bring mixture to a rolling boil. Reduce heat slightly. Stir frequently for 20-25 minutes until jam thickens. To test, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and check if it gels after cooling.
- Jar the jam: Pour hot jam into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Seal immediately.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Nanking cherries | 4 cups | Main fruit, provides tart flavor |
| Granulated sugar | 3 cups | Sweetens and preserves |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Balances tartness, improves gel |
| Ground cinnamon (opt) | 1 teaspoon | Adds warm spice note |
This Nanking cherry jam bursts with flavor and is perfect on toast, swirled in yogurt, or paired with cheese boards.
Nanking Cherry Pie
Our Nanking Cherry Pie perfectly balances the tartness of fresh nanking cherries with a flaky, buttery crust. This classic dessert showcases the cherries’ vibrant flavor in every bite, making it a seasonal favorite.
Pie Crust Preparation
To create a tender and flaky crust, precise measurements and cold ingredients are essential.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, quickly cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
- Gradually add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just starts to come together. Avoid overworking the dough.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Flatten each into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Cherry Filling Preparation
The filling highlights the fresh cherries’ tartness while adding just enough sweetness and texture to complement the crust.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Nanking cherries | 5 cups, pitted | Main fruit, tart and juicy |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Balances tartness |
| Cornstarch | 3 tbsp | Thickens filling |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Enhances tart flavor |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ tsp (optional) | Warm spice note |
| Salt | ⅛ tsp | Enhances sweetness and flavor |
Instructions:
- Rinse and pit the fresh nanking cherries thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Toss gently until evenly mixed.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the juices to blend and the cornstarch to begin thickening.
Baking Directions
Follow these steps to bake a golden crust filled with vibrant, bubbling cherry goodness.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, letting excess dough hang over the edges.
- Pour the cherry filling evenly into the crust.
- Roll out the second dough disk to cover the pie. Trim the excess dough to 1 inch beyond the pan edge.
- Fold and crimp the edges to seal the crusts together.
- Cut 4-5 small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Optional: Brush the top crust with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tbsp water) for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Let the pie cool at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Nanking Cherry Sauce
A vibrant and tangy Nanking Cherry Sauce is a versatile addition to both sweet and savory dishes. This sauce harnesses the rich tartness of fresh nanking cherries balanced with sweetness and spices to create a flavorful condiment.
Ingredients for Sauce
- 4 cups fresh Nanking cherries (pitted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (for cornstarch slurry)
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the cherries: Rinse the fresh nanking cherries thoroughly and remove pits using a cherry pitter for efficiency.
- Combine base ingredients: In a medium heavy-bottom saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Stir well to mix.
- Cook the sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve sugar and prevent sticking.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Stir frequently until cherries soften and release their juices, creating a rich red hue.
- Optional thickening: If a thicker sauce is desired, mix the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly pour this into the simmering sauce while stirring constantly.
- Final boil: Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Cool and serve: Remove from heat. Let the Nanking Cherry Sauce cool to room temperature before serving. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, desserts, or as a spread.
| Step | Action | Time/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rinse and pit cherries | Use cherry pitter |
| 2 | Mix ingredients in saucepan | Medium heat |
| 3 | Bring to boil | Stir occasionally |
| 4 | Simmer uncovered | 15-20 minutes |
| 5 | Add cornstarch slurry (optional) | Mix slowly while stirring |
| 6 | Final boil with thickener | 2-3 minutes |
| 7 | Cool and serve | Room temperature |
Nanking Cherry Smoothie
A refreshing way to enjoy the tart sweetness of nanking cherries is in a vibrant smoothie. This recipe combines the cherries with creamy and naturally sweet ingredients for a balanced and energizing drink.
Ingredients for Smoothie
- 1 cup fresh or frozen nanking cherries, pitted
- 1 ripe banana, peeled
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess and protein)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (to complement the cherries’ tartness)
- A handful of ice cubes (optional, for thickness and chill)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh or frozen nanking cherries | 1 cup | Tart flavor base |
| Banana | 1 ripe | Natural sweetness and creaminess |
| Plain Greek yogurt | 1/2 cup | Adds protein and smooth texture |
| Almond milk | 1/2 cup | Liquefies and blends ingredients |
| Honey or maple syrup | 1 tablespoon (optional) | Enhances sweetness if desired |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/4 teaspoon | Provides warm spice note |
| Ice cubes | A handful (optional) | Thickens and chills the smoothie |
Blending Instructions
- Prepare the cherries by washing and pitting them thoroughly to remove any bitterness from the pits.
- Place the nanking cherries, banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey (if using), and ground cinnamon into a blender.
- Add a handful of ice cubes if you prefer a colder, thicker smoothie.
- Blend on high speed for 30 to 45 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no visible chunks.
- Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup if needed. Blend again briefly to mix.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately for the freshest flavor and best texture.
This nanking cherry smoothie bursts with the vibrant tartness of cherries balanced by creamy banana and yogurt, making it a nutritious and delicious treat any time of day.
Storage Tips for Nanking Cherry Dishes
Proper storage preserves the vibrant flavors and textures of our Nanking cherry creations. Below we outline essential steps to maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of each dish.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Cool dishes completely before refrigeration to prevent condensation and spoilage.
- Store Nanking cherry jam, pies, and sauces in airtight containers or covered dishes to maintain freshness.
- Use glass jars with tight lids for jams and sauces to preserve flavor and avoid odor absorption.
- Keep refrigerated dishes at 40°F (4°C) or below to inhibit bacterial growth.
Freezing Instructions
- Allow cooked dishes such as Nanking cherry sauce and pie fillings to cool fully before freezing.
- Use heavy-duty freezer bags or freezer-safe containers, removing excess air for best results.
- Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Most Nanking cherry dishes last well in the freezer for up to 6 months with proper sealing.
Shelf Life Overview
| Dish Type | Refrigeration Duration | Freezing Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Nanking Cherry Jam | Up to 3 weeks | Up to 1 year |
| Nanking Cherry Pie | 3 to 4 days | Up to 6 months |
| Nanking Cherry Sauce | 1 to 2 weeks | Up to 6 months |
| Nanking Cherry Smoothie | Consume within 24 hrs | Not recommended |
Additional Tips for Optimal Storage
- Always store Nanking cherry dishes away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve color and flavor.
- When freezing, divide dishes into smaller portions for easy thawing and to reduce waste.
- Thaw frozen dishes slowly in the refrigerator to maintain texture and taste.
- For homemade jams and sauces, consider water bath canning to safely preserve for longer storage at room temperature.
“Storing our Nanking cherry dishes correctly allows us to enjoy their bright tartness and rich flavors long after the cooking is done.“
By following these storage tips, we maintain the freshness, taste, and safety of every delightful Nanking cherry recipe we prepare.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To enjoy the full spectrum of nanking cherry flavor and streamline our cooking process, proper make-ahead preparation is essential. Follow these steps to get the most out of your nanking cherry recipes, whether you’re making jam, pie, sauce, or smoothies.
Step 1: Preparing and Storing Fresh Nanking Cherries
- Wash and pit the cherries thoroughly using a cherry pitter to save time later.
- Spread them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze the cherries in a single layer to prevent clumping.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Washing | Rinse under cold running water |
| Pitting | Use a cherry pitter for efficiency |
| Freezing | Spread on parchment-lined tray |
| Storage | Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers |
Once frozen, sealed cherries keep their vibrant tartness and texture for up to 6 months, ensuring convenience for last-minute baking or cooking needs.
Step 2: Pre-Mixing Dry Ingredients
For recipes such as nanking cherry jam or pie filling, we can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time:
- Combine sugars (granulated, brown, or honey alternatives) with spices such as cinnamon or ginger.
- Store these pre-mixed dry blends in airtight containers or resealable bags.
- Label contents with date and intended recipe for quick access.
This technique eliminates guesswork and boosts recipe accuracy, helping to maintain balanced flavors.
Step 3: Preparing Sauces and Jams in Advance
- Complete cooking process for jams or sauces.
- Cool completely at room temperature.
- Transfer to sterilized jars or airtight containers.
- Refrigerate or freeze based on consumption timeline.
“Proper cooling and storage extend freshness and preserve the distinctive nanking cherry flavor profile.”
Step 4: Prepping Baking Components
For pies or baked goods:
- Prepare crust dough and chill it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- Combine fillings (pitted cherries mixed with sugar and thickeners) and store refrigerated up to 24 hours.
- This allows ingredients to marry and intensify flavors before baking.
| Prep Component | Storage Method | Max Storage Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pie crust dough | Wrapped in plastic wrap | 2 days refrigerated |
| Cherry fillings | Airtight container | 24 hours refrigerated |
Step 5: Smoothie Ingredients Ready-to-Go
- Portion frozen cherries, banana slices, and spices in freezer-safe bags.
- Pre-measure yogurt and liquid base (almond milk) in containers.
- When ready, combine all and blend for a quick refreshing smoothie.
Utilizing these make-ahead steps guarantees a hassle-free cooking experience and consistent flavor quality when working with nanking cherries.
Serving Suggestions
Nanking cherries bring a vibrant tart sweetness that enhances a wide variety of dishes. Here are several Serving Suggestions to showcase their versatility and highlight their unique flavor:
1. As a Spread or Topping
- Spread our homemade Nanking Cherry Jam on warm toasted bread, bagels, or English muffins.
- Spoon Nanking Cherry Sauce over vanilla ice cream, pancakes, or waffles for a tangy contrast.
2. Complement to Cheese and Charcuterie Boards
- Pair fresh or preserved nanking cherries with sharp cheeses like aged cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese.
- Add a few dollops of cherry sauce as a vibrant accent alongside cured meats such as prosciutto or salami.
3. Savory Dish Enhancements
- Drizzle Nanking Cherry Sauce over roasted chicken or pork tenderloin to balance savory richness with fruit acidity.
- Use the sauce as a glaze for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
4. In Baked Goods
- Incorporate pitted nanking cherries into muffins, scones, or quick breads for bursts of tart flavor.
- Use Nanking Cherry Pie filling to create classic desserts that celebrate seasonal fruit.
5. Refreshing Beverages
- Blend Nanking Cherry Smoothies for a nutritious and flavorful breakfast or snack option.
- Stir cherry sauce into sparkling water or cocktails for a vibrant homemade mixer.
| Serving Idea | Recommended Dish Examples | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spread or topping | Toast, pancakes, ice cream | Tart-sweet contrast |
| Cheese and charcuterie board | Aged cheddar, blue cheese, prosciutto | Balances salty richness |
| Savory dishes | Roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, grilled meats | Enhances savory depth |
| Baked goods | Muffins, scones, pies | Adds juicy, tangy dimension |
| Refreshing beverages | Smoothies, cocktails, sparkling water | Brightens and sweetens drinks |
“Nanking cherries truly shine when paired with creamy, salty, or rich flavors, offering a perfect balance that excites the palate.“
We encourage experimenting with these Serving Suggestions to discover your favorite ways to enjoy the delightful tang of nanking cherries.
Conclusion
Nanking cherries offer a unique burst of tart sweetness that can brighten up countless recipes. With the right ingredients and tools, we can easily bring out their vibrant flavor in jams, pies, sauces, and even smoothies.
By preparing and storing these dishes properly, we ensure their deliciousness lasts well beyond the season. Exploring different ways to serve nanking cherries opens up exciting opportunities to add a fresh twist to both sweet and savory meals.
Let’s keep experimenting and enjoying the wonderful versatility of these delightful berries in our kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are nanking cherries?
Nanking cherries are small, tart, and sweet berries known for their vibrant flavor. They are popular in cooking and can be used in jams, sauces, baked goods, and beverages.
What ingredients complement nanking cherries in recipes?
Common complementary ingredients include granulated sugar, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, lemon juice, and additional fruits. These help balance the cherries’ tartness and enhance flavor.
What tools do I need to prepare nanking cherry recipes?
Essential tools include a cherry pitter, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a fine mesh strainer, heavy-bottom saucepan, wooden spoons, baking pans, and optionally a food processor and canning jars.
How should I prepare nanking cherries before cooking?
Wash the cherries thoroughly and use a cherry pitter to remove pits. Prepare sweeteners and spices ahead of time to streamline the cooking process and maximize flavor.
How do I make nanking cherry jam?
Combine fresh pitted cherries with sugar and lemon juice, cook until thickened, and optionally add cinnamon. The jam is perfect for spreading or pairing with cheese.
What makes a great nanking cherry pie?
A flaky, buttery crust and a filling of fresh pitted cherries mixed with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Baking until golden creates a perfect tart dessert.
How can I use nanking cherry sauce?
Nanking cherry sauce is a tangy condiment ideal for roasted meats, desserts, pancakes, or as a spread. It’s made by simmering cherries with sugar, lemon juice, and spices.
What goes into a nanking cherry smoothie?
Fresh or frozen cherries blended with banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey or syrup, cinnamon, and ice makes a creamy, nutritious drink.
How do I store nanking cherry dishes?
Refrigerate completely cooled dishes in airtight containers and freeze using heavy-duty bags labeled with dates. Follow shelf life guidelines for best flavor retention.
Can I prepare nanking cherry recipes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep cherries, pre-mix dry ingredients, and make sauces or jams in advance to save time and enhance flavors before cooking.
What are some serving suggestions for nanking cherries?
Use jam on toast, sauce on ice cream or meats, add cherries to baked goods, or blend into smoothies and cocktails for a delicious tart twist.