Oh, ground cherries! These little bursts of sunshine are the secret weapon your sweet tooth has been dreaming of. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore the kitchen, our roundup of 18 delicious ground cherry recipes is here to inspire. From pies to jams, and everything in between, get ready to fall in love with these versatile gems. Let’s dive into the sweetness!
Ground Cherry Pie
This summer, I stumbled upon a basket of ground cherries at my local farmers’ market, and I knew I had to turn them into something special. Their sweet, tropical flavor reminded me of my grandma’s kitchen, where pies were always the star of the show. So, here’s my take on a Ground Cherry Pie that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ground cherries, husked
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 pie crusts (9-inch)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges, leaving a 1-inch overhang.
- Pour the ground cherry mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim, seal, and crimp the edges. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water. Brush this mixture over the top crust for a golden finish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
- Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to set.
With its flaky crust and juicy, sweet-tart filling, this Ground Cherry Pie is a summer delight. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Ground Cherry Jam
Ground cherries have always been a hidden gem in my garden, their sweet, tropical flavor tucked away in papery husks. I remember the first time I made Ground Cherry Jam; it was a late summer afternoon, and the kitchen was filled with the most incredible aroma. Now, it’s a staple in my pantry, perfect for spreading on toast or dolloping over vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
- 4 cups ground cherries, husked
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp calcium water (for no-sugar-needed pectin)
- 1 tsp no-sugar-needed pectin
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 1 hour to macerate, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the mixture to a large pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Once boiling, add the calcium water and pectin, stirring vigorously to ensure they’re fully incorporated.
- Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15 minutes, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Test the jam’s consistency by placing a small amount on a chilled plate. If it gels to your liking, it’s ready.
- Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, then seal with lids and rings.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a good seal.
Zesty and vibrant, this Ground Cherry Jam has a unique flavor that’s both sweet and slightly tart. Try swirling it into yogurt or using it as a glaze for roasted meats to add a surprising twist to your meals.
Ground Cherry Salsa
Discovering the perfect balance between sweet and tangy in a salsa has always been my culinary quest, and this Ground Cherry Salsa is a testament to that journey. It’s a vibrant, unexpected twist on traditional salsa that’s become a staple in my summer entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ground cherries, husked and halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the halved ground cherries, diced red onion, and minced jalapeño.
- Pour the lime juice over the mixture, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated. Tip: Fresh lime juice elevates the flavors significantly compared to bottled.
- Gently fold in the chopped cilantro and sprinkle with salt. Tip: Letting the salsa sit for 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir the salsa once more before transferring to a serving bowl. Tip: For an extra kick, leave some jalapeño seeds in the mix.
How this salsa comes together is nothing short of magical—the ground cherries offer a sweet pop against the heat of the jalapeño, while the lime and cilantro bring it all into harmony. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips or as a fresh topping for grilled fish to really let its flavors shine.
Ground Cherry Cobbler
Many summers ago, I stumbled upon ground cherries at a local farmer’s market, their papery husks hiding sweet, tropical-flavored gems. Since then, making this cobbler has become my go-to when these little fruits are in season, blending their unique taste with a buttery, golden topping that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 4 cups ground cherries, husked
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the ground cherries, 1/2 cup of sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until just combined to avoid a tough topping.
- Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared dish, then dollop the batter over the top, spreading lightly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
- Let cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the juices to thicken slightly.
Now, this cobbler shines with its contrast of textures—the juicy, vibrant fruit beneath a crisp, cakey topping. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels like summer in every bite.
Ground Cherry Muffins
Ground cherries have this magical way of popping up in my garden every summer, and I always find myself scrambling for new ways to use them. This year, I decided to experiment with turning these sweet, tangy little fruits into muffins, and let me tell you, the result was nothing short of delightful.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.25 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup ground cherries, husked
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups all-purpose flour, 0.5 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, and 0.25 tsp salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix 0.5 cup milk, 0.25 cup vegetable oil, 1 large egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Tip: Make sure all your wet ingredients are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the muffins tender.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of husked ground cherries into the batter. Tip: If your ground cherries are on the larger side, halving them can distribute their flavor more evenly throughout the muffins.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Tip: Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Kicking off your morning with one of these muffins is a game-changer. The ground cherries burst with a sweet, slightly tart flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft, fluffy texture of the muffin. For an extra touch, try serving them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.
Ground Cherry Salad
Venturing into the world of unique salads, I stumbled upon ground cherries at my local farmer’s market and knew I had to create something special. Their sweet, tropical flavor reminded me of summer evenings, and I wanted to capture that in a dish that’s both refreshing and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ground cherries, husked
- 1 cup arugula
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground cherries, arugula, feta cheese, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Tip: For a smoother dressing, emulsify the ingredients by whisking vigorously.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Tip: Use your hands to toss the salad for better control and to prevent crushing the ground cherries.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: If you prefer a crisper texture, serve immediately after tossing.
Refreshingly sweet with a hint of tang from the feta and balsamic, this ground cherry salad is a delightful surprise. Serve it as a side at your next barbecue or top it with grilled chicken for a light, satisfying meal.
Ground Cherry Smoothie
Back when I first stumbled upon ground cherries at my local farmers’ market, I was intrigued by their papery husks and sweet, tropical flavor. Little did I know, they’d become the star of my morning smoothie, blending beautifully with creamy yogurt and a hint of vanilla for a refreshing start to the day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ground cherries, husked
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
- Rinse the ground cherries under cold water and remove their husks.
- In a blender, combine the husked ground cherries, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Tip: For a smoother texture, blend the liquid ingredients first before adding the ice.
- Add the ice cubes to the blender. Tip: Crushed ice blends more easily and creates a smoother consistency.
- Blend on high speed for 45-60 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth. Tip: If the smoothie is too thick, add more almond milk one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.
Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, this ground cherry smoothie has a velvety texture that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Try garnishing with a few whole ground cherries on top for a beautiful presentation that hints at the delicious flavor inside.
Ground Cherry Ice Cream
Never have I stumbled upon a fruit as intriguing as the ground cherry, with its papery husk and sweet, tropical flavor. It was during a late summer farmers’ market visit that I first encountered these little gems, and I knew immediately they were destined for something special—like this creamy, dreamy Ground Cherry Ice Cream.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup ground cherries, husked and halved
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt. Heat until the sugar is completely dissolved, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes.
- While the ice cream is churning, gently fold in 1 cup of husked and halved ground cherries during the last 5 minutes of churning to evenly distribute them throughout.
- Transfer the ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to firm up.
What makes this ice cream truly stand out is the contrast between the creamy base and the bursts of sweet, slightly tart ground cherries. Serve it in a waffle cone for an extra crunch, or alongside a slice of pound cake for a decadent dessert.
Ground Cherry Pancakes
Last weekend, I stumbled upon a basket of ground cherries at my local farmers’ market, and I knew I had to incorporate their sweet, tropical flavor into my breakfast. These little gems inspired me to whip up a batch of fluffy pancakes that are perfect for a lazy Sunday morning.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup ground cherries, husked
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- In another bowl, beat 1 large egg, then stir in 1 cup milk and 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Tip: Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
- Gently fold in 1/2 cup husked ground cherries into the batter.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
- Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Tip: Adjust the heat if the pancakes are browning too quickly.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, top with additional ground cherries.
Buttery and light, these pancakes have a delightful hint of vanilla-like sweetness from the ground cherries. Try stacking them high with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a picture-perfect breakfast that’s as delicious as it looks.
Ground Cherry Tart
Discovering ground cherries was a game-changer for my summer desserts. Their sweet, tropical flavor wrapped in a tiny, papery husk inspired me to create this Ground Cherry Tart, a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance that’s become a staple at my family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp ice water
- 2 cups ground cherries, husked
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a food processor, combine 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup diced unsalted butter, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add 3 tbsp ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just comes together. Tip: Overworking the dough can make it tough, so stop as soon as it forms a ball.
- Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch tart pan, making sure to press up the sides. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- While the crust chills, toss 2 cups husked ground cherries with 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp vanilla extract in a bowl.
- Remove the crust from the refrigerator and prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Pour the ground cherry mixture into the pre-baked crust. Return to the oven and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Tip: Place a baking sheet under the tart pan to catch any drips.
- Allow the tart to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving. Tip: For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Fresh out of the oven, this tart boasts a buttery, flaky crust that contrasts beautifully with the juicy, sweet-tart filling. It’s a delightful way to showcase ground cherries, especially when served warm with a side of your favorite ice cream.
Ground Cherry Chutney
Kicking off the summer with a bang, I stumbled upon ground cherries at my local farmer’s market and knew I had to turn them into something special. Their sweet, tropical flavor reminded me of my grandma’s garden, where she’d let me snack on them straight from the plant. This Ground Cherry Chutney is my homage to those memories, with a spicy twist that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ground cherries, husked
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Combine ground cherries, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, onion, ginger, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Tip: A wooden spoon is best for stirring to avoid crushing the ground cherries too much.
- Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened to your desired consistency. Tip: To test if it’s ready, draw a line on the back of a spoon; if it holds, it’s done.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before serving. Tip: For a smoother chutney, blend half of it after cooling, then mix back in.
Every bite of this chutney is a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy, with the ground cherries providing a unique texture that’s both juicy and slightly chewy. Try it alongside grilled chicken or spread on a sharp cheddar cheese sandwich for an unexpected flavor boost.
Ground Cherry Bread
Unbelievably, the first time I stumbled upon ground cherries, I mistook them for tiny tomatillos. It wasn’t until I took a bite that I was hit with their sweet, tropical flavor, reminiscent of pineapple and vanilla. That’s when I knew I had to bake them into something special, and thus, this Ground Cherry Bread was born. It’s a delightful twist on traditional quick breads, perfect for those who love a little surprise in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ground cherries, husked
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Tip: Overmixing can lead to a tough bread, so mix until you no longer see flour streaks.
- Gently fold in the ground cherries. Tip: If your ground cherries are large, halving them ensures even distribution throughout the bread.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Tip: Ovens vary, so start checking at 50 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Rich with a moist crumb and bursts of sweet ground cherries, this bread is a morning delight. Try toasting a slice and slathering it with butter for an extra indulgent treat.
Ground Cherry Cookies
Yesterday, I stumbled upon a basket of ground cherries at my local farmer’s market, and I knew immediately they were destined for something sweet. Their unique, tropical flavor inspired me to whip up a batch of these irresistible Ground Cherry Cookies, a delightful twist on your classic cookie that’s sure to surprise and delight.
Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup ground cherries, husked
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
5. Gently fold in the ground cherries, being careful not to crush them.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
So, these cookies come out with a wonderfully soft center and a slightly crisp edge, with the ground cherries adding a burst of sweet and tangy flavor. Try serving them with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!
Ground Cherry Sauce
Zesty and vibrant, ground cherry sauce is a hidden gem in the world of homemade condiments. I stumbled upon this recipe during a late-summer farmers’ market visit, where the golden husks of ground cherries caught my eye. Their sweet-tart flavor, reminiscent of pineapple and vanilla, makes this sauce a versatile companion to both sweet and savory dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ground cherries, husked
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine ground cherries, sugar, and water over medium heat.
- Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely, about 5 minutes.
- Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Tip: A gentle simmer ensures the cherries soften without burning.
- Reduce heat to low and let the mixture cook for 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract. Tip: Adding lemon juice brightens the sauce’s flavor, balancing the sweetness.
- Let the sauce cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a blender. Tip: Cooling slightly prevents pressure buildup in the blender.
- Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds, for a silky texture.
Kick your breakfast or dessert game up a notch with this ground cherry sauce. Its velvety texture and bright flavor make it perfect drizzled over pancakes or swirled into yogurt. For a savory twist, try it as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork.
Ground Cherry Compote
Many summers ago, I stumbled upon ground cherries at a local farmer’s market, and their sweet, tropical flavor instantly won me over. Now, I make this Ground Cherry Compote every year when they’re in season, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen for topping everything from pancakes to ice cream.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ground cherries, husked
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the ground cherries, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and water.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the compote cook for 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking. Tip: If the compote starts to stick, add a tablespoon of water and stir well.
- After 15 minutes, use a potato masher to gently crush some of the ground cherries, leaving some whole for texture.
- Continue to cook the compote for another 5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Tip: For a thicker compote, let it simmer for a few extra minutes.
- Remove the compote from the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. Tip: The compote will thicken slightly as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit thin at first.
Bright and tangy with a hint of vanilla, this compote is a versatile condiment that adds a burst of summer flavor to any dish. Try it swirled into yogurt or as a unique glaze for grilled chicken.
Ground Cherry Pudding
Every summer, my garden overflows with ground cherries, and I’m always looking for new ways to enjoy their sweet, tropical flavor. This Ground Cherry Pudding is a delightful discovery, combining the fruit’s natural sweetness with a creamy, comforting texture that’s perfect for those warm evenings when you want something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ground cherries, husked
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of ground cherries with 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, cooking for 5 minutes until the cherries are soft.
- Using a blender, puree the cooked cherries until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds, returning the liquid to the saucepan.
- Whisk together 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tbsp cornstarch, and 1/4 tsp salt in a small bowl. Gradually whisk this mixture into the cherry puree in the saucepan.
- Over medium heat, slowly add 1 cup whole milk to the saucepan, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Tip: For a smoother pudding, ensure all dry ingredients are fully dissolved before adding the milk.
- Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: The pudding is ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Let the pudding cool for 5 minutes, then fold in the remaining 1 cup of husked ground cherries.
- Divide the pudding among serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. Tip: Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
You’ll love the contrast between the creamy pudding and the burst of fresh ground cherries in every bite. Serve it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Ground Cherry Crisp
Remember those summer evenings when the air is sweet with the promise of dessert? That’s exactly what I thought of when I first stumbled upon ground cherries at my local farmers’ market. Their papery husks hiding tiny, golden treasures inspired me to create this Ground Cherry Crisp, a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 4 cups ground cherries, husked
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat and spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Tip: For a crispier topping, ensure your butter is very cold.
- Add the cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the ground cherry mixture. Tip: Don’t press down; the loose topping will crisp up beautifully.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges. Tip: Place a baking sheet underneath to catch any spills.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Buttery and crumbly on top with a juicy, slightly tart filling beneath, this crisp is a textural dream. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Ground Cherry Parfait
Venturing into the world of unique desserts, I stumbled upon the delightful Ground Cherry Parfait during a summer farmers’ market visit. Its vibrant layers and the sweet-tart flavor of ground cherries instantly won me over, making it a staple in my dessert repertoire ever since.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ground cherries, husked
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup granola
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with honey and vanilla extract until well combined. Tip: For a smoother consistency, let the yogurt sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before mixing.
- Layer the bottom of a parfait glass with 1/4 cup of the yogurt mixture.
- Add a layer of 1/4 cup ground cherries on top of the yogurt.
- Sprinkle 2 tbsp of granola over the ground cherries for a crunchy texture.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of granola on top. Tip: For an aesthetic appeal, reserve a few ground cherries to garnish the top layer.
- Chill the parfait in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: If you’re short on time, placing it in the freezer for 10 minutes can be a quick alternative.
Absolutely mesmerizing in both taste and presentation, this Ground Cherry Parfait offers a delightful contrast between the creamy yogurt and the crunchy granola. The natural sweetness of the ground cherries paired with the hint of vanilla makes it a refreshing dessert option for those warm summer evenings.
Conclusion
These 18 Delicious Ground Cherry Recipes are a treasure trove for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering a variety of ways to enjoy this unique fruit. From pies to jams, there’s something for every home cook to try. We’d love to hear which recipe became your favorite—drop us a comment below! And if you enjoyed this roundup, don’t forget to share the love on Pinterest. Happy cooking!