18 Delicious Wild Black Cherry Sweet and Savory Recipes

Venture into the delightful world of wild black cherries with our roundup of 18 sweet and savory recipes that promise to tantalize your taste buds! Whether you’re craving a quick dessert or a hearty meal, these dishes showcase the versatility of this seasonal favorite. Perfect for home cooks looking to add a burst of flavor to their repertoire, there’s something here for everyone. Keep reading to discover your next kitchen adventure!

Wild Black Cherry Pie

Savory and sumptuous, this Wild Black Cherry Pie is a testament to the beauty of seasonal baking, where the tartness of wild cherries meets the buttery embrace of a flaky crust, creating a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of wild black cherries, pitted
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• a splash of lemon juice
• a couple of tablespoons of cornstarch
• a pinch of salt
• 2 pre-made pie crusts (or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious)
• a dab of butter
• a little egg wash (just beat an egg with a tablespoon of water)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s perfectly heated for baking.
2. In a large bowl, gently toss the pitted wild black cherries with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess dough but leaving a little overhang for sealing.
4. Pour the cherry mixture into the crust, dot with small pieces of butter for added richness.
5. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges by crimping with a fork or your fingers. Cut a few slits on top to allow steam to escape.
6. Brush the top crust with egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
7. Bake for about 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.
8. Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.

Out of the oven, this pie boasts a flaky, buttery crust that contrasts beautifully with the juicy, tangy cherry filling. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible summer dessert that celebrates the wild cherry’s vibrant flavor.

Wild Black Cherry Jam

Whispering the essence of summer, this Wild Black Cherry Jam captures the untamed sweetness of ripe cherries, balanced with a hint of sophistication. Perfect for spooning over morning toast or gifting in a beautifully labeled jar, it’s a preserve that promises to elevate the ordinary.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of wild black cherries, pitted
• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• a splash of fresh lemon juice
• a couple of vanilla beans, split and scraped
• a pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Combine the pitted cherries, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla beans, and salt in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Stir the mixture gently until the sugar dissolves completely, about 5 minutes. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to avoid scratching your pot.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the jam reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer. Tip: Skim off any foam that forms on the surface for a clearer jam.
5. Test the jam’s consistency by placing a small amount on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s ready. Tip: If not, continue cooking and test every 5 minutes.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars. Seal tightly while still warm.

Rich and velvety, this jam boasts a deep, fruity flavor with vanilla undertones. Try swirling it into yogurt or pairing with sharp cheeses for an unexpected delight.

Wild Black Cherry Smoothie

Lusciously ripe wild black cherries take center stage in this sumptuous smoothie, blending seamlessly with creamy yogurt and a hint of vanilla for a drink that’s as indulgent as it is refreshing. Perfect for a leisurely breakfast or a sophisticated afternoon pick-me-up, this smoothie promises a burst of summer in every sip.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of wild black cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup of almond milk
• A splash of vanilla extract
• A couple of ice cubes
• 1 tbsp of honey (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

1. Start by adding the pitted wild black cherries to your blender.
2. Pour in the Greek yogurt and almond milk, ensuring a creamy base for your smoothie.
3. Add a splash of vanilla extract for that aromatic depth.
4. If you prefer your smoothie on the sweeter side, drizzle in a tablespoon of honey.
5. Throw in a couple of ice cubes to chill and thicken the mixture.
6. Blend on high for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform in color.
7. For an extra smooth texture, pause the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula, then blend for another 10 seconds.
8. Serve immediately in a chilled glass for the best experience.

Delightfully creamy with a vibrant, fruity tang, this wild black cherry smoothie is a testament to simplicity meeting elegance. Garnish with a fresh cherry on the rim or a sprinkle of chia seeds for an added crunch and nutritional boost.

Wild Black Cherry Sorbet

Unveiling the essence of summer, this Wild Black Cherry Sorbet captures the vibrant, juicy sweetness of ripe cherries in a refreshingly smooth frozen treat. Perfect for those balmy evenings when only something cold and fruity will do, it’s a simple yet sophisticated dessert that celebrates the season’s bounty.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of wild black cherries, pitted (because nobody wants to bite into a pit)
• 3/4 cup of granulated sugar (to sweeten the deal)
• A splash of fresh lemon juice (about 1 tbsp, for a little zing)
• 1/2 cup of water (to help everything blend smoothly)
• A pinch of salt (to balance the flavors)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar completely dissolves, about 5 minutes. Let this syrup cool to room temperature.
2. While the syrup cools, pit the cherries if you haven’t already. Pro tip: Wear an apron to avoid cherry juice stains on your favorite shirt.
3. In a blender, puree the pitted cherries with the cooled sugar syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until completely smooth. For an extra smooth sorbet, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
5. Transfer the sorbet to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm. Tip: Cover the surface with parchment paper before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Out of the freezer, this sorbet boasts a velvety texture and a bold cherry flavor that’s both tart and sweet. Serve it in chilled glasses with a drizzle of dark chocolate or alongside a slice of almond cake for an elegant dessert pairing.

Wild Black Cherry Cobbler

Nothing heralds the arrival of summer quite like the deep, luscious flavors of wild black cherries, especially when baked into a cobbler that’s as rustic as it is refined. This dessert, with its tender fruit and golden, biscuit-like topping, strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart, making it an irresistible finale to any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of wild black cherries, pitted
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup of water
• 1 tbsp of lemon juice
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1 tsp of baking powder
• 1/2 tsp of salt
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup of boiling water
• A splash of vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the wild black cherries, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of water, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the cherries soften, about 5 minutes.
3. While the cherries simmer, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Tip: Sifting the flour can make the topping lighter.
4. Add the chilled butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Stir in the boiling water and vanilla extract just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix to keep the topping tender.
6. Pour the cherry mixture into a 9-inch baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the dough over the cherries, covering them as much as possible.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly. Tip: Place a baking sheet underneath to catch any spills.
8. Let the cobbler cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set. Tip: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

With its juicy cherries and fluffy topping, this cobbler is a celebration of textures and flavors. The slight crunch of the golden crust against the soft, syrupy fruit creates a dessert that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.

Wild Black Cherry Muffins

These wild black cherry muffins are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the tartness of cherries with the sweetness of the batter, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp of baking powder
• 1/2 tsp of salt
• 1 cup of wild black cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup of milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• A splash of almond extract for that extra depth

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Gently fold in the halved wild black cherries into the dry ingredients to coat them evenly, which helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
4. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Out of the oven, these muffins boast a tender crumb and bursts of juicy cherries in every bite. Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoy them as a quick breakfast on the go.

Wild Black Cherry Sauce for Duck

Rarely does a sauce come along that elevates a dish from simply delicious to truly unforgettable, but this Wild Black Cherry Sauce for Duck does just that, with its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that complement the rich, gamey notes of duck beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of wild black cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup of red wine (a good splash)
• 1/4 cup of sugar (just enough to sweeten)
• 1 tbsp of balsamic vinegar (for that tangy kick)
• 1 shallot, finely chopped (a couple of tbsp)
• 1 cup of duck stock (homemade if you’ve got it)
• A pinch of salt (to balance the flavors)
• 1 tbsp of butter (for a silky finish)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, sauté the chopped shallot until it’s soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the pitted wild black cherries to the pan, stirring gently to combine with the shallot.
3. Pour in the red wine and balsamic vinegar, letting the mixture simmer until the liquid reduces by half, roughly 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the sugar and a pinch of salt, adjusting the sweetness to your liking but remember, the sauce should have a bold flavor to stand up to the duck.
5. Add the duck stock, bringing the sauce to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer and thicken, about 10 minutes.
6. Finish the sauce by whisking in the butter until it’s fully melted and the sauce is glossy and smooth.
7. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve for a silky texture, pressing down on the solids to extract all the flavorful juices.

This Wild Black Cherry Sauce boasts a luscious texture and a deep, complex flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with duck. Try drizzling it over a perfectly seared duck breast or incorporating it into a duck confit for an extra layer of sophistication.

Wild Black Cherry Vinaigrette

Finesse your salad game with this Wild Black Cherry Vinaigrette, a harmonious blend of sweet and tart that elevates any greens to gourmet status. Perfect for summer gatherings, its vibrant hue and rich flavor profile promise to be the talk of the table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of wild black cherries, pitted and halved
• A splash of balsamic vinegar
• A couple of tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• A pinch of salt
• A drizzle of honey
• A teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• A small handful of fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the wild black cherries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, honey, and Dijon mustard. Blend until smooth. Tip: For a smoother vinaigrette, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any cherry skins.
2. Transfer the blended mixture to a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the honey from burning.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh thyme leaves. Let the vinaigrette cool to room temperature before serving. Tip: The vinaigrette thickens as it cools, so adjust with a little water if too thick for your liking.

Zesty and vibrant, this Wild Black Cherry Vinaigrette drapes over greens with a glossy sheen, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Try it drizzled over a goat cheese and arugula salad for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Wild Black Cherry Ice Cream

Yielded by the lush orchards of late spring, wild black cherries bring a deep, nuanced sweetness to this indulgent ice cream, perfectly balancing richness with a hint of tartness.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of heavy cream
• 1 cup of whole milk
• 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
• A pinch of salt
• 5 egg yolks
• 2 cups of wild black cherries, pitted and halved
• A splash of vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, half of the sugar, and the salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling, stirring occasionally.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
3. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Tip: Tempering the eggs slowly ensures a smooth custard base.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (about 170°F).
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the custard cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Tip: Chilling the custard thoroughly improves the ice cream’s texture.
6. Once chilled, churn the custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Tip: Adding the cherries during the last 5 minutes of churning distributes them evenly without crushing.
7. Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container, layering with additional cherries if desired, and freeze until firm, about 4 hours.

Exquisitely creamy with bursts of juicy cherries, this ice cream is a celebration of summer. Serve it sandwiched between chewy chocolate cookies for an irresistible twist on the classic ice cream sandwich.

Wild Black Cherry Pancakes

Zesty mornings call for something extraordinary, and these Wild Black Cherry Pancakes are just the ticket. Infused with the deep, luxurious flavor of wild black cherries, this recipe transforms the humble pancake into a gourmet breakfast experience.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup milk
• A splash of vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup wild black cherries, pitted and halved
• A couple of tbsp unsalted butter, for the pan

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg, then mix in the milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Tip: Overmixing leads to tough pancakes, so leave some lumps.
4. Fold in the wild black cherries gently to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
5. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter, swirling to coat the pan.
6. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake into the pan. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Flip the pancakes carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Tip: Adjust the heat if the pancakes are browning too quickly.
8. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the pan as needed. Tip: Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven until all are ready.

Warm and fluffy, these pancakes boast bursts of juicy cherries in every bite. Serve them stacked high with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a breakfast that feels like a celebration.

Wild Black Cherry Bread

Yield to the allure of summer with this Wild Black Cherry Bread, a delightful concoction that marries the tartness of wild cherries with the comforting warmth of homemade bread. Perfect for a leisurely brunch or as a sweet afternoon treat, this recipe promises a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of sugar
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tsp of baking powder
• A splash of vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup of melted butter
• A couple of handfuls of wild black cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup of milk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.
4. Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix—this keeps the bread tender.
5. Gently stir in the wild black cherries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Here’s a bread that’s wonderfully moist with pockets of juicy cherries, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Serve it warm with a dollop of clotted cream or toasted with a smear of butter for an indulgent breakfast.

Wild Black Cherry Salad Dressing

Just when you thought your salad couldn’t get any more exciting, along comes this Wild Black Cherry Salad Dressing to elevate your greens to gourmet status. Its rich, fruity depth paired with a hint of tang makes it a versatile companion to both hearty and delicate salads alike.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of wild black cherries, pitted
• A splash of balsamic vinegar
• A couple of tablespoons of honey
• 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• A pinch of salt
• A dash of black pepper

Instructions

1. Start by blending the pitted wild black cherries in a food processor until smooth, about 1 minute.
2. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar and a couple of tablespoons of honey to the cherry puree, blending again to combine.
3. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil until the dressing emulsifies and thickens slightly.
4. Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper, then give it one final quick blend to mix everything well.
5. Transfer the dressing to a jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Here’s a tip: For an extra smooth texture, strain the dressing through a fine mesh sieve before refrigerating. Another tip: If the dressing is too thick, thin it with a teaspoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Lastly, this dressing pairs wonderfully with salads featuring goat cheese or walnuts for added texture and flavor.

How this dressing transforms your salad is nothing short of magical. The velvety texture clings to each leaf, while the sweet and tangy notes of the cherries create a symphony of flavors. Try drizzling it over a bed of arugula with slices of ripe peach and crumbled feta for a summer salad that sings.

Wild Black Cherry Compote

Captivating the essence of summer, this Wild Black Cherry Compote marries the deep, lush flavors of ripe cherries with a hint of vanilla, creating a versatile topping that elevates everything from morning pancakes to elegant desserts.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of wild black cherries, pitted
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• A splash of fresh lemon juice
• A couple of vanilla beans, split and scraped
• 1/2 cup of water

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and water over medium heat. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add the splash of lemon juice and the scraped vanilla beans, stirring to incorporate. Tip: The lemon juice not only adds brightness but also helps preserve the cherries’ vibrant color.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries are soft and the liquid has thickened slightly. Tip: Keep an eye on the compote to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool for 10 minutes. The compote will continue to thicken as it cools. Tip: For a smoother texture, you can lightly mash some of the cherries with the back of a spoon.

Heirloom in flavor and luxuriously textured, this compote is a delightful contrast when served over creamy vanilla ice cream or as a sophisticated accompaniment to a cheese board.

Wild Black Cherry Yogurt Parfait

Radiating with the lush vibrancy of summer, this Wild Black Cherry Yogurt Parfait layers the tart sweetness of cherries with the creamy tang of yogurt, creating a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of wild black cherries, pitted and halved
• 2 cups of Greek yogurt
• a splash of vanilla extract
• a couple of tablespoons of honey
• 1/2 cup of granola
• a sprinkle of mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with a splash of vanilla extract and a couple of tablespoons of honey until well combined. Tip: For a smoother consistency, let the yogurt sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before mixing.
2. Take a clear glass and start layering: first, add a spoonful of the yogurt mixture at the bottom.
3. Next, add a layer of pitted and halved wild black cherries. Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, lightly mash a few cherries before layering.
4. Repeat the layers until the glass is nearly full, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
5. Sprinkle the granola over the final yogurt layer for a delightful crunch. Tip: Toast the granola lightly beforehand to enhance its nutty flavor.
6. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

With its harmonious blend of creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements, this parfait is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together. Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer treat, or layer it in mason jars for a portable breakfast option.

Wild Black Cherry Chocolate Truffles

Gracefully blending the tartness of wild black cherries with the rich depth of dark chocolate, these truffles are a luxurious treat that marries fruit and cocoa in perfect harmony. Each bite offers a sophisticated balance of flavors, making them an irresistible indulgence for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of heavy cream
• a couple of cups of dark chocolate chips
• a splash of vanilla extract
• a handful of wild black cherries, pitted and finely chopped
• a dusting of cocoa powder for coating

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, about 2-3 minutes. Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent boiling.
2. Place the dark chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1 minute to soften.
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir the mixture gently until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Tip: If the chocolate isn’t melting, you can place the bowl over a pot of simmering water to help it along.
4. Fold in the finely chopped wild black cherries until evenly distributed throughout the chocolate mixture.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle. Tip: For quicker setting, you can place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.
6. Using a small scoop or a teaspoon, form the mixture into small balls, then roll each ball in cocoa powder to coat.
7. Place the coated truffles on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to set.

Yieldingly rich and velvety, these truffles boast a delightful contrast between the creamy chocolate and the juicy bursts of cherry. Serve them in petite paper cups for an elegant presentation, or as a decadent topping for your favorite dessert.

Wild Black Cherry BBQ Sauce

Yielded by the lush orchards of summer, this Wild Black Cherry BBQ Sauce marries the deep, fruity notes of cherries with the smoky allure of traditional barbecue. Perfect for elevating grilled meats or as a bold dipping sauce, its rich flavor profile is both unexpected and unforgettable.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of wild black cherries, pitted
• 1 cup of ketchup
• 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp of smoked paprika
• 1 tsp of garlic powder
• A splash of liquid smoke
• A couple of dashes of cayenne pepper
• Salt to season

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted wild black cherries, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, liquid smoke, and cayenne pepper to the saucepan. Stir to blend the spices evenly throughout the mixture.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches if preferred. Tip: For a chunkier texture, blend only half the sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste, then simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors together. Tip: Taste and adjust the cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.
6. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving. Tip: The sauce thickens as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit thin initially.

Mellow yet vibrant, this Wild Black Cherry BBQ Sauce boasts a velvety texture that clings beautifully to ribs or chicken. Its sweet and smoky flavor, with a hint of spice, makes it a standout condiment for your next backyard barbecue or as a gourmet glaze for roasted vegetables.

Wild Black Cherry Granola Bars

Delightfully rustic yet undeniably sophisticated, these Wild Black Cherry Granola Bars are a harmonious blend of chewy oats, crunchy nuts, and the tart sweetness of wild black cherries, all held together with a golden honey glaze. Perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, they’re as nutritious as they are delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats
• a handful of chopped almonds, about 1/2 cup
• a splash of vanilla extract, roughly 1 tsp
• a generous drizzle of honey, around 1/3 cup
• a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup of dried wild black cherries
• a pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, chopped almonds, and dried wild black cherries until evenly distributed.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and combined. Tip: Don’t let it boil to preserve the honey’s delicate flavors.
4. Pour the warm liquid over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated and sticky.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing down firmly with the back of a spoon or your hands to compact it evenly. Tip: For extra firm bars, press down as hard as you can.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. Tip: They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake.
7. Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment overhang and cutting into bars.

Perfectly balanced between chewy and crisp, these granola bars boast a deep, fruity flavor from the wild black cherries, complemented by the nuttiness of almonds and the warmth of honey. Serve them alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt for a breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Wild Black Cherry Mojito

Here’s a refreshing twist on the classic mojito that’s perfect for summer evenings. Harnessing the bold, fruity flavors of wild black cherries, this cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet and tart, with a hint of minty freshness.

Ingredients

• a handful of fresh mint leaves
• a couple of wild black cherries, pitted and halved
• a splash of simple syrup
• a shot of white rum
• a squeeze of fresh lime juice
• a cup of club soda
• a few ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a sturdy glass, muddle the mint leaves and black cherry halves gently to release their flavors, being careful not to shred the mint.
2. Add the simple syrup, white rum, and lime juice to the glass, stirring lightly to combine the ingredients.
3. Fill the glass almost to the top with ice cubes, then top off with club soda for that fizzy lift.
4. Give the mojito a gentle stir to mix everything together without losing the carbonation.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a cherry on the rim for an elegant finish.

Perfectly balanced, this Wild Black Cherry Mojito offers a symphony of flavors with each sip. The effervescence of the club soda lifts the rich cherry notes, while the mint adds a cool contrast. Serve it in a chilled copper mug for an extra touch of sophistication.

Conclusion

Certainly, this roundup of 18 Delicious Wild Black Cherry Sweet and Savory Recipes offers a treasure trove of culinary inspiration. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, there’s a dish here to delight your taste buds. We invite you to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and spread the cherry love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

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