Roasted Cherries (Sweet or Savory)

Roasted cherries are an elegant and versatile dish that beautifully enhances the natural sweetness and complexity of cherries. Perfect as a topping for desserts, meats, or cheeses, roasted cherries can be enjoyed both sweet and savory, offering endless possibilities in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasting cherries intensifies their sweetness and deepens their flavor, transforming them into a luxurious topping or condiment. This recipe is simple, requires minimal ingredients, and offers a gourmet flair suitable for appetizers, main courses, or desserts. You’ll appreciate its adaptability, impressive appearance, and quick preparation time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh cherries (pitted)

• Olive oil (for savory) or melted butter (for sweet)

• Sugar or honey (optional, for sweet)

• Sea salt (for savory)

• Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme, optional for savory)

• Balsamic vinegar (optional, for savory)

• Vanilla extract or cinnamon (optional, for sweet)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Wash and pit the cherries, removing stems and pits carefully.

3. For sweet roasted cherries: Toss cherries in melted butter or olive oil, add sugar or honey, and optionally vanilla extract or cinnamon.

4. For savory roasted cherries: Toss cherries in olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt, and optionally add herbs and balsamic vinegar.

5. Spread cherries evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes until cherries become tender and slightly caramelized.

7. Remove from the oven, cool slightly, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Approximately 4 servings

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 15-20 minutes

• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Savory with Cheese: Serve roasted cherries with goat cheese, ricotta, or brie for an impressive appetizer.

• Sweet Dessert Topping: Use sweet roasted cherries as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, pancakes, or waffles.

• Meat Pairing: Serve savory roasted cherries alongside pork, duck, or grilled chicken to enhance the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover roasted cherries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a saucepan over low heat until just warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for roasting?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used. Thaw and drain excess liquid before roasting.

Do cherries need to be pitted before roasting?

Yes, it is recommended to pit cherries for easier eating and better texture.

Can I substitute olive oil for butter in the sweet version?

Yes, olive oil can replace butter in the sweet version, though butter enhances the sweetness and richness.

How do roasted cherries taste?

Roasted cherries have an intensified, deeper sweetness with a slightly caramelized flavor.

Can I freeze roasted cherries?

Yes, freeze roasted cherries in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

What herbs pair well with roasted cherries?

Rosemary and thyme are classic savory pairings, but basil and mint also complement the cherries well.

Can I roast cherries without sugar or sweeteners?

Yes, roasting cherries naturally concentrates their sweetness, so additional sweeteners are optional.

Are roasted cherries healthy?

Roasted cherries retain many of the nutritional benefits of fresh cherries, including antioxidants and vitamins, though adding sugar or fats can increase calories.

How can I use leftover roasted cherries?

Leftover roasted cherries can be used as toppings for oatmeal, pancakes, yogurt, or in salads.

How do I know when roasted cherries are done?

Roasted cherries are done when they soften, release juices, and slightly caramelize around the edges.

Conclusion

Roasted cherries, whether sweet or savory, offer a simple yet sophisticated way to elevate your meals and desserts. Easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and packed with rich flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire

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