Every time I make this cherry tart recipe, I feel like I’m baking something that belongs in a quaint French pâtisserie window. There’s something so timeless and elegant about the combination of flaky pastry, glossy cherries, and a touch of almond or vanilla that draws everyone in. The best part? This tart is surprisingly easy to make from scratch and doesn’t require any complicated techniques.
I first tried a version of this cherry tart recipe while visiting a friend in the south of France, where we picked cherries from a neighbor’s orchard and baked with them that very afternoon. Since then, this tart has become a year-round favorite in my kitchen.
Table of contents
Why This Cherry Tart Recipe Always Works
There are a few standout qualities that make this cherry tart recipe a keeper. First, the crust. It’s a buttery shortcrust that stays crisp under the juicy filling and has just the right touch of sweetness to balance the fruit. It’s easy to make ahead and holds its shape perfectly when sliced.
Next comes the cherry filling, which is both simple and full of flavor. I use a mix of sweet cherries (like Bing or Rainier) for richness, paired with a splash of lemon juice to brighten things up. A small amount of cornstarch keeps the filling from becoming watery while still preserving the natural juices of the fruit.
For a little twist, I love brushing the tart shell with apricot jam before adding the cherries—it adds shine and a subtle tang that elevates the flavor. You can also infuse the filling with almond extract or use an almond cream (frangipane) layer underneath for a more complex profile.
If you’re watching sugar, you can scale it back in both the crust and filling, as the cherries bring plenty of natural sweetness. And if you’re gluten-free, a nut-based crust or a good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend will work beautifully.
Whether you serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or chilled with coffee, this cherry tart recipe brings rustic elegance to any occasion.
Recipe Card
Cherry Tart Recipe
8
servings25
minutes35
minutes280
kcalThis elegant cherry tart recipe combines buttery, flaky pastry with a luscious tart cherry filling. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat for any dessert lover.
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Ingredients
- For the Tart Crust
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
2 tablespoons ice-cold water
- For the Cherry Filling
2 ½ cups tart cherries (fresh or frozen)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional Garnish
Powdered sugar for dusting
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Directions
- Prepare the Tart Crust
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a food processor, pulse together the flour, sugar, and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and cold water. Mix until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 15 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and press it into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim excess dough and prick the base with a fork.
- Line with parchment paper, fill with pie weights or dried beans, and blind-bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights and bake for another 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Cherry Filling
- Combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cherry filling into the pre-baked tart crust. Spread evenly.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the filling bubbles and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar or serving with whipped cream.
Notes
- Fresh cherries give the best flavor, but frozen or canned cherries can be used when fresh are unavailable.
- Blind baking the crust ensures a crisp base that won’t get soggy.
- Serve the tart warm or at room temperature for the best experience.
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Helpful Tips to Make Your Cherry Tart a Hit
- Room Temperature Ingredients for Filling: Let your cherries reach room temperature for a smoother cooking process.
- Handle the Dough with Care: Overworking the dough can make the crust tough. Aim for gentle, quick handling.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of your cherries, you may need to adjust the sugar in the filling.
- Use a Tart Pan with a Removable Bottom: It ensures easy removal and a professional finish.
- Cool Before Slicing: Patience pays off! Cooling allows the filling to set and makes slicing much easier.
Cherry Tart Recipe Variations to Try
Cherry Almond Tart
Add a thin layer of frangipane (almond cream) to the base before layering your cherries. The almond adds richness and a soft, cake-like texture beneath the fruit. It pairs beautifully with sweet or sour cherries.
Rustic Cherry Galette
Skip the tart pan and go freeform. Roll out the crust, spoon the cherries in the center, and fold the edges up around the filling. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for a rustic dessert that looks effortlessly chic.
Chocolate Cherry Tart
Spread a thin layer of melted dark chocolate over the blind-baked crust before adding the cherries. This keeps the crust extra crisp and adds a deep, bittersweet layer that contrasts beautifully with the fruit.
Cherry and Cream Cheese Tart
Blend softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla to make a cheesecake-style base layer. Spoon the cherry filling on top. The combo of tangy creaminess with juicy cherries is always a crowd-pleaser.
FAQs About Cherry Tart
Yes, canned cherries work well. Just ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the filling.
Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Absolutely! Prepare the crust and filling separately, then assemble and bake the day you plan to serve it.
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches can be used for a similar tart recipe.
Health Benefits of Cherry Tart
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cherries are packed with antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and boost overall health.
- A Source of Energy: The balance of carbs and fats in the tart provides a quick energy boost.
- Heart Health: Almond flour or nuts (if used) contain healthy fats that support heart health.
- Mood Enhancer: Cherries are known to contain melatonin, which can improve sleep quality and overall mood.
- Low-Guilt Dessert: With its fruit-forward filling, this tart is a lighter dessert option compared to heavy cream-based sweets.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to Chill the Dough: Skipping this step can cause the crust to shrink and lose its shape during baking.
- Ignoring Freshness: Using canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen may dilute the tart’s flavor. Opt for high-quality tart cherries whenever possible.
- Overcooking the Filling: This can cause the cherries to lose their natural juiciness. Cook until just set.
- Uneven Dough Rolling: Roll the dough evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting into the tart too soon can result in a messy presentation.
Final Thoughts
The magic of this cherry tart recipe is that it delivers big flavor and elegance without stress. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner, a relaxed brunch, or just to use up a bounty of cherries, it always impresses with its balance of flavors, lovely texture, and versatility.
I’ve made this tart dozens of times over the years, and it never fails to draw praise. It’s reliable, beautiful, and simple enough to become part of your regular baking rotation. Plus, it adapts so easily, you can go rustic or refined, classic or modern, and still come out with a dessert that feels like a treat.
Fun Fact About the Recipe
Cherries have been symbols of love and beauty for centuries. In Japan, cherry blossoms signify renewal and hope. By baking a cherry tart, you’re channeling a piece of this universal love for cherries into a delightful dessert that celebrates both nature and artistry.
For another delightful dessert option, check out our Cherry Crumble Recipe! This rustic, fruit-forward treat is perfect for cozy family gatherings.
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