Roasting cherries concentrates them into something halfway between fresh fruit and jam. Rosemary and a splash of balsamic add a savory edge, so they work as well on toast with a soft vegan cheese as they do on ice cream.
They're a good way to use cherries that are a little past their best, and they keep for days in the fridge.
The original Princess Tofu blog published a rosemary roasted cherries recipe back in 2013, and food sites still link to it. This is our own fully vegan version, written from scratch.
Ingredient notes and swaps
- Rosemary: thyme or a bay leaf.
- Balsamic: red wine vinegar with a little extra maple.
- Cherries: plums or figs, roasted a little longer.
Tips for success
- Use a small dish so the juices pool and turn syrupy.
- Use a cherry pitter or a chopstick to remove the stones.
Variations
- Savory: add a pinch of chili flakes and serve with a vegan cheese board.
- Dessert: finish with a little vanilla and serve warm over ice cream.
What to serve it with
- On toast with vegan cream cheese.
- With fennel and sea salt ice cream.
Recipe
Rosemary Roasted Cherries
Prep10 min
Cook20 min
Total30 min
MakesServes 4
Ingredients
- 400 g (about 2½ cups) cherries, pitted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 sprigs rosemary
- Pinch of flaky salt
- Black pepper
- To serve: toasted sourdough with vegan cream cheese or cashew brie, or coconut yogurt
Method
- Heat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Toss the cherries with the oil, maple syrup, balsamic, rosemary, salt and a few grinds of pepper in a small roasting dish.
- Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cherries are soft and blistered and the juices are syrupy.
- Remove the rosemary and let cool for a few minutes.
- Spoon the cherries and juices over toast spread with vegan cream cheese, or over yogurt or ice cream.
Notes
Storage: keeps in a jar in the fridge for 5 days.
Cheese board: they're very good next to a vegan camembert-style cheese.
FAQ
Can I roast them ahead?
Yes. They keep 5 days in the fridge; warm them gently or serve cold.
Do I need to add sugar?
A little maple syrup balances the vinegar, but very sweet cherries need less.
Do I have to pit the cherries?
It's easier to eat them pitted, but you can roast them whole and warn your guests.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes. Roast from frozen for 5 to 10 minutes longer, until the juices thicken.