Name: Cherry Frozen Yogurt
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups plain yogurt (nondairy if desired); 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract (omit if using vanilla yogurt); 2 to 6 tbsp sweetener (of choice, to taste); 1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries (diced); 3 to 5 tbsp shaved chocolate (or mini chocolate chips, optional)

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When the sun blazes down and the heat becomes nearly unbearable, nothing beats a refreshing bowl of Cherry Frozen Yogurt. I have fond childhood memories of spending endless summers at my grandmother’s house, where we would gather around her old-fashioned ice cream maker, eager to indulge in the sweet, creamy treat. The smell of fresh cherries wafting through the kitchen felt like magic and each scoop was a moment of pure joy. Today, I’m excited to share my own take on this nostalgic delight, bringing together the tartness of fresh cherries with the cool, creamy goodness of yogurt. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a delicious way to chill out and savor the season.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
4 g

Tools Used:
Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon

Why This Cherry Frozen Yogurt Is So Good

1. Healthier Option

One of the main reasons I adore making Cherry Frozen Yogurt is that it serves as a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream. By using yogurt as the base, you get all the creamy goodness with added probiotics that are fantastic for gut health. Plus, you can control the sweetness by adjusting the sweetener, ensuring a guilt-free treat that you can enjoy without compromising your health goals.

2. Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip up this delightful dessert. The process of making Cherry Frozen Yogurt is incredibly simple and straightforward. Just combine the ingredients, stir, and freeze! It’s a fun activity to do with family or friends, letting everyone join in the fun while creating something delicious together.

3. Versatile Ingredients

The versatility of this recipe is another reason it stands out. You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer plain yogurt or a flavored variety, and whether you like your frozen yogurt with added chocolate chips or without, the choice is yours. You can also switch up the fruits, making it ideal to suit different seasons and occasions.

4. Perfect for Summer Gatherings

Summer is all about gatherings, and Cherry Frozen Yogurt is the perfect addition to any picnic or outdoor party. It’s refreshing, crowd-pleasing, and can be served in a variety of ways—whether you dish it out in bowls, or offer it in cones. Watching everyone’s face light up as they enjoy a scoop is truly rewarding.

5. Satisfies Sweet Cravings

Let’s face it, we all have sweet cravings occasionally. This recipe satisfies that craving without the heaviness of traditional desserts. Each spoonful of Cherry Frozen Yogurt provides a burst of fruity flavor that feels indulgent yet light, making it a delightful choice when you’re looking for something sweet to cool off.

6. Great for Leftovers

Another bonus is that leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to a month! You can make a big batch and enjoy it over several days, allowing you to always have a refreshing dessert on hand for unexpected guests or a late-night indulgence.

Essential Ingredients for Cherry Frozen Yogurt

To create a batch of delicious Cherry Frozen Yogurt, you’ll need some simple yet effective ingredients. Each component contributes to the creamy texture and rich flavor, while fresh cherries bring a touch of sweetness and color. It’s a combination that not only tastes great but also embodies the essence of summer.

2 cups plain yogurt, nondairy if desired: This is the base of your frozen yogurt, providing creaminess and probiotic benefits.
1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor; you can omit this if using vanilla yogurt.
2 to 6 tbsp sweetener of choice, to taste: Tailor the sweetness to your liking, adjusting based on the natural sweetness of the yogurt and cherries.
1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries, diced: The star ingredient that gives this recipe its fruity flavor and beautiful color.
3 to 5 tbsp shaved chocolate or mini chocolate chips, optional: A delightful addition that complements the cherries nicely.

How to Make Cherry Frozen Yogurt

Making Cherry Frozen Yogurt is a breeze, and you’ll find that it’s a fun way to engage family and friends in the kitchen. Follow these steps to create your own refreshing treat that’s perfect for those hot summer days.

In an ice cream machine or a large airtight container, combine the first five ingredients: yogurt, vanilla extract, sweetener, cherries, and optional chocolate. If using an ice cream machine, churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions for a creamier texture.
Mix until well combined, observing the mixture’s consistency. It should be smooth and creamy. If you’re using a container, stir vigorously to ensure all ingredients are blended thoroughly.
If you’re using an ice cream machine, transfer the churned mixture to an airtight container once it’s done, ensuring to smooth the top with a spatula.
Seal the lid tightly and place the container in the freezer. If you’re not using an ice cream machine, let the mixture sit in the container while you prepare to freeze it.
If not using an ice cream machine, stir the contents every hour for up to three hours. This will help achieve a smoother texture without ice crystals forming.
Once ready, you can eat immediately for a soft-serve texture, or freeze for an hour for a firmer consistency.
Store any leftovers in the airtight container. It can keep for up to a month, but remember to thaw for 15 to 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften.
If you want to get creative, consider adding toppings like additional cherries, nuts, or granola just before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Cherry Frozen Yogurt on a sunny day or as a delightful dessert anytime!

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Quality: Use fresh or high-quality frozen cherries for the best flavor. If they’re in season, fresh is always preferred!
Probiotic Benefits: Opting for plain yogurt ensures you get the full probiotic benefits that support gut health.
Churning vs. No Churn: An ice cream maker creates a smoother texture, but the no-churn method is just as delicious and easy!
Serving Temperature: Let your Cherry Frozen Yogurt sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for easier serving.

Tips for Success

Creating the perfect Cherry Frozen Yogurt can be even easier with a few helpful tips. Here are some insights to ensure your dessert turns out fantastic every time.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing: You can freeze any leftover Cherry Frozen Yogurt for up to a month; just remember to thaw before serving.
Pairing: Serve with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Sweetness Levels: Adjust the amount of sweetener based on your taste and the inherent sweetness of the yogurt.
Serving Ideas: This frozen yogurt pairs beautifully with fruit salads or can be used as a topping for desserts.

Perfect Pairings for Cherry Frozen Yogurt

Serving Cherry Frozen Yogurt can be as creative as you want, and it’s perfect for various occasions! Here are some great serving suggestions:

Fresh Fruits: Serve alongside a mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to enhance the fruity experience.
Picnics: This frozen yogurt is a fantastic addition to a picnic basket, bringing a sweet touch to outdoor gatherings.
Hot Weather: Perfect for BBQs or summer parties, this treat cools you down while satisfying your sweet tooth.
On Top of Desserts: Scoop it on top of warm brownies or chocolate cake for a delightful contrast of warm and cold.
Homemade Cones: Consider serving it in homemade waffle cones for a delightful DIY ice cream experience.
Birthday Parties: A crowd-pleaser, serve it at birthday parties for a refreshing alternative to cake.
Seasonal Celebrations: This refreshing dessert is ideal for summer holidays or family reunions, making it a versatile addition to your meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can make Cherry Frozen Yogurt without an ice cream machine. Just mix all your ingredients in a large airtight container and freeze. Stir the mixture vigorously every hour for up to three hours to prevent ice crystals from forming. This method might not yield the same creamy texture as an ice cream machine, but it will still be delicious!

Your Cherry Frozen Yogurt can be stored in an airtight container for up to a month. Just remember to thaw it for 15 to 30 minutes before serving for a softer scoop. This way, you can enjoy it even weeks later without losing its fresh taste!

Yes! One of the best things about Cherry Frozen Yogurt is its versatility. You can easily substitute the cherries with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit’s natural sugar levels, and you’ll have a delightful fruit-flavored frozen yogurt!

Yes! You can easily make Cherry Frozen Yogurt vegan by using a non-dairy yogurt. There are many delicious non-dairy yogurt options available made from almond, coconut, or soy milk. Just check the labels to ensure there are no non-vegan additives, and you have a fantastic vegan dessert ready!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cherry Frozen Yogurt is the perfect summer treat that embodies both nostalgia and freshness. It combines the rich taste of creamy yogurt with the sweet-tartness of cherries, making it a delightful indulgence. I encourage you to try making this refreshing dessert for yourself. Whether it’s for a hot day, a special celebration, or simply because you deserve it, this Cherry Frozen Yogurt will surely brighten your day.

Cherry Frozen Yogurt

Craving something refreshing? Try this easy-to-make Cherry Frozen Yogurt that combines the tanginess of cherries with the creaminess of yogurt. It's a perfect summer treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping things light. Make it today and enjoy a delightful scoop of summer in every bite!

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups plain yogurt nondairy if desired
1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract omit if using vanilla yogurt
2 to 6 tbsp sweetener of choice, to taste
1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries diced
3 to 5 tbsp shaved chocolate or mini chocolate chips, optional

Equipment

Cutting Board
Wooden Spoon

Method

In an ice cream machine or a large airtight container, combine the first five ingredients: yogurt, vanilla extract, sweetener, cherries, and optional chocolate. If using an ice cream machine, churn according to the manufacturer's instructions for a creamier texture.
Mix until well combined, observing the mixture's consistency. It should be smooth and creamy. If you're using a container, stir vigorously to ensure all ingredients are blended thoroughly.
If you're using an ice cream machine, transfer the churned mixture to an airtight container once it's done, ensuring to smooth the top with a spatula.
Seal the lid tightly and place the container in the freezer. If you’re not using an ice cream machine, let the mixture sit in the container while you prepare to freeze it.
If not using an ice cream machine, stir the contents every hour for up to three hours. This will help achieve a smoother texture without ice crystals forming.
Once ready, you can eat immediately for a soft-serve texture, or freeze for an hour for a firmer consistency.
Store any leftovers in the airtight container. It can keep for up to a month, but remember to thaw for 15 to 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften.
If you want to get creative, consider adding toppings like additional cherries, nuts, or granola just before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Cherry Frozen Yogurt on a sunny day or as a delightful dessert anytime!

Notes

Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Tip 2: You can freeze any leftover Cherry Frozen Yogurt for up to a month; just remember to thaw before serving.
Tip 3: Serve with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Tip 4: Adjust the amount of sweetener based on your taste and the inherent sweetness of the yogurt.
Tip 5: This frozen yogurt pairs beautifully with fruit salads or can be used as a topping for desserts.