Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets

If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent, Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets is the perfect treat. This classic Greek delicacy combines thick, creamy yogurt with “glyko tou koutaliou” (spoon sweets)—a traditional fruit preserve that’s rich in flavor and glossy in texture.

Spoon sweets are made by slowly simmering whole cherries in a sugar-based syrup, creating a naturally thick and flavorful topping that pairs beautifully with tangy Greek yogurt. Whether you serve it as a quick breakfast, a light dessert, or a healthy snack, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets

• Naturally sweet and satisfying – No need for artificial sweeteners.

• Rich in probiotics – Greek yogurt supports gut health.

• A traditional Greek delight – Enjoy a taste of authentic Mediterranean cuisine.

• Perfect for any time of day – Serve it as breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat.

• Easy to make – The cherry spoon sweets can be prepared in advance and stored for months!

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes (plus cooling time)

• Yield: 6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220

• Carbohydrates: 40g

• Protein: 8g

• Fat: 4g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 35g

Ingredients for Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets

For the Cherry Spoon Sweets

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

• ½ cup water

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp lemon zest

For the Yogurt Base

• 2 cups full-fat Greek yogurt

• ¼ cup honey (optional)

• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Rinse the cherries thoroughly and remove the pits using a cherry pitter or knife.

Step 2: Cook the Spoon Sweets

In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce to low heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the syrup thickens and the cherries become glossy.

Step 3: Add Lemon and Vanilla

Stir in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Let the mixture cool completely before transferring it to a jar.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Scoop Greek yogurt into serving bowls, drizzle with honey (if using), and top with a generous spoonful of cherry spoon sweets. Garnish with chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately or refrigerate for a chilled treat. Enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or a light dessert!

Ingredient Background

The beauty of Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets lies in the contrast of textures and flavors. Every ingredient plays a significant role in making this dish both refreshing and indulgent.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is known for its thick, creamy texture and high protein content. Unlike regular yogurt, it’s strained to remove excess liquid, making it richer and more satisfying. It’s also packed with probiotics, which promote gut health and digestion.

Cherries

Cherries are not only delicious but also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. When cooked slowly with sugar, they release their natural juices, creating a thick, syrupy spoon sweet that perfectly complements the tartness of Greek yogurt.

Lemon Juice and Zest

Lemon juice balances the sweetness of the cherries, while lemon zest enhances the overall fragrance of the dish. The acidity also helps preserve the cherries, keeping the spoon sweets fresh for longer.

Honey

Honey is an optional but delicious addition that enhances the natural sweetness of the dish while adding a floral, earthy depth. It pairs beautifully with Greek yogurt and makes the flavors even more authentic to Mediterranean cuisine.

Technique Tips for Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets

1. Use Fresh, Ripe Cherries

For the best flavor, use fresh cherries that are firm, deep red, and slightly sweet. If fresh cherries are out of season, frozen cherries work well too—just thaw them before cooking.

2. Stir Occasionally While Simmering

As the cherries cook in the sugar syrup, stir gently every few minutes to prevent sticking or burning. This also helps release their natural pectin, which thickens the syrup.

3. Let the Syrup Thicken Naturally

The cherry syrup may seem thin while still warm, but it will thicken as it cools. If it’s too runny, simmer for another 5-10 minutes; if too thick, add a tablespoon of water and heat gently.

4. Store in a Sterilized Jar

If you plan to keep the spoon sweets for longer storage, pour them into a sterilized glass jar while hot. This helps preserve the cherries and prevents spoilage.

5. Chill Before Serving

For the best taste, chill the cherry spoon sweets for a few hours before serving. The cold syrup contrasts beautifully with the creamy yogurt for a refreshing dessert.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait

Layer Greek yogurt, cherry spoon sweets, and granola in a tall glass for a beautiful, layered parfait. This is a great way to add crunch and extra texture.

2. Drizzled Over Pancakes or Waffles

Instead of maple syrup, use the cherry spoon sweet syrup as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or crepes. The warm, glossy cherries make any breakfast feel luxurious.

3. Cheesecake Topping

Cherry spoon sweets make a perfect topping for cheesecake! Spoon them over a classic Greek-style cheesecake or a no-bake yogurt-based cheesecake for a Mediterranean twist.

Freezing and Storing Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets

Refrigeration (Short-Term Storage)

• Store leftover cherry spoon sweets in an airtight container or glass jar in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

• Greek yogurt should be kept separately in the fridge and consumed within 5-7 days.

Freezing (Long-Term Storage)

• Spoon sweets freeze well! Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 months. When ready to use, let them thaw overnight in the fridge.

• Avoid freezing Greek yogurt alone, as it can become grainy when thawed. However, it works well when mixed with spoon sweets before freezing.

Meal Prep Tip

Make a large batch of cherry spoon sweets and portion them into small containers. Keep them in the fridge so you can grab a serving and pair it with yogurt anytime!

Healthier Twist Ideas

Want to make this dish even healthier? Here are some easy modifications:

1. Reduce the Sugar

Instead of the 1 ½ cups of sugar, use ½ cup honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness. This reduces refined sugar while keeping the cherries flavorful.

2. Use Low-Fat Greek Yogurt

For a lower-calorie option, use 2% or fat-free Greek yogurt. It’s still creamy but has less fat than the full-fat version.

3. Add More Fiber with Chia Seeds

Stir in 1 tablespoon of chia seeds into the cherry spoon sweets while they’re still warm. This will thicken the syrup naturally and boost the fiber content.

4. Add More Protein with Nuts

Top your yogurt with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for an added crunch and extra protein.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Elegant Dinner Dessert

Serve Greek yogurt and cherry spoon sweets in small glass dessert bowls, garnished with fresh mint and a drizzle of extra syrup. It’s a sophisticated, light dessert that pairs well with espresso.

2. Brunch Spread

Set up a Greek yogurt bar at your next brunch with a variety of toppings, including cherry spoon sweets, honey, granola, and nuts. Let guests build their own bowls!

3. Afternoon Tea Pairing

This dish pairs beautifully with Greek herbal tea or a cup of black tea. The combination of tart cherries and creamy yogurt balances the tannins in tea perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are spoon sweets?

Spoon sweets are traditional Greek fruit preserves made by simmering fruit in sugar syrup. They are often served with Greek yogurt or as a topping for desserts.

2. Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes! Thaw them before cooking, and follow the same instructions.

3. What’s the best type of Greek yogurt to use?

Full-fat Greek yogurt is the creamiest and most traditional, but low-fat or fat-free versions also work well.

4. Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?

Absolutely! Spoon sweets can be made with figs, apricots, grapes, or oranges. The process is the same—just adjust the cooking time based on the fruit.

5. How do I make this dish vegan?

Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

6. Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes! Monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar can replace white sugar for a lower-glycemic option.

7. How do I thicken the cherry syrup naturally?

Let the cherries cook longer, or add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water for a thicker consistency.

8. Can I make the spoon sweets ahead of time?

Yes! Spoon sweets can be stored for several weeks in the fridge or frozen for up to 6 months.

9. What’s the difference between spoon sweets and jam?

Spoon sweets use whole fruit pieces in syrup, while jam is mashed and has a spreadable consistency.

10. Can I add vanilla yogurt instead of plain?

Yes, vanilla yogurt adds an extra touch of sweetness and flavor!

Conclusion

Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as an elegant dessert, this dish is a fantastic way to experience authentic Greek flavors.

Try it today and bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen! Kali orexi! (Enjoy your meal!)

Greek Yogurt with Cherry Spoon Sweets

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• Author: Louise
• Total Time: 50 minutes (plus cooling time)
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cherry Spoon Sweets

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp lemon zest

For the Yogurt Base

• 2 cups full-fat Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup honey (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Rinse the cherries thoroughly and remove the pits using a cherry pitter or knife.

Step 2: Cook the Spoon Sweets

In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce to low heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the syrup thickens and the cherries become glossy.

Step 3: Add Lemon and Vanilla

Stir in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Let the mixture cool completely before transferring it to a jar.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Scoop Greek yogurt into serving bowls, drizzle with honey (if using), and top with a generous spoonful of cherry spoon sweets. Garnish with chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately or refrigerate for a chilled treat. Enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or a light dessert!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 35g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g