Scandinavian Tart Cherry Soup

Quick Summary

This elegant Scandinavian Tart Cherry Soup is a sweet-tart treat that can be served warm or chilled. Made with Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate it’s a cozy comfort food in winter and a refreshing dessert in summer.

Published: January 2011 | Updated: October 2025

Chef’s Note

In Scandinavian tradition, fruit soups like this are enjoyed as both desserts and light meals. The natural tang of tart cherries, complemented by warm spices, makes this recipe a unique and memorable dish for any season.

Prep & Yield

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 2 hours
Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 3 cups water

• 1/3 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/8 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1/8 tablespoon Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate

• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (for garnish)

• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Simmer the Cherries: In a medium saucepan, bring water, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt to a gentle boil.

2. Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir into the cherry mixture. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

3. Add Cherry Juice Concentrate: Stir in Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate and mix well.

4. Serve:

   • For warm soup: Ladle into bowls and top with a swirl of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

   • For chilled soup: Cool completely, then refrigerate 2–3 hours before serving. Garnish with mint leaves or an extra spoonful of cherries.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Elegant Dessert: Serve chilled in stemmed glasses topped with whipped cream and shaved chocolate.

• Breakfast Twist: Add granola or toasted almonds for a hearty morning variation.

• Vegan Option: Use coconut yogurt instead of sour cream for a dairy-free version.

Nutritional Highlight

Tart cherries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which may help support joint health and reduce inflammation. This soup combines traditional Scandinavian comfort with Traverse Bay Farms’ superfruit nutrition.

Behind the Recipe

Traverse Bay Farms’ Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate brings the authentic flavor of Michigan-grown cherries to this traditional Nordic dish. Backed by 38+ national food awards and a sediment-free guarantee, it delivers pure cherry flavor worthy of any Scandinavian table.

People Also Ask

Is Scandinavian Cherry Soup served hot or cold?
Traditionally both—warm in winter and chilled in summer.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Yes. Use 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries and reduce water slightly.

How long does it keep?
Up to 3 days refrigerated in a covered container.

Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes, use stevia or honey to taste instead of sugar.

Bring the Taste Home

Celebrate the Scandinavian tradition of fruit soups with Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate and Dried Tart Cherries—made with Michigan-grown fruit and award-winning flavor.