Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I strolled through the farmers’ market, the vibrant cherries beckoned me from their colorful display—each one a treasure of summer’s bounty. This moment inspired me to whip up a dish that celebrates these gems: Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries. In just 10 minutes, you can create an appetizer that feels indulgent yet remains refreshingly simple. With the creamy burrata and the nutty flavor of brown butter melding beautifully with the sweet-tart cherries, this dish will have your guests coming back for more. Plus, it’s perfect for those lazy summer days when you want to impress without the stress of lengthy prep. Are you ready to bring a taste of summer to your table? Let’s dive in! Why Will You Love Burrata Bliss? Simplicity, made in just 10 minutes, this dish transforms fresh ingredients into culinary magic with minimal effort. Indulgent Flavors: The creamy burrata paired with nutty brown butter and juicy cherries creates a symphony of taste. Perfect for Entertaining, impress your guests with a stunning appetizer or light main course that screams summer sophistication. Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in peaches for a twist, or go dairy-free with nut-based cheese. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish brings smiles and second helpings, making your summer gatherings unforgettable. Enjoy a lovely evening with a side of Brownie Ice Cream for dessert! Burrata with Brown Butter Ingredients For the Cherries • Whole Fresh Cherries (3 cups, 11 oz) – Use pitted cherries for convenience and vibrant color. • Balsamic Vinegar (1 tbsp) – Adds a sweet-tart acidity to enhance the cherry flavor; substitute with red wine vinegar if needed. For the Brown Butter • Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp) – Essential for a nutty flavor in the brown butter; swap for plant-based butter for a dairy-free option. • Finely Grated Lemon Zest (¼ tsp) – Brightens the dish and balances richness; fresh zest offers the best flavor. For Assembly • Burrata (8 oz, at room temperature) – The star of the dish for its creaminess; fresh mozzarella could work but won’t provide the same texture. • Fresh Basil (for serving) – Adds an aromatic note; consider mint for a refreshing twist. • Flaky Sea Salt (for serving) – Enhances all flavors; any sea salt will do, but flaky varieties are delightful for texture. • Balsamic Syrup (for serving) – A drizzle adds sweetness and flavor depth; using good balsamic vinegar works too. • Crusty Bread (for serving) – Perfect for mopping up cheese and cherries; gluten-free options are available for dietary needs. Enjoy making this Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries dish, and watch your summer gatherings transform into something truly special! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries Step 1: Prepare the Cherries Begin by pitting and halving 3 cups of fresh cherries. Toss the cherry halves in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, allowing them to marinate for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the cherries soaking up the tangy flavor, which enhances their natural sweetness and vibrant color. Step 2: Make the Brown Butter In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring frequently. Keep a close eye on the butter as it bubbles and transforms in about 5 minutes, turning a rich golden brown and developing a nutty aroma. Once browned, remove it from heat and stir in ¼ teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest to infuse brightness into the brown butter. Step 3: Assemble the Dish Take an 8 oz ball of burrata and place it gently in the center of a serving dish. For a dramatic presentation, you can cut it open to reveal its creamy interior. Spoon the marinated cherries over and around the burrata, ensuring they cradle the cheese beautifully, creating a stunning focal point. Step 4: Finish with Flavor Drizzle the warm brown butter generously over the cherries, allowing it to cascade onto the burrata. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top for a burst of aroma, followed by a pinch of flaky sea salt, adding a delightful contrast. If desired, add a drizzle of balsamic syrup to elevate the flavors even further. Step 5: Serve with Bread Accompany your gorgeous Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries with slices of crusty bread for dipping. This pairing will not only complement your dish but also provide a satisfying crunch, making this summer appetizer a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the celebration of flavors! How to Store and Freeze Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries Fridge: Keep any leftover burrata in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Store cherries separately to maintain their freshness and texture. Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for the assembled dish, as burrata may not retain its creamy texture. However, leftover cherries can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Reheating: If you’ve made brown butter in advance, gently reheat it on the stove until warm. Do not overheat, as it can change the flavor. Serve fresh for the best experience! Prep Ahead: Marinate cherries a few hours before serving. This enhances their flavor—just remember to keep them chilled until you’re ready to assemble your Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries. Make Ahead Options These delightful Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries are perfect for meal prep to save you time on busy summer days! You can prepare the marinated cherries up to 24 hours in advance by pitting, halving, and tossing them with balsamic vinegar, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve. Additionally, you can make the brown butter ahead of time; just let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to impress your guests, simply reheat the brown butter, assemble the dish with the room-temperature burrata, and drizzle everything to enjoy the same fresh, indulgent flavors with minimal effort. What to Serve with Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries Elevate your summer gatherings with perfect pairings that complement this creamy and indulgent dish. Crispy Crostini: Their crunchy texture is perfect for mopping up the creamy burrata and juicy cherries, enhancing every bite. Arugula Salad: A light salad with peppery arugula, shaved parmesan, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the burrata beautifully. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky sweetness contrasts brilliantly with the dish, highlighting the summer flavors and adding a playful texture. Sparkling White Wine: A crisp, bubbly wine refreshes the palate and complements the dish’s indulgent aspects, making it a delightful sip alongside. Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, they add a fun twist, soaking up the rich flavors while keeping the meal vibrant and fresh. Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert, the creamy, sweet ice cream provides a wonderful contrast to the savory elements of your main dish. Chilled Cucumber Soup: A refreshing, cool soup acts as a palate cleanser before indulging in the burrata, making your meal feel light. With these delightful options, your Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries will shine even brighter! Expert Tips for Burrata with Brown Butter • Watch the Butter: Keep a close eye when browning the butter; it can turn from a nutty delight to burnt rapidly if you’re not attentive. • Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the best quality cherries and balsamic vinegar; fresh ingredients shine in this simple yet indulgent dish. • Let Burrata Breathe: Always serve burrata at room temperature; this maximizes creaminess and flavor, enhancing your Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries. • Easy Prep Ahead: Prepare the cherries and brown butter in advance; this allows you to assemble the dish fresh right before serving for a stunning presentation. • Experiment with Herbs: While basil is fantastic, don’t hesitate to swap it for mint or even thyme; this keeps your dish exciting and vibrant. Burrata with Brown Butter Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries uniquely yours! Peachy Alternative: Swap cherries for fresh peaches, adding a luscious sweetness and juicy texture that screams summer. Dairy-Free Delight: Replace burrata with a nut-based cheese, like cashew ricotta, for a creamy, dairy-free version that retains the flavor profile. Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted almonds or pistachios for a lovely crunch that complements the creaminess of the burrata and sweetness of the cherries. It’s like adding a little summer surprise in every bite! Herb Twist: Try fresh mint instead of basil for a refreshing flavor that brightens the dish and adds a playful twist to the classic combination. Heat It Up: Sprinkle a few red pepper flakes over the cherries to introduce a gentle heat, contrasting beautifully with the sweetness. Balsamic Boost: Enhance the flavor with a balsamic reduction instead of regular vinegar, providing a deeper sweetness and richness that pulls all the elements together. Zesty Addition: Add a splash of orange juice along with the lemon zest for an extra citrus punch that brightens the whole dish. Fruit Medley: Mix in fresh figs along with the cherries, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures that elevate your appetizer to new heights. Feel inspired to mix and match! Pair your dish with Cosmic Brownie Cookies for a sweet finish after your feast. Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries Recipe FAQs What type of cherries should I use? When selecting cherries, aim for whole fresh cherries that are firm and brightly colored. Look for cherries without blemishes or dark spots, as these are signs of over-ripeness. Pitting the cherries for convenience is highly recommended, allowing the natural sweetness to shine in your dish. How should I store leftovers of Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries? Leftover burrata should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the cherries fresh, store them separately. This will help maintain their texture and flavor. I usually try to enjoy the dish fresh, as it tastes best when prepared and served immediately. Can I freeze cherries for this recipe? Absolutely! If you find yourself with extra cherries, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply wash, pit, and halve the cherries, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to use them, allow the cherries to thaw in the refrigerator before marinating with balsamic vinegar. What should I do if my brown butter burns? In the event that your brown butter burns, don’t despair! Start fresh by re-clearing the pan and adding new unsalted butter. Keep a close eye on the melting butter as it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent it from going too far. Is there a dairy-free option for this dish? Yes, if you’re looking for a dairy-free version of Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries, you can substitute the burrata with a plant-based nut cheese. There are some lovely options available that mimic the creamy texture of burrata beautifully without dairy. Also, be sure to use a plant-based butter when making the brown butter substitute to keep the entire dish dairy-free. Can I prepare the cherries ahead of time? Definitely! I often marinate the cherries a few hours in advance. Just pit and halve them, toss with balsamic vinegar, and refrigerate. This allows the cherries’ flavors to develop beautifully, ensuring that your Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries will be bursting with taste when you serve it. Just remember to keep them chilled until you’re ready to assemble! Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries: Summer Bliss Experience the delightful combination of creamy burrata, brown butter, lemon, and cherries in this simple summer appetizer. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cherries3 cups Whole Fresh Cherries Use pitted cherries for convenience and vibrant color.1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar Adds a sweet-tart acidity to enhance the cherry flavor; substitute with red wine vinegar if needed.For the Brown Butter4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Essential for a nutty flavor; swap for plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.¼ teaspoon Finely Grated Lemon Zest Brightens the dish and balances richness; fresh zest offers the best flavor.For Assembly8 ounces Burrata The star of the dish for its creaminess; fresh mozzarella could work but won’t provide the same texture.Fresh Basil Adds an aromatic note; consider mint for a refreshing twist.Flaky Sea Salt Enhances all flavors; any sea salt will do, but flaky varieties are delightful for texture.Balsamic Syrup A drizzle adds sweetness and flavor depth; using good balsamic vinegar works too.Crusty Bread Perfect for mopping up cheese and cherries; gluten-free options are available for dietary needs. Equipment SaucepanMixing bowlServing Dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare the Cherries: Pit and halve the cherries, toss with balsamic vinegar and marinate for 5 minutes.Make the Brown Butter: Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and nutty, about 5 minutes. Stir in lemon zest.Assemble the Dish: Place burrata in the center of a serving dish, spoon marinated cherries over.Finish with Flavor: Drizzle warm brown butter over the cherries, sprinkle with fresh basil and flaky sea salt. Optionally drizzle with balsamic syrup.Serve with Bread: Offer slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg NotesWatch the butter while browning; it can burn quickly. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Serve burrata at room temperature for maximum creaminess. Prepare cherries and brown butter ahead of time for best presentation. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!