
Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy dumpling, bursting with the sweet-tart flavor of sour cherries, topped with a dollop of creamy sour cream. That’s the magic of sour cherry varenyky, a beloved Ukrainian treat that’s like a hug from grandma’s kitchen. These dumplings, also called pierogi in some regions, are a summer favorite in Ukraine, where fresh cherries are plentiful. Whether you’re new to cooking or a kitchen pro, this article will guide you through making sour cherry varenyky with simple steps, handy tips, and a touch of Ukrainian tradition. Plus, we’ll share how to avoid soggy dumplings and keep those juicy cherries from leaking. Ready to bring a taste of Ukraine to your table? Let’s get started!

What Are Sour Cherry Varenyky?
Varenyky (pronounced vah-REH-ni-ki) are Ukrainian dumplings with a soft dough wrapped around sweet or savory fillings. The name comes from the Ukrainian word “variti,” meaning “to boil,” because these dumplings are boiled until they float. Sour cherry varenyky are a sweet version, stuffed with tangy cherries and a sprinkle of sugar, often served with sour cream or melted butter. They’re a staple in Ukrainian homes, especially in summer when cherries are fresh, but you can make them year-round with frozen cherries. Think of them as a dessert or a special breakfast treat that warms the heart.
Why You’ll Love Making Varenyky
Making sour cherry varenyky is fun, hands-on, and rewarding. They’re perfect for family cooking sessions or impressing friends at a dinner party. Plus, they’re versatile—you can tweak the recipe to suit your taste or use other fruits like blueberries or strawberries. The best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients or skills, just a little patience. Let’s dive into the recipe and tips to make your varenyky perfect every time.
Ingredients for Sour Cherry Varenyky
Here’s what you’ll need for about 30–40 dumplings:
- Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (or milk for softer dough)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Filling:
- 2 cups pitted sour cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to keep juices in)
- To Serve:
- Sour cream or melted butter
- Extra sugar for sprinkling
Tip: Fresh sour cherries are best in summer, but frozen work great too. Avoid canned cherries—they’re too watery.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Sour Cherry Varenyky
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add the egg, warm water (or milk), and oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and not sticky.
- Cover with a towel and let it rest for 20 minutes. This makes the dough easier to roll.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling
- If using fresh cherries, pit them carefully. If frozen, thaw and drain well to avoid excess juice.
- Mix cherries with cornstarch in a bowl. Don’t add sugar yet—it pulls out juices and makes dumplings soggy.
Step 3: Shape the Dumplings
- Divide the dough into two balls. Roll one ball on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick (like a thin pancake).
- Use a glass or 3-inch cookie cutter to cut out dough circles.
- Place 2–3 cherries in the center of each circle. Sprinkle a pinch of sugar (about 1/8 teaspoon) over the cherries.
- Fold the dough into a half-moon shape, pressing edges firmly to seal. Pinch tightly so no filling leaks during boiling.
Step 4: Cook the Varenyky
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Drop 6–8 dumplings in at a time, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
- Boil for 3–5 minutes until they float to the top, then cook 1 minute more.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place in a bowl with a bit of melted butter to keep them from sticking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with a spoonful of sour cream or a drizzle of melted butter. Sprinkle with sugar for extra sweetness. For a fancy touch, make a quick cherry sauce by simmering leftover cherry juice with sugar and a pinch of cornstarch.
Sour Cherry Varenyky Recipe
markdownShow inline
Tips for Perfect Varenyky
- Drain Cherries Well: Too much juice makes dumplings soggy. Use a colander for frozen cherries.
- Don’t Overstuff: Stick to 2–3 cherries per dumpling to avoid leaks.
- Seal Tightly: Press edges firmly or use a fork to crimp. Wet edges with water if they don’t stick.
- Freeze Extras: Place uncooked varenyky on a floured tray in the freezer for 1 hour, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Boil straight from frozen.
- Try Kefir Dough: For extra softness, swap water for kefir, a tangy fermented milk popular in Ukraine.
- Experiment with Toppings: Besides sour cream, try whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for a dessert twist.
The Cultural Heart of Varenyky
In Ukraine, varenyky are more than food—they’re a tradition passed down through generations. Families gather to make them, sharing stories while rolling dough. Sour cherry varenyky are a summer favorite, often made with cherries from backyard gardens. They’re so loved that some Ukrainian towns have monuments to varenyky, like the one in Cherkassy! Whether served at holidays or casual meals, these dumplings bring people together with their comforting, nostalgic flavor.
Health Benefits of Sour Cherries
Sour cherries aren’t just tasty—they’re good for you! They’re packed with antioxidants, which help fight inflammation, and may even improve sleep thanks to natural melatonin. Just go easy on the sugar if you’re watching your diet, as the filling can be sweet.
Where to Find Ingredients
Fresh sour cherries are ideal in summer, found at farmers’ markets or grocery stores. Frozen sour cherries, often labeled “pie cherries,” are a great year-round option—check stores like Whole Foods or Amazon Fresh. For authentic Ukrainian ingredients like kefir, try Eastern European markets or online at RussianFoodUSA.
Final Thoughts: Bring Ukraine to Your Kitchen

Sour cherry varenyky are a delicious way to explore Ukrainian culture and enjoy a sweet, tangy treat. With a simple dough, juicy cherries, and a sprinkle of love, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these dumplings are sure to bring smiles. So grab some cherries, roll up your sleeves, and make a batch of varenyky today!
Want more Ukrainian recipes? Check out Taste of Home’s Eastern European Dishes or visit Ukraine.com for cultural insights. Happy cooking!