Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce

Name: Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 duck breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon butter

Highlighted under: Cultural World Food Ideas

I absolutely love making duck breast with cherry sauce because it combines rich flavors with a touch of elegance. The crispy skin and tender meat create a beautiful contrast, while the homemade cherry sauce adds a perfect Sweet-and-Sour balance. Every time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of special occasions, whether it be a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home. It’s quite simple to make but impressively delicious, making it a favorite in our kitchen.

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:21:37.662Z

When I first made duck breast with cherry sauce, I was unsure about how to achieve the perfect crispy skin. After a few attempts and adjustments, I discovered that starting the duck in a cold pan and slowly rendering the fat is the key to success. Patience is crucial, and the result is beautifully crisp skin that contrasts wonderfully with the tender meat.

The cherry sauce came about as an experiment while trying to find the right accompaniment for the duck. The burst of flavor from fresh or frozen cherries, with a hint of balsamic and a dash of sugar, truly elevates the dish. This balance of savory and sweet has become a staple in my cooking.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy duck skin with juicy, tender meat.
Sweet and tart cherry sauce adds a vibrant touch.
Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy dinner at home.

      

Understanding Duck Breast

Duck breast is unique due to its higher fat content compared to chicken or turkey, which results in exquisite flavor and a tender texture. When cooked properly, the fat renders out, creating a crispy skin that contrasts beautifully with the succulent meat. Make sure to choose high-quality duck breasts for the best results, ideally from a reputable butcher or farm. Each breast should average about 6-8 ounces, providing just the right portion size for this dish.

Before cooking, it's essential to score the skin of the duck breasts. This technique not only helps the fat render more effectively during cooking but also allows seasoning to penetrate the meat. Aim for a crosshatch pattern with cuts about half an inch apart, taking care to avoid cutting into the muscle. This little step ensures your duck skin crisps up beautifully, giving it that restaurant-quality finish.

Crafting the Perfect Cherry Sauce

The cherry sauce elevates this dish by adding a sweet-tart flavor that complements the richness of the duck breast. Fresh cherries are ideal if they are in season, providing a vibrant color and taste. However, frozen cherries work just as well, especially if they are pitted prior to freezing. The sauce benefits from the acidity of balsamic vinegar, which not only enhances the cherry flavor but also balances the dish, preventing it from becoming overly rich.

For the best texture of your cherry sauce, simmer it gently. You want the cherries to soften and break down, creating a luxurious sauce rather than a chunky compote. If you prefer a thicker consistency, continue to simmer until it reaches your desired thickness, and don’t forget to adjust the sweetness by adding extra sugar if needed, particularly if you’re using tart cherries.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce

For the Duck

2 duck breasts
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cherry Sauce

1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Duck Breasts

Score the skin of the duck breasts in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Cook the Duck

Place the duck breasts skin-side down in a cold non-stick pan. Heat over medium-low to render the fat, cooking for about 15-20 minutes, until the skin is crispy. Turn the breasts over and cook for another 5-10 minutes to your desired doneness.

Make Cherry Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, balsamic vinegar, and sugar. Simmer over medium heat until the cherries are soft and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the butter until melted and glossy.

Serve

Slice the duck breast and serve with the cherry sauce drizzled over the top. Enjoy alongside your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the cherry sauce while it simmers.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the elegance of this dish, I recommend serving it alongside simple yet sophisticated sides like garlic sautéed green beans or creamy mashed potatoes. These options not only add color but also complement the richness of the duck and the tanginess of the cherry sauce beautifully. If you want a lighter touch, consider a fresh salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the flavors.

For a more festive presentation, garnish the dish with fresh parsley or additional cherries. Using whole cherries or a sprig of fresh mint can add a visually appealing pop of color. Plate the duck breast slices fanned out under a drizzle of cherry sauce for an artistic touch that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish can be a perfect candidate for meal prep. You can cook the duck breasts in advance and simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they do not dry out. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time; store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a saucepan, adding a splash of water if it becomes too thick.

If you're planning to freeze the cherry sauce, be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three months. To defrost, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove. This is a great way to have a delicious sauce ready-to-go for a quick dinner without compromising on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries for the sauce?

Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly fine in the sauce. Just ensure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

→ What's the best way to check if the duck is cooked properly?

Using a meat thermometer is the best method. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare.

→ Can I prepare the cherry sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving for convenience.

→ What sides pair well with duck breast?

Roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light salad work beautifully with duck.