Last updated: June 18, 2026
Quick Answer: June 18 National Cherry Tart Day is an informal food holiday observed annually on June 18 in the United States, dedicated to celebrating the classic cherry tart in all its forms. The day encourages bakers and food lovers to make, share, or simply enjoy cherry tarts at home, at bakeries, or with friends. While the holiday has no single official governing body, it appears consistently on major food holiday calendars and has grown into a widely recognized annual observance. [1][3][10]
Key Takeaways
- June 18 National Cherry Tart Day falls on June 18 each year, though a small number of sources list June 17 as an alternate date.
- The holiday is informal and unofficial, but it is listed on dozens of food holiday calendars and celebrated widely across the United States.
- A cherry tart differs from a cherry pie primarily in its open-face design, shallow pastry shell, and use of a custard or cream filling beneath the fruit.
- Fresh sour cherries are the traditional choice for tarts, but frozen cherries work well when fresh are out of season.
- No-bake cherry tart recipes using store-bought shells make the holiday accessible to anyone, regardless of baking experience.
- Common baking mistakes include using sweet cherries instead of sour ones, over-filling the shell, and skipping the blind-bake step.
- Cherry tarts can be adapted for gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan diets with simple substitutions.
- Local bakeries, grocery store bakery sections, and specialty pastry shops are the easiest places to find ready-made cherry tarts.
What Is National Cherry Tart Day?
National Cherry Tart Day is an annual informal food holiday that celebrates the cherry tart, a classic pastry with deep roots in European and American baking traditions. The day is observed on June 18 each year and is recognized across food holiday directories, lifestyle blogs, and culinary communities. [1][3]
The holiday has no single founder on record and no official government or culinary organization backing it. That is true of most American food holidays, which tend to emerge organically through food industry promotion, bakery marketing, and enthusiastic home bakers. What matters is that the day gives everyone a reason to appreciate a genuinely delicious pastry.
A cherry tart, at its core, is a shallow pastry shell (called a tart shell or pate sucree) filled with a custard, cream, or almond-based filling, then topped with cherries. The open-face design is what separates it from a pie. The result is a dessert that is both visually striking and intensely flavorful.
When Is National Cherry Tart Day Celebrated?
National Cherry Tart Day is most commonly observed on June 18. Multiple food holiday calendars, including major reference sites, list June 18 as the primary date. [1][3][4][10]
A small number of sources, including Awarenessdays.com, note that June 17 is sometimes listed as an alternate date, with a handful of other sources placing it on June 21. [2] For practical purposes, June 18 is the date used by the majority of U.S.-focused food holiday calendars and is the most widely cited date for celebration.
Why the date variation matters: If you are planning a bakery promotion, a social media campaign, or a community event around this holiday, anchoring to June 18 gives you the broadest audience reach and the most consistent search visibility.
Why Is June 18 Cherry Tart Day?
The specific origin of June 18 as Cherry Tart Day is not definitively documented, but the timing aligns naturally with early summer cherry season in North America. June is when sour cherries (the variety most prized for baking) begin to ripen across major growing regions like Michigan, Oregon, and Washington. [7][8]
The logic is straightforward: celebrating cherry tarts in mid-June means fresh cherries are either just arriving at farmers’ markets or are days away from peak availability. The holiday essentially serves as a culinary marker for the start of cherry season.
Some food historians note that tarts made with cherries have appeared in English and French cookbooks since at least the 17th century, making the cherry tart one of the older fruit pastry traditions in Western baking. [8] The modern American food holiday format simply gave that tradition a calendar date.
Cherry Tart History and Origin
The cherry tart has a documented history stretching back several centuries in European baking. Early English recipe books from the 1600s include instructions for open-faced fruit tarts using seasonal stone fruits, with cherries among the most common choices. French patisserie formalized the tart format, developing the classic pate sucree shell and crème patissière filling that still defines the style today. [8]
In the United States, cherry desserts gained cultural prominence partly through the legend of George Washington and the cherry tree, which cemented the cherry as a symbolically American fruit. Cherry pie became a national staple, and the cherry tart followed as a more refined, European-influenced variation.
The formal observance of June 18 National Cherry Tart Day appears to have emerged in the late 20th or early 21st century alongside the broader American food holiday calendar movement. [6] These informal holidays proliferated as food brands, bloggers, and culinary communities looked for themed content hooks throughout the calendar year.
For fans of other fruit-based pastry holidays, National Cherry Cobbler Day on May 17 and National Cherry Cheesecake Day on April 23 round out a cherry-focused spring and summer calendar.
Cherry Tart vs Cherry Pie: What Is the Difference?
A cherry tart and a cherry pie are related but distinct pastries. The key differences come down to the shell, the filling structure, and the presentation.
| Feature | Cherry Tart | Cherry Pie |
|---|---|---|
| Shell type | Shallow, firm, buttery pate sucree | Deeper, flaky pie crust |
| Top crust | Open face (no top crust) | Closed or lattice top crust |
| Filling base | Custard, cream, or frangipane | Fruit filling only (cherries + sugar) |
| Presentation | Elegant, restaurant-style | Rustic, homestyle |
| Pan used | Tart pan with removable bottom | Deep pie dish |
The tart’s open-face design means the cherries are always visible, which makes glazing and arrangement a central part of the presentation. A pie, by contrast, hides its filling under a crust. If you enjoy the look of a beautifully arranged fruit dessert, the tart format is the better choice.
Fans of fruit-based pastry holidays might also enjoy reading about National Apple Pie Day on May 13 and National Coconut Cream Pie Day on May 8 for more seasonal baking inspiration.
How to Make a Cherry Tart at Home
Making a cherry tart at home requires three components: the tart shell, the filling, and the cherry topping. Each can be made from scratch or simplified with store-bought shortcuts.
Classic Cherry Tart: Step-by-Step
Ingredients (one 9-inch tart):
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 0.5 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 0.25 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh or frozen pitted sour cherries
- 3 tablespoons cherry jam or red currant jelly (for glaze)
Steps:
- Make the shell. Combine flour, powdered sugar, and cold butter in a food processor until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water. Pulse until the dough just comes together. Press into a 9-inch tart pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Blind bake. Line the chilled shell with parchment and fill with baking weights or dried beans. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove weights and bake another 8 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
- Make the custard (crème patissière). Heat milk until steaming. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl. Slowly pour hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring, until thick. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface. Cool completely.
- Assemble. Spread the cooled custard into the tart shell. Arrange cherries on top in a single layer.
- Glaze. Warm the jam with one tablespoon of water, strain if needed, and brush over the cherries for a glossy finish.
- Chill. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
Total active time: approximately 45 minutes. Total time including chilling: about 3 hours.
Best Cherry Tart Recipes and Flavor Variations
The classic custard-and-cherry tart is just the starting point. Cherry tarts appear in many regional and contemporary variations.
Popular cherry tart styles:
- French cherry tart (Tarte aux cerises): Crème patissière base, fresh cherries, mirror glaze. The benchmark version.
- Frangipane cherry tart: Almond cream filling baked with cherries pressed in. Richer and nuttier than the custard version.
- Cherry clafoutis tart: A custardy, pancake-like batter baked with cherries in a tart shell. Rustic and simple.
- Black Forest tart: Chocolate ganache base, whipped cream, and dark cherries. Inspired by the German cake.
- Cherry cream cheese tart: Cream cheese and whipped cream filling with a cherry pie filling topping. No-bake and beginner-friendly.
- Sour cherry and thyme tart: A contemporary savory-sweet variation using fresh thyme in the custard.
For those who enjoy exploring pastry variations, the National Mocha Torte Day guide covers another elegant European-style pastry with similar technique overlap.
Fresh vs Frozen Cherries for Cherry Tarts
Fresh sour cherries produce the best flavor in a cherry tart, but frozen cherries are a reliable and often more practical alternative. The choice depends on the season and your location.
Fresh cherries: Peak season runs from late May through early August in the U.S. Sour cherries (Montmorency variety) are the standard for baking because their tartness balances the sweetness of the custard. Sweet cherries like Bing can work but produce a less complex flavor.
Frozen cherries: Available year-round and pre-pitted, which saves significant prep time. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using, or the tart shell will become soggy. Frozen sour cherries are sold at most major grocery stores and are nearly indistinguishable from fresh once baked or glazed.
Decision rule: Use fresh cherries if it is June through July and you have access to a farmers’ market or specialty grocer. Use frozen cherries at any other time of year, or when convenience is the priority.
Common Mistakes When Baking Cherry Tarts
Even experienced bakers run into problems with cherry tarts. These are the most frequent issues and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the blind bake. Without pre-baking the shell, the bottom stays raw and soggy under the custard. Always blind bake.
- Using sweet cherries instead of sour. Sweet cherries make the tart cloying. Sour (Montmorency) cherries provide the tartness that balances the custard.
- Adding cherries while the custard is warm. Warm custard will cause the cherries to sink and release juice into the filling. Always cool the custard fully before assembling.
- Not draining frozen cherries. Excess moisture from frozen cherries will make the shell soggy within hours. Drain and pat dry before use.
- Over-filling the shell. A tart shell is shallow. Overfilling makes it impossible to arrange cherries neatly and causes spillage when slicing.
- Skipping the glaze. The glaze is not just decorative. It seals the cherries, prevents browning, and adds a professional finish.
Cherry Tart Without Baking Skills: No-Bake Options
A no-bake cherry tart is achievable in under 30 minutes and requires no oven. This approach is ideal for beginners, for hot summer days when baking feels impractical, or for anyone who wants a quick celebration dessert for June 18 National Cherry Tart Day.
Simple no-bake method:
- Buy a pre-made graham cracker tart shell or shortbread tart shell from the grocery store bakery section.
- Beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 0.25 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth.
- Fold in 1 cup of whipped cream or thawed whipped topping.
- Spread the filling into the shell.
- Top with canned cherry pie filling or fresh glazed cherries.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
The result is a genuine cherry tart that requires no pastry skills, no custard-making, and no oven. It serves 6 to 8 people and can be assembled in about 20 minutes of active time.
Cherry Tart Allergens and Substitutions
A standard cherry tart contains several common allergens. Knowing the substitutions makes it possible to adapt the recipe for most dietary needs.
Common allergens in a classic cherry tart:
- Gluten (tart shell flour)
- Dairy (butter in the shell, milk in the custard)
- Eggs (shell and custard)
- Tree nuts (if using frangipane filling with almonds)
Substitution options:
| Allergen | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Gluten | Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the shell |
| Dairy (butter) | Use cold vegan butter or coconut oil |
| Dairy (milk) | Use full-fat oat milk or coconut milk for custard |
| Eggs (custard) | Use a cornstarch-only custard (increase to 3 tbsp cornstarch per 1.5 cups milk) |
| Eggs (shell) | Use 1 tbsp cold water as a binder substitute |
| Tree nuts | Omit frangipane; use custard or cream cheese filling instead |
Gluten-free tart shells tend to be more fragile than standard ones. Handle them gently and consider chilling the assembled tart longer before slicing.
How to Celebrate June 18 National Cherry Tart Day
Celebrating June 18 National Cherry Tart Day does not require a full baking project. There are several ways to mark the day, depending on available time and interest.
At home:
- Bake a classic French cherry tart using fresh sour cherries from a local market.
- Try a no-bake cherry cream cheese tart for a quick, low-effort option.
- Host a small tasting with two or three different cherry tart variations.
At a bakery or restaurant:
- Visit a local French patisserie or specialty bakery and ask if they offer cherry tarts or plan a June 18 special.
- Order a custom cherry tart from a local cake shop as a celebration dessert.
Online and social:
- Share a photo of a homemade or purchased cherry tart on social media with the hashtag #NationalCherryTartDay.
- Post a recipe or baking tip to food communities on Reddit, Instagram, or Pinterest.
With kids:
- Use a no-bake recipe and let children arrange the cherries on top. It is a low-mess, high-reward kitchen activity.
For more fruit-forward dessert holiday ideas, the National Strawberries and Cream Day guide and the April 23 National Cherry Cheesecake Day article offer closely related recipes and celebration ideas.
Where to Buy Cherry Tarts Near You
Ready-made cherry tarts are available at several types of retailers. The quality and style vary significantly by source.
Best places to find cherry tarts:
- French patisseries and European-style bakeries: The highest quality option. These shops typically make tarts fresh daily with proper pate sucree shells and crème patissière.
- Specialty grocery store bakery sections: Stores like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and regional co-ops often carry fruit tarts, especially during cherry season.
- Standard grocery store bakery counters: Quality varies, but many carry a basic fruit tart with a pre-made shell and cream filling.
- Online bakeries: Several artisan bakeries ship overnight. Search for “cherry tart delivery” plus your city for local options.
- Farmers’ markets: In June and July, some market vendors sell fresh-baked fruit tarts alongside fresh cherries.
Tip: Call ahead on June 18 if you plan to buy rather than bake. Bakeries near you may run limited specials for National Cherry Tart Day, and popular items can sell out early in the day.
FAQ: June 18 National Cherry Tart Day
Q: Is June 18 National Cherry Tart Day an official public holiday? No. It is an informal food holiday with no government or official culinary organization backing. It is observed voluntarily by bakers, food bloggers, and culinary communities. [3]
Q: What is the difference between a tart and a tartlet? A tart is a full-size pastry, typically 8 to 11 inches in diameter. A tartlet is a miniature individual-serving version, usually 3 to 4 inches across. Both can be made with cherry filling.
Q: What type of cherries are best for a tart? Sour cherries, particularly the Montmorency variety, are the traditional choice for baking. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the custard or cream filling. Sweet cherries like Bing can be used but produce a sweeter, less complex result.
Q: Can cherry tarts be made ahead of time? Yes. The tart shell can be baked and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. The assembled tart (with custard and cherries) is best eaten within 24 hours of assembly, as the shell softens over time.
Q: How long does a cherry tart last in the refrigerator? An assembled cherry tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. After that, the shell becomes noticeably soft and the custard may weep.
Q: Is a cherry tart the same as a cherry clafoutis? No. A clafoutis is a baked French dessert made by pouring a thick batter over cherries in a baking dish. It has no pastry shell. A cherry tart has a defined pastry crust.
Q: Can I freeze a cherry tart? The baked tart shell can be frozen for up to one month. The fully assembled tart does not freeze well because custard separates and cherries release water when thawed.
Q: What wine or drink pairs well with a cherry tart? A light Pinot Noir, a sparkling rosé, or a cherry-forward fruit tea all complement the tart’s flavor profile. For a non-alcoholic option, a cold brew coffee or iced black tea works well.
Q: Is there a vegan cherry tart option? Yes. Use vegan butter in the shell, substitute full-fat oat milk or coconut milk for dairy milk in the custard, and replace eggs with a cornstarch-thickened custard. The result is a fully plant-based tart.
Q: Why does my tart shell shrink during baking? Shrinkage happens when the dough is overworked or not chilled long enough before baking. Chill the shaped shell for at least 30 minutes before blind baking, and avoid stretching the dough when pressing it into the pan.
Conclusion
June 18 National Cherry Tart Day is a straightforward, enjoyable food holiday that lands at exactly the right moment in the calendar: just as fresh sour cherries begin appearing at markets and the summer baking season gets underway. Whether the goal is to bake a classic French-style tart from scratch, assemble a no-bake version in 20 minutes, or simply pick one up from a local patisserie, the day offers a genuine reason to engage with one of the most elegant pastries in the Western baking tradition.
Actionable next steps for 2026:
- Mark June 18 on your calendar now and decide in advance whether you are baking or buying.
- If baking, source fresh sour cherries from a local farmers’ market in the week leading up to June 18.
- If you are new to tart-making, start with the no-bake cream cheese version to build confidence before attempting a full custard tart.
- Share your tart on social media using #NationalCherryTartDay to connect with other cherry tart enthusiasts.
- Explore related cherry dessert holidays throughout the year, including National Cherry Cobbler Day on May 17 and National Cherry Cheesecake Day on April 23, to keep cherry-based baking in rotation all season long.
The cherry tart is not a complicated dessert at its core. It rewards attention to a few key details: a properly blind-baked shell, a fully cooled custard, and the right variety of cherry. Get those three things right, and the result speaks for itself.
References
[1] dayspedia – https://dayspedia.com/us/calendar/holiday/1495/ [2] National Cherry Tart Day – https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/national-cherry-tart-day/ [3] National Cherry Tart Day – https://nationaltoday.com/national-cherry-tart-day/ [4] National Cherry Tart Day Intl – https://www.nationalholiday.co.uk/national-cherry-tart-day-intl/ [5] National Cherry Tart Day – https://www.checkiday.com/3696783b9cba7d9f802074db7290e65f/national-cherry-tart-day [6] National Cherry Tart Day 1983 – https://www.wikidates.org/holiday/national-cherry-tart-day_1983.html [7] Cherry Tart Day – https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/cherry-tart-day/ [8] Cherry Tarts And Summer – https://bakingheritage.com/history/cherry-tarts-and-summer [10] June 18 – https://www.calendaroftheday.com/june-18/