[2] Already have baked brownies? Press soaked dried cherries into the top or whip up a light film of icing to hold the cherries (photo © Alison’s Gourmet).

The legend of George Washington and the cherry tree was an invention of book agent Mason Locke Weems, in his 1800 biography, “The Life of Washington.” The cherry tree has been associated with Washington ever since.

Washington’s Birthday was declared a federal holiday by Congress in 1880,* the first federal holiday to honor an American citizen.

Cherry pie, typically made with canned tart cherries, became a popular way to celebrate the day. Over the years, many other cherry recipes followed.

Alas for those who like fresh ingredients, cherry season is in summer. But quality canned cherries (we like Chukar Cherries), frozen cherries and dried cherries enable cooks and bakers to express their patriotism—or at least, use the occasion to make something different.

For the President’s Day weekend, a batch of cherry brownies will hit the spot with your family and friends:

 
Prefer a chocolate chip cookie? Here’s our recipe for yummy cherry chocolate chip cookies.
 
 
> Check out the history of brownies.

*Initially the holiday was for government offices in the District of Columbia. In 1885 it was expanded to include all federal offices. State government offices, including schools, followed suit, followed by banks and other businesses. The holiday was celebrated on Washington’s actual birthday, February 22nd, until 1971, when it was shifted to the third Monday in February and combined with the Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12th) celebration to allow federal employees a three-day weekend.