How to Store and Freeze Cherries for Freshness All Year
Around this time of year, cherry trees are in full bloom and the cherry season is nearly here. If you’re lucky enough to have a cherry tree in your backyard, or if you’ve picked up a few pounds of cherries from the farmers market, here are some tips on how to store and freeze them.
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How Long do Cherries Last After You Pick Them?
Cherries are a delicious and healthy fruit that can be enjoyed all year round. One of the best ways to keep cherries fresh is to pick them when they are ripe and then freeze them.
Frozen cherries will stay good for up to 6 months in your freezer, or a year in a deep freeze. This way, you can enjoy the taste of fresh cherries even during the winter months!
How to Store Cherries
Cherries are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be used in sweet or savory dishes. They can be eaten fresh, cooked, or dried, and they make a lovely addition to any summertime meal.
However, sweet and sour cherries can also be a bit delicate, and they need to be stored properly to preserve their flavor and texture. Fresh cherries should be kept in the refrigerator in a sealable bag or an airtight container.
If you plan on using cherries within a few days, they can simply be stored in a bowl on the counter. However, cherries will last for several weeks if kept in the fridge.
To enjoy fresh cherries for longer, proper storage is key. Here are some tips:
- Keep Them Cool: Cherries are best stored in the fridge. Place them in a shallow container to prevent bruising and cover loosely with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
- Avoid Washing Before Storage: Excess moisture can cause cherries to spoil faster. Only wash them right before eating or using.
- Use a Perforated Bag: If possible, store cherries in a perforated plastic bag. This allows airflow while keeping them fresh.
- Watch for Spoilage: Regularly check for any damaged or moldy cherries and remove them immediately to prevent them from affecting the rest.
Dried cherries can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to six months. No matter how you plan on using them, cherries are best when they’re fresh.
How to Preserve Cherries by Canning
Canned cherries make an excellent addition to a number of cherry recipes, and they are also a delicious treat on their own. While cherries can be canned using a variety of methods, the most important thing to remember is to use ripe, juicy cherries.
To start, wash the cherries and remove the stems. Then, add the cherries to a large pot of boiling water and let them cook for two minutes. After two minutes, remove the cherries from the pot and place them in a colander to drain.
Next, sterilize your canning jars by boiling them in a pot of water for ten minutes. Once the jars are sterilized, fill them with cherries, leaving half an inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
Finally, seal the jars with lids and rings and process them in a boiling water bath for ten minutes. Once processed, allow the jars to cool before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Canned cherries will last for up to one year when stored properly.
How to Freeze Cherries Without Pits
Freezing cherries without pits is an excellent option if you plan to use them in smoothies, baking, or cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Wash and Dry the Cherries: Start by thoroughly washing your cherries under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Remove the Pits: Use a cherry pitter for the easiest and quickest method. If you don’t have one, a paperclip or straw can work as a DIY solution.
- Lay Them Out: Place the pitted cherries in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Freeze Individually: Pop the tray in the freezer for 2–3 hours or until the cherries are solid.
- Store in a Freezer-Safe Bag: Transfer the frozen cherries to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Label it with the date for reference.
Can You Freeze Cherries Whole?
Yes, you can freeze cherries whole, and it’s one of the easiest methods for preserving them. Here’s how:
- Clean and Dry: Rinse the cherries under cold water and dry them completely to avoid ice crystals forming during freezing.
- Leave the Stems and Pits: You don’t need to remove the stems or pits if you’re freezing cherries whole. Keeping them intact can even help preserve their natural juices.
- Flash Freeze: Arrange the cherries in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze until solid.
- Pack Them Up: Transfer the frozen cherries to a freezer-safe bag or container, label with the date, and store them for up to a year.
How to Pit Cherries
Summertime is peak season for cherries, and there’s nothing quite like enjoying a fresh, juicy cherry. But before you can enjoy them, you have to pit them!
The best option for pitting cherries is with a cherry pitter. This kitchen gadget is specifically designed for removing the pit from cherries, and it’s easy to use.
Simply insert the cherry into the pitter and press down. The pit will be released from the cherry and collected in the chamber of the pitter. When you’re finished, simply empty out the chamber and wash the pitter.
If you don’t have a cherry pitter, you can use a tweezer or an unbent paperclip. Just insert the tool into the stem end of the cherry and push it through to the other side. The pit should come out easily, leaving you with perfect pitted cherries that are ready to eat or cook with.
FAQ About Storing and Freezing Cherries
How long do cherries last in the freezer?
Frozen cherries can last up to a year when stored properly in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. For the best flavor and texture, try to use them within six months.
Do I need to blanch cherries before freezing?
No, cherries don’t require blanching before freezing. Simply wash, dry, and freeze them. Blanching is more common for preserving vegetables.
Can I freeze cherries in syrup?
Yes, freezing cherries in syrup is a great option if you want to preserve their sweetness and texture for desserts. To do this, dissolve sugar in water to create a syrup, pour it over the cherries in a container, and then freeze.
What’s the best way to defrost frozen cherries?
You can defrost cherries in the fridge overnight if you need them thawed. Alternatively, use them straight from the freezer in smoothies or baking, as they don’t always need defrosting.
Can I freeze cherries with stems on?
Yes, you can freeze cherries with the stems on. This method works well for whole cherries, especially if you’re not sure how you’ll use them later.
Do frozen cherries get mushy when thawed?
Yes, cherries may become slightly softer or mushy after thawing due to their high water content. They’re best used in recipes like pies, jams, or smoothies rather than eaten plain.
Can I freeze dried or candied cherries?
Dried or candied cherries don’t usually need freezing, as they have a long shelf life when stored in a cool, dry place. However, you can freeze them if needed for extended storage.
Is it better to freeze cherries with or without the pits?
It depends on how you plan to use them. Freezing cherries without pits is more convenient for cooking and baking. Whole cherries with pits are better for snacking or if you want to preserve their shape and juice.
How can I prevent frozen cherries from clumping together?
Flash freezing is the best method. Spread cherries in a single layer on a baking tray, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a storage bag or container.
Throw Out Bruised Cherries
If you find cherries that are bruised, it’s best to throw them out and not try to store or freeze them. The reason for this is that cherries are very delicate and bruises can quickly lead to mold. Mold can cause the cherries to rot and will make them unsafe to eat.
Additionally, cherries that are bruised are more likely to have been damaged by insects or other pests, which can also contaminate them. So if you find cherries that are bruised, it’s best to discard them to avoid any potential health risks.
