Freezing cherries at home is a simple way to extend their shelf-life. They’re delicious in smoothies, where they add antioxidants and flavor.
Freezing Cherries
Frozen cherries are often sold in stores, but it’s easy to freeze fresh ones at home. Cherries only last 3-4 days on the countertop and 1 week in the fridge. But in the freezer, they can last several months.
Nutritionally, frozen cherries are similar to fresh ones. The low temperature of the freezer will protect the nutrients, flavor, and color.
RELATED: How to Freeze Strawberries
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Place the cherries in a colander. Wash them under cool running water.
Step 2: Transfer the cherries on a clean towel. Pat dry.
Step 3: Cut the cherries in half. Remove the pits.
Step 4: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the cherry halves on the sheet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them.
Step 5: Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the cherries are frozen.
Step 6: Store the cherries in a freezer-safe bag.
Photo Credit: amazon.com
Expert Tips
Only wash cherries before freezing.
Avoid washing cherries until you’re ready to freeze or use them. The moisture can will make them spoil faster.
Use a cherry pitter.
If you want to leave the cherries whole, use a cherry pitter. This is a tool that removes the pits without having to cut the cherry.
Cut cherries in halves or quarters.
For less powerful blenders, slice the cherries in halves or quarters. If your blender is high-powered, you can remove the pit and leave them whole.
Freeze cherries on a plate.
When freezing cherries, you can also place them on a freezer-safe plate. This is a good idea if the baking tray won’t fit in your freezer.
Questions You May Have
Yes, but only wash them just before they go in the freezer. It’s also important to dry them well to ensure they don’t stick together.
Cherries will keep for about 8-12 months in the freezer. The quality and flavor will be best the sooner you eat them.
You can add frozen cherries (pit removed) directly to smoothies. They’ll make the drink cold, thick, and icy. If you thaw the cherries first, they’ll become mushy and soft.
Related
- How to Freeze Pineapples
- How to Freeze Mango
- How to Freeze Raspberries
- How to Freeze Bananas
- How to Freeze Blueberries
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How to Freeze Cherries
INGREDIENTS
- Cherries
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare baking sheet.Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
- Wash and dry the cherries.Place the in a colander. Wash them under cool running water for 10 to 20 seconds. Transfer the cherries on a clean towel. Pat dry until completely dry.
- Cut the cherries in half. Remove the pits.
- Put the cherries in the freezer for 1-2 hours.Place the cherries on the baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure the cherries aren't crowded together. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer. Freeze for 1 to 2 hours, or until the cherries are frozen.
- Put frozen cherries into a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer.Remove the excess air and press the seal to close. Use frozen cherries in 8-12 months for the best flavor.
NOTES
- Avoid washing cherries until you’re ready to freeze or use them. The moisture can will make them spoil faster.
- If you want to leave the cherries whole, use a cherry pitter. This is a tool that removes the pits without having to cut the cherry.
- For less powerful blenders, slice the cherries in halves or quarters. If your blender is high-powered, you can remove the pit and leave them whole.
- When freezing cherries, you can also place them on a freezer-safe plate. This is a good idea if the baking tray won’t fit in your freezer.