Cherries

The cherry is one of the star fruits of early summer: juicy, sweet, and truly irresistible. It can be enjoyed on its own or used in countless recipes. Despite its small size, it is quite delicate: full of water and covered with thin skin, cherries bruise easily and do not continue to ripen once picked. To fully enjoy their flavor, they must be chosen firm, shiny, with a still‑green stem, and stored properly.

Short term storage

Unwashed cherries generally keep 3 to 7 days in the refrigerator, sometimes up to a week under good conditions. Keep them with their stems (which protect the fruit), in a breathable container (a perforated bag) or lined with paper towels to reduce moisture. It’s important to wash them only right before eating, as added moisture makes them spoil faster.

Freezing

Freezing is a simple and effective way to preserve cherries year round. After washing, stemming, and thoroughly drying them, they can be frozen whole or pitted. Ideally, spread them out on a tray to freeze individually before transferring them to an airtight bag. They will keep all winter and are ready to use in smoothies, desserts, or sauces.

Dehydration

Cherries can also be dehydrated to make a sweet, flavor concentrated snack. Wash, pit, and dry them in a dehydrator or in the oven at low temperature until they become supple and slightly chewy. Then transfer them to an airtight container, where they will keep for several months.

Canning

Cherries are well suited for canning, often in light syrup, juice, or even water. This method allows long term pantry storage. They can be kept whole or pitted depending on the intended use (desserts, pies, compotes).

Jam, syrup, or coulis

Cherries are ideal for processed preparations such as jam, coulis, and syrup. This is a great way to use very ripe fruit and extend their shelf life.

Pro tip for pitting

Place a cherry (without the stem) on the narrow opening of a bottle, then push a rigid straw through the center: the pit falls directly into the bottle, and the flesh stays intact. Watch out for the juice—it stains!

Anti waste tip

Very ripe or slightly damaged cherries are perfect for clafoutis, compote, or quick jam.