Can You Freeze Cherries? Yes—Here’s How & Why You Should

Cherries are one of summer’s sweetest delights, but their season is short. If you love this juicy fruit and want to enjoy it year-round, freezing is your best option. But can you freeze cherries without ruining their texture or taste? Absolutely!

In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to freeze cherries properly, how long they last, and how frozen cherries compare with fresh ones and other frozen fruits in terms of nutrition, taste, and versatility.

Why Freeze Cherries?

Freezing cherries is a smart way to:

• Extend their shelf life

• Preserve their flavor and nutrition

• Save money by buying in bulk when in season

• Use them in smoothies, baking, sauces, and more

How to Freeze Cherries the Right Way

Here’s a step-by-step method to freeze cherries at home:

Step 1: Wash the Cherries

Rinse thoroughly under cool water to remove dirt and pesticides.

Step 2: Remove Stems and Pits

Remove the stems. Then use a cherry pitter or small knife to remove the pits. Pitting helps prevent freezer burn and makes cherries easier to use later.

Step 3: Dry the Cherries

Pat them dry with a paper towel. Moisture causes ice crystals to form, which affects texture.

Step 4: Flash Freeze (Optional but Recommended)

Spread the cherries on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1–2 hours. This prevents them from clumping together in the bag.

Step 5: Transfer to Airtight Bag or Container

Use a freezer-safe zip-lock bag or container. Label it with the date.

Step 6: Freeze

Place in the coldest part of your freezer. Cherries can last up to 12 months when properly stored.

Can You Freeze Cherries with Pits?

Yes, but it's not ideal. Leaving the pits in makes them harder to use and increases the chance of freezer burn. Also, pitted cherries take up less space and are safer to blend or cook with.

Do Frozen Cherries Taste Good?

Yes! While they may lose a little firmness, frozen cherries retain most of their flavor, sweetness, and nutrients—especially when frozen at their ripest.

Frozen cherries are perfect for:

• Smoothies

• Yogurt bowls

• Pies and cobblers

• Cherry sauces

• Oatmeal and cereal toppings

Nutrition Profile of Cherries (1 cup, pitted, fresh or frozen)

• Calories: ~90

• Carbs: ~22g

• Fiber: ~3g

• Vitamin C: ~16% DV

• Antioxidants: High in anthocyanins and melatonin

• Glycemic Index: Low to moderate

Freezing does not significantly reduce nutritional value, especially for antioxidants and fiber.

Comparison: Freezing Cherries vs Other Fruits

Cherries are one of the best fruits to freeze due to their firmness and flavor retention.

Frozen vs Fresh Cherries: Which is Better?

Both are nutritious and beneficial, but frozen cherries offer more convenience and longevity.

Tips for Using Frozen Cherries

• No need to thaw for smoothies or oatmeal.

• Thaw slightly for baking—this helps avoid excess moisture in batter.

• Simmer with honey or maple syrup to create a cherry compote or sauce.

• Blend with yogurt or kefir for a probiotic-rich cherry smoothie.

Signs Frozen Cherries Have Gone Bad

• Freezer burn (frost build-up)

• Dry or shriveled appearance

• Sour or off smell after thawing

• Unpleasant texture or discoloration

Always store in airtight, freezer-safe containers to maintain quality.

Final Thoughts

So, can you freeze cherries? Definitely—and you should! Freezing cherries is an easy and effective way to enjoy this delicious fruit year-round without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Whether you're making a smoothie, baking a pie, or creating a fresh cherry sauce, frozen cherries are a healthy and versatile kitchen staple.

By freezing cherries at peak ripeness and following the simple steps outlined above, you’ll have a freezer full of fruity goodness anytime you need it.