If you love cherries, you know that the season is all too brief, and it can be difficult to enjoy this delicious fruit all year long. You may be wondering if it’s possible to freeze cherries without losing their flavor. The good news is that cherries can be frozen and still retain their great taste. However, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure that your frozen cherries are the best quality possible. In this article, we’ll explore the answers to some of the most common questions people have about freezing cherries.
Can cherries be frozen?
Yes, cherries can be frozen. Freezing cherries is a great way to preserve them for future use. Cherries can be frozen whole or pitted, depending on your preference. In general, it’s best to remove the pits before freezing cherries, as they can be hard and not enjoyable to eat after being frozen. Freezing cherries doesn’t affect their nutritional value or taste, so you can enjoy them just as much as you would fresh cherries.
How to freeze cherries?
Pitting cherries
Before freezing cherries, you’ll need to remove the pits. Here are two methods to pit cherries:
- Cherry pitter: This is the easiest and most common method for pitting cherries. A cherry pitter is a small, handheld tool that allows you to remove the pits quickly and easily. Simply place the cherry in the pitter, press down, and the pit will pop out.
- Knife and a cutting board: If you don’t have a cherry pitter, you can use a knife and a cutting board to pit the cherries. Cut around the cherry to remove the stem, then cut the cherry in half along the crease. Use the knife to remove the pit.
Freezing cherries
Once the cherries are pitted, they are ready to be frozen. Here’s how to freeze cherries:
- Spread the cherries out in a single layer on a baking sheet or plate. Make sure the cherries aren’t touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet or plate of cherries in the freezer and freeze them for about 1 hour, or until they are frozen solid.
- Once the cherries are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to label the bag or container with the date and contents.
- Store the cherries in the freezer until you’re ready to use them.
How long can cherries be frozen?
Cherries can be frozen for up to 6 months. However, for the best quality, it’s recommended to use them within the first 3 months of freezing.
Should cherries be washed before freezing?
It’s not necessary to wash cherries before freezing them. Washing fresh cherries can cause them to absorb water, which can lead to a loss of flavor and texture when they are frozen. If you need to clean the cherries, do it with a dry cloth or paper towel.
How to thaw frozen cherries?
To thaw frozen cherries, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw them in a microwave, but be careful not to overheat them. Once thawed, the cherries can be eaten as they are or used in recipes.
What recipes can I use frozen cherries in?
Frozen cherries can be used in a variety of recipes, including smoothies, pies, cobblers, and cakes. They can also be added to oatmeal or yogurt for a quick breakfast. Frozen cherries are a great substitute for fresh cherries when they are out of season, and they can be used in any recipe that calls for fresh cherries.
Can I freeze cherry juice or cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can freeze cherry juice or cherry pie filling. Follow the same method as for freezing cherries. For cherry pie filling, mix the cherries with sugar and cornstarch before freezing. Cherry juice can be frozen in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Freeze it in a single layer and then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Conclusion
Freezing cherries is a great way to enjoy them all year round. Whether you’re freezing whole cherries or cherry pie filling, following the right method will ensure that you get the best quality cherries. Properly frozen cherries can last up to six months in the freezer, but it’s recommended to use them within three months for the best quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you freeze cherries without pits?
Yes, you can freeze cherries without pits. However, it’s recommended to remove the pits before freezing because they can affect the texture of the cherries once they are defrosted. - Can frozen cherries be used in smoothies?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used in smoothies. In fact, they are a great addition to any smoothie recipe. - Can frozen cherries be used in baking?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used in baking. They are a great substitute for fresh cherries in pies, cobblers, and cakes. - How do you know if frozen cherries are bad?
If frozen cherries have been stored for too long or have been exposed to freezer burn, they may have a bad taste or texture. Check for any signs of discoloration, mushiness, or unpleasant odor before using frozen cherries. - Can you freeze cherries in syrup?
Yes, you can freeze cherries in syrup. Simply mix the cherries with the syrup and follow the same freezing method as for whole cherries.
References
- “Can You Freeze Cherries?” by Jessica Gavin, published on July 1, 2019, on jessicagavin.com.
- “How to Freeze Cherries” by Julie Garden-Robinson, published on July 8, 2020, on ndsu.edu.
- “How to Freeze Cherries” by Katie Workman, published on June 24, 2019, on thespruceeats.com.