How to Freeze Cherries

If you want to learn how to freeze cherries, you’re in the right place! All you need are fresh cherries, a handful of tools and 10-20 minutes to prepare and freeze them for optimal freshness. Frozen cherries are great in smoothies, as well as baked goods, and taste like the summer all year long.

Prep Time 20

Freezing Time 4

Total Time 4 20

Servings lbs.

Calories 71kcal

Ingredients

2 lbs. fresh cherries

Instructions

Wash the cherries. Pat them dry or let them air dry on the countertop for a few hours.
Remove the stems, and then pit the cherries. Use a tool (like a cherry pitter) or a knife. If using a knife, find the crease in the cherry skin and follow it with the blade of your knife. Open the cherry open and pop the pit out with your thumb.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with wax paper. This will prevent the cherries from sticking. You may also use parchment.
Place the halved cherries on the baking sheet. Give them a little space so they don’t freeze together.
Transfer the sheet pan to the freezer, and freeze for 4-6 hours, or until frozen solid.
Transfer the cherries to a freezer-safe storage bag (or container). Freeze for up to 6 months.

Notes

Tips and tricks:

If you’re freezing a lot of cherries, consider purchasing a cherry pitter. This will make the work significantly easier.
Use tart or sweet cherries. This freezing cherries tutorial works for any type of fresh cherries.
Prepare for a mess. Cherries are messy when you cut into them. They can stain your hands and cutting board. Feel free to use disposable kitchen gloves to prevent staining.

Nutrition