How to Use a Cherry Pitter

The purpose of cherry pitters is to remove pits easily from cherries and olives. They are convenient when baking pies, preserves and canning. There are three types of pitters, the handheld, clamp and tabletop. The typical handheld pitter will have two handles, a shaft and a small holding tray with an open hole in the center. All types should remove pits from the cherry while leaving the fruit undamaged.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Using a Handheld Cherry Pitter

1. Wash and drain cherries and remove stems.
2. Put the cherry into the cherry pitter. Place the fruit into the center of the open hole of the holding tray.
3. Hold the cherry pitter over a container for the pits.
4. Squeeze the handles together. This will eject the pit through the open hole.

Using Clamp and Tabletop Cherry Pitters

5. Clamp the pitter to the table or counter or set it on top of your work area.
6. Wash and drain cherries and remove the stems.
7. Fill up the automatic feed tray with cherries. Push the plunger to remove the pits.
8. Depress the plunger all the way for best results. The plunger forces the pit into a container. Some cherry pitters lift the cherry and drop it into a bowl.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your cherry pitter prior to first use.
• Place the pitter in the dishwasher in the locked position. Use the locking mechanism for storage.
• Some pitters have splatter shields that prevent juice from splashing on you and the counter.
• If your pitter doesn't have a splashguard, don't wear a white or new shirt when using.
• These models pit many cherries at a time, making them great for use when canning or freezing. The device is much faster than pitting by hand.
• Some are dishwasher safe, while others should be hand washed and dried.
• Don't fill the cherry hopper all the way.