How to Store Cherries

Cherries are a sweet-tart fruit perfect for pies, tarts or just eating plain. They are also loaded with antioxidants that help your body stay healthy. Keep fresh cherries in the refrigerator for best storage.

Things You'll Need

• Fresh cherries
• Shallow bowl or other container
• Plastic wrap or clean tea towel

Instructions

1. Since cherries are tender and easily bruised, store them in a wide shallow bowl to help distribute the weight. A rigid container will also help them from getting bumped around in the fridge.

2. Top the bowl with a loose plastic wrap or a clean tea towel. A loose cover keeps them from drying out, but also allows for air circulation, which will help prevent mold.

3. Rinse and pit cherries just prior to eating. For best flavor, allow the cherries to come to room temperature.

4. Use fresh cherries within 2 to 4 days of purchase.

Tips & Warnings

• Cherries may also be frozen or dried. To freeze, rinse and pit the cherries, then place them in a single layer on a cookie sheet in the freezer until they are frozen solid, then transfer to a zipper top freezer bag or other air-tight container. To dry, rinse and pit the cherries, then follow the instructions on your dehydrator.