❄️ Freezing Cherries: A Simple Guide for UK Households

🇬🇧 Introduction: Preserve Cherry Season the Easy Way

British cherry season is short but sweet—typically running from late June through August. If you find yourself with a surplus of cherries (from pick-your-own farms, allotments, or summer markets), freezing cherries is one of the easiest and most effective ways to preserve their flavour for year-round enjoyment.

Whether you’re saving sweet or sour varieties, this guide will walk you through how to freeze cherries properly for baking, smoothies, or snacking.

🍒 Can You Freeze Cherries?

Yes! Cherries freeze extremely well. Once pitted and stored properly, they retain flavour and texture for up to 12 months. You can freeze them whole, halved, or even stewed—depending on how you plan to use them.

🧑‍🍳 How to Freeze Fresh Cherries (Step-by-Step)

1. Wash Thoroughly

• Rinse cherries in cool water to remove dirt or debris.
• Drain well and gently pat dry with a clean tea towel.

2. Pit the Cherries

• Remove the stalks and pit using a cherry pitter, metal straw, or small knife.
• You can freeze cherries with stones, but pitting now saves time later.

3. Flash Freeze on a Tray

• Spread pitted cherries on a baking tray in a single layer.
• Freeze for 2–4 hours until firm. This prevents clumping in the bag later.

4. Transfer to Freezer Bags or Containers

• Label with the date and variety (e.g., sweet, sour, Morello).
• Remove excess air before sealing to avoid freezer burn.

5. Store

• Keep at –18°C or colder. Use within 10–12 months for best quality.

🥄 Optional: Freeze in Syrup or Sugar (For Desserts)

For softer texture and sweeter flavour, try:

• Dry Sugar Pack: Toss pitted cherries with 100g sugar per 500g fruit before freezing.
• Syrup Pack: Cover cherries with cooled sugar syrup (4 parts water to 1 part sugar) in a rigid container.

These options work well for making compotes, jams, and sauces.

❄️ How to Use Frozen Cherries

• Baking: Use frozen in cakes, muffins, pies—no need to thaw first.
• Smoothies: Blend straight from frozen.
• Jam-making: Thaw overnight before use.
• Crumble or compote: Cook straight from frozen with sugar and spices.
• Snacking: Let thaw slightly for a refreshing treat on hot days.

🧠 FAQs

1. Do I need to pit cherries before freezing?
It’s optional, but pitting before freezing saves hassle later—especially for baking.

2. Can I freeze cherries with stones?
Yes, but they’re harder to use once frozen and can pose a choking hazard if overlooked.

3. Can I freeze cherries with stalks on?
You can, but it’s better to remove them for space-saving and easier prep.

4. Will frozen cherries go mushy?
Slightly—they soften when thawed, which is fine for baking or sauces but not ideal for fresh salads.

5. How long can I freeze cherries for?
Up to 12 months. After that, they’re still safe but may lose flavour and texture.

6. What’s the best container for freezing cherries?
Zip freezer bags (with air pressed out) or airtight plastic tubs work well.

📋 Quick Freezing Guide

🌟 Conclusion

Freezing cherries is a smart, no-fuss way to extend cherry season long after summer fades. Whether you’re saving sweet cherries for baking or sour cherries for jam, freezing gives you flexibility, convenience, and reduced waste. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy British cherries all year round—from pies to smoothies and everything in between.