How to Eat Cherries: Selection, Storage and 10 Delicious Recipes

Introduction

Cherries are a juicy, flavorful and nutrient-rich fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Eating cherries can provide a range of health benefits, including antioxidant properties, pain relief and improved sleep quality. This article provides an overview of how to select and store cherries, as well as 10 delicious recipes that make the most of their unique flavor. Additionally, readers will learn about the health benefits of eating cherries and the best ways to enjoy them fresh.

Selection and Storage

When selecting cherries, look for ones that are plump, firm and deep red in color. Avoid any that have soft spots, wrinkles or mold. The stem should still be attached and the skin should be smooth. The darker the color, the sweeter the cherry.

To store cherries, place them in a plastic bag or container with a few holes poked in it. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them either pitted or unpitted. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to a year.

10 Delicious Cherry Recipes

There are countless recipes that make use of cherries’ unique flavor. Here are 10 favorites:

Cherry Pie Recipe

This classic recipe is a great way to enjoy cherries. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Roll out a double crust pastry dough and line a 9-inch pie plate with one of the crusts. In a bowl, mix together 4 cups of pitted cherries, 3/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie shell and dot with 2 tablespoons of butter. Cover with the remaining crust and cut several slits in the top. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cherry Cobbler Recipe

This delicious cobbler is easy to make and sure to be a hit. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9-inch square baking dish. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of pitted cherries, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and a pinch of salt. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt. Cut in 6 tablespoons of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the mixture over the cherries. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cherry Crisp Recipe

This simple crisp is perfect for a summer dessert. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9-inch square baking dish. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of pitted cherries, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and a pinch of salt. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and a pinch of salt. Cut in 6 tablespoons of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the mixture over the cherries. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cherry Jam Recipe

This homemade jam is sure to please. In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of pitted cherries, 3/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour the mixture into sterilized jars and seal. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Allow to cool before serving.

Chocolate-Covered Cherry Recipe

These decadent treats are sure to be a hit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan, melt 12 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips over low heat, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly. Dip 24 pitted cherries in the melted chocolate, using a fork to help lift them out. Place on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate is set. Enjoy!

Cherry Muffin Recipe

These muffins are a delicious way to start the day. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Fold in 1 cup of pitted cherries. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cherry Salsa Recipe

This salsa adds a unique twist to tacos, nachos and more. In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of diced pitted cherries, 1/2 cup of chopped red onion, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro, the juice of 1 lime and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos or grilled fish.

Cherry Smoothie Recipe

This smoothie is a refreshing way to get your daily dose of fruit. In a blender, combine 1 cup of pitted cherries, 1/2 cup of plain yogurt, 1/4 cup of orange juice, 1/4 cup of honey and a few ice cubes. Blend until smooth. Serve chilled.

Cherry Popcorn Recipe

This popcorn is a fun snack for movie nights. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix together 8 cups of popped popcorn, 1/2 cup of sliced almonds, 1/4 cup of butter and 1/4 cup of honey. Spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Let cool completely. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of dried cherries, 1/4 cup of melted white chocolate chips and a pinch of salt. Drizzle the mixture over the popcorn and stir to combine. Enjoy!

Frozen Cherry Treat Recipe

This frozen treat is perfect for hot summer days. In a blender, combine 2 cups of pitted cherries, 1/2 cup of plain yogurt, 1/4 cup of honey and a few ice cubes. Blend until smooth. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze until solid. Enjoy!

Health Benefits of Eating Cherries

In addition to being delicious, cherries are packed with nutrients. They are high in fiber, vitamins C and A, and potassium. Eating cherries has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including:

Antioxidant Properties

Cherries are high in antioxidants, which have been linked to a lower risk of certain diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants also help to reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.

Pain Relief

Eating cherries has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis. Studies have also found that consuming cherries can reduce muscle damage after exercise.

Improved Sleep Quality

Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, which helps regulate your body’s sleep cycle. Eating cherries can help promote better sleep, especially when consumed in the evening.

Lower Risk of Heart Disease

Studies have found that eating cherries can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, both of which are key risk factors for heart disease.

Best Ways to Enjoy Fresh Cherries

Fresh cherries are a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are a few ideas:

Eat Them Out of Hand

Nothing beats the taste of a freshly picked cherry. Simply wash and pit the cherries and enjoy them as is.

Add Them to Salads

Fresh cherries add a sweet flavor and vibrant color to salads. Try adding them to spinach, kale or arugula salads for a tasty and nutritious meal.

Use Them As a Topping

Cherries make a delicious topping for oatmeal, ice cream, yogurt and more. They are also a great addition to pancakes and waffles.

Add Them to Desserts

Cherries are a great way to add flavor to desserts. Try adding them to cakes, pies, cobblers, crisps and other baked goods.

How to Pit a Cherry Quickly and Easily

Pitting cherries can be tedious and time-consuming, but there are a few tricks that can make the process easier. Here are three options:

Using a Cherry Pitter Tool

A cherry pitter tool is specifically designed to quickly and easily remove the pits from cherries. Simply place the cherry in the tool and press down to remove the pit. Be sure to wear protective eyewear when using this tool.

Using a Knife

Using a knife is another option for removing the pits from cherries. Cut the cherry in half around the circumference of the pit, then carefully remove the pit with the tip of the knife. Be sure to wear protective eyewear when using this method.

Using a Straw

This trick is surprisingly effective. Place the cherry on a cutting board and insert a straw into the top of the cherry. Push the straw through the cherry until it comes out the other side. The pit will remain inside the straw, while the cherry remains intact.

Conclusion

Cherries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways. When selecting and storing cherries, look for ones that are plump, firm and deep red in color. This article provided 10 delicious cherry recipes, as well as information on the health benefits of eating cherries and the best ways to enjoy them fresh. Finally, we discussed how to quickly and easily pit cherries using a few different methods.

Whether you prefer to eat them fresh or cooked, cherries are a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your diet. Experiment with different recipes and find the ones that work best for you. Enjoy!