Can you get cherries year round? If you’re looking for fresh cherries outside of the cherry season, don’t worry!
In this blog post, we will discuss where to find cherries year-round and how to store them, so they stay fresh.
Keep reading!
Cherries are available in several forms throughout the year at most grocery stores; therefore, they are considered to be in season constantly.
Can You Get Cherries Year Round?
Cherries are available at all times in grocery shops throughout the year.
During the harvest season in cherry-growing countries, fresh cherries are harvested and processed into other forms that may be enjoyed at any time of the year.
These forms include dried cherries, frozen cherries, cherry juice, cherry concentrate, and canned cherries.
This is because cherries have a short shelf life and deteriorate quickly.
However, the quality of these varieties cannot be compared to that of fresh cherries due to significant differences.
The following are some of the types of cherry that are available all year:
1. Frozen Cherries
You have the option of purchasing frozen cherries.
Frozen cherries are often available at much lower prices than their fresh counterparts and may be found at most grocery stores.
In addition, whole cherries may be frozen, defrosted, and used in various baked goods such as pies, cobblers, and other sweet treats.
Note: If they are kept in a freezer bag that contains as little air as possible, frozen cherries have a shelf life of up to one year.
2. Dried Cherries
Dried cherries are another option for those looking for cherries out of season.
Dried cherries can be found in most grocery stores’ bulk sections and ordered online.
Dried cherries have a long shelf life and can be used in various recipes, such as cookies, cakes, bread, and trail mix.
3. Canned Cherries
Canned cherries are also an option for those looking for cherries out of season.
Canned cherries can be found in the canned fruit section of most grocery stores and are typically available at a lower price than fresh or frozen cherries.
While canned cherries may not be as fresh as their counterparts, they can still be used in various recipes.
4. Cherry Juice and Concentrate.
Cherry juice is also an option for those looking for cherries out of season.
Cherry juice and concentrate can be found in the canned fruit section of most grocery stores and are typically available at a lower price than fresh or frozen cherries.
While cherry juice and concentrate may not be as fresh as their counterparts, they can still be used in various recipes.
Where To Buy Cherries Out of Season?
Farmers markets and online sites like Amazon and FreshDirect are great places to get fresh cherries out of season.
Depending on the season and place, many sorts of fresh cherries are available.
For instance:
Richmond cherries are red tart cherries. They are available from mid-May through mid-June, they’re popular in pies and preserves.
Bing cherries are only available during certain months due to their location.
Some are open from late May to mid-June, mid-June to late July, mid-June to early July, and end-June to mid-July.
Lambert cherries are North American red berries. Are available from mid-May through mid-June.
Lambert cherry trees have fewer demands and perform better in more circumstances than other kinds.
Chelan Fresh cherry: varieties are available late spring through summer.
Tips for Purchasing Cherries
If you’re looking for the perfect cherry, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
- Cherries should be plump and firm.
- The stem should still be attached to the cherry.
- Look for cherries that are brightly colored – this is an indication of freshness.
- Give the cherry a gentle squeeze – if it’s too soft, it’s overripe.
- Take a sniff of the cherry – it should smell sweet and fragrant.
How to Make Cherries Last Year Round
One of the best ways to enjoy cherries year-round is to preserve them.
You can do this by freezing, canning, or drying your cherries. Here are some tips on how to make each method work best:
Do Not Wash The Cherries:
Molds and spoilage bacteria love moisture. As a result, you shouldn’t wash the cherries if you aren’t going to consume them immediately.
Simply put them in a dry, cool location. If you decide to wash the cherries before freezing or storing them, be sure to dry them well.
Remove Bad Cherries Beforehand:
Bad cherries can ruin an entire batch of preserved cherries. So, removing them before you start the preservation process is important.
The best way to do this is to gently rinse the cherries and then let them dry on a clean towel.
Once they’re dry, inspect each one and remove any that are bruised, mushy, or have any other blemishes.
Cool The Cherries Quickly After Blanching:
Blanching involves quickly boiling the cherries to eliminate any microorganisms that may be present.
After being blanched, the cherries need to be cooled down as rapidly as possible, so they do not continue to cook.
Tip: Putting them in a basin that contains cold water is the most effective technique to accomplish this task.
Dry The Cherries:
If you plan on drying cherries, it is essential to check that they have lost all of their moisture before putting them away for later use.
In such cases, they risk developing mold or becoming bad.
The cherries should be spread out on a clean towel and allowed to air-dry since this is the most effective method for drying them.
In addition, you may use a dehydrator if you have access to one.
Can The Cherries:
Canned cherries will last the longest out of all the preservation methods. But, they do require a bit more work.
- Start by sterilizing your jars and lids.
- Then, blanch the cherries and pack them into the jars.
- Leave about ½ an inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
- Next, add sugar syrup (optional) and then seal the jars.
- Finally, process the jars in a water canner for about 25 minutes.
Refrigerate:
If you plan to eat the cherries within a week, you can store them in the refrigerator.
Just place them in a clean, airtight container, which should last for about a week.
Freeze:
Cherries may be preserved with the least amount of effort if they are frozen. Simply put them in a jar that is completely sealed and clean.
Since this will help prevent the cherries from drying out or suffering freezer burn, they should be good for many months after being stored.
If you want to make them last even longer, you may freeze them with sugar or syrup before putting them in the freezer.
What are the Health Benefits of Cherries?
Cherries are not only delicious, but they also offer a host of health benefits.
Here are some of the ways cherries can improve your health:
- Cherries contain antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage.
- They may also help reduce inflammation and pain associated with conditions like arthritis.
- Cherries are a good source of fiber, which can promote digestive health.
- They also contain potassium, which is necessary for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
- Eating cherries has been linked to lower heart disease and stroke risk.
FAQs About If Can You Get Cherries Year Round.
Do you have any other questions about can you get cherries all year round?
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about cherries.
When is the Best Month to Purchase Cherries?
May through August, Bing and Rainier cherries are available.
Sour cherries have a shorter growing season and are only accessible for a week or two, in June in warmer places and July and August in colder ones.
Can You Eat Sour Cherries Raw?
Sour cherries must be cooked, whereas sweet cherries may be eaten raw.
You must heat dried sour cherries unless they’re presweetened. Sour cherries retain their flavor when cooked, unlike sweet cherries.
Is It Possible to Acquire Cherries in December?
Due to a variety of product forms, tart cherries are always in season.
In addition to its sour-sweet flavor and vivid red color, Montmorency tart cherries may have health advantages.
Final Verdict.
So, can you get cherries year round? The answer is yes and no.
While some varieties of cherries can be grown in warm climates and harvested year-round, most cherry growers are located in cooler regions where the trees require a period of dormancy.
Fresh cherries are typically only available from late spring through early fall.
However, most grocery stores can find frozen or dried cherries year-round.
So, if you’re craving fresh cherries in the middle of winter, your best bet is to head to the freezer aisle!
Thanks for reading!