Cherry season is here, and if you’ve got a basket full of these delicious red gems, you probably want a quick and hassle-free way to remove the pits. Pitting cherries can be a bit messy and time-consuming, but with the right techniques, it doesn’t have to be! Whether you have a special tool or just everyday household items, here are four simple and effective methods to pit cherries fast — no stress involved.
1. Using a Cherry Pitter
If you often work with cherries, investing in a cherry pitter can be a game-changer. This handy gadget lets you simply insert a cherry, squeeze the handles, and out pops the pit in one swift motion. It’s especially convenient if you have a large batch to process. Not only does it save time, but it also keeps your hands cleaner and reduces juice stains.
You can find a great cherry pitters on Amazon: this stainless steel cherry pitter has excellent reviews, making it a handy kitchen gadget to have, especially if you deal with cherries often. Using a cherry pitter not only saves time but also keeps your hands clean and juice stains to a minimum.
2. With a Straw or a Thin Stick
No cherry pitter? No problem! You can use a rigid straw or a thin wooden skewer. Place the cherry stem-side down on the mouth of a bottle or a sturdy glass, then push the pit out by pressing firmly through the cherry with your straw or stick. The pit will drop neatly into the bottle, and you’ll be left with perfectly pitted cherries. This method is simple, effective, and requires no special tools.
3. Using a Fork or a Paperclip
For a clever DIY approach, grab a small fork or an unfolded paperclip. Insert one of the prongs or the tip into the cherry near the stem and gently lever the pit out. This method works well for those who want precision and control, especially when handling delicate cherries. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose items you already have at home.
4. Cutting the Cherries in Half
If you’re preparing cherries for jams, preserves, or desserts where the appearance isn’t critical, slicing the cherries in half is a classic method. Cut each cherry down the middle, twist the halves to separate them, and remove the pit with your fingers or a small knife. This method is straightforward and doubles as a prep step for cooking or baking.
Tips for Pitting and Handling Cherries
- Always choose cherries that are ripe but firm to make pitting easier.
- Wear an apron or old clothes — cherry juice stains are stubborn!
- Work over a cutting board or plate to catch any juice or pits.
How to Store Pitted Cherries
Once your cherries are pitted, it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh and delicious:
- Refrigerate promptly: Place the pitted cherries in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Stored this way, they can last 2–3 days in the fridge.
- Freeze for longer storage: Spread the pitted cherries on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cherries keep well for up to 6 months and are perfect for smoothies or baking.
- Use lemon juice: If you’re not planning to use the cherries immediately, toss them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
Bonus Recipe Ideas for Your Fresh Pitted Cherries
Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy your freshly pitted cherries:
- Cherry Pie or Tart: Classic and comforting, a cherry pie showcases the fruit’s natural sweetness. For example, the delicious Amalfi tart is made with amarena cherries, but you can also prepare it with classic fresh cherries if you prefer them!
- Cherry Smoothie: Blend cherries with yogurt, banana, and a splash of almond milk for a refreshing treat. This Banana Cherry smoothie is easy to make and so delicious!
- Cherry Salad: Toss cherries with mixed greens, goat cheese, and walnuts for a vibrant summer salad.
- Cherry Sauce: Simmer cherries with sugar and a splash of water to create a sauce that’s perfect over ice cream or pancakes.
- Overnight Oats: Stir pitted cherries into your morning oats for natural sweetness and color.
With these easy pitting techniques, smart storage tips, and tasty ideas, you’ll be all set to enjoy the best of cherry season without any hassle!
