When your cherries arrive

Refrigerate right away. Cherries are highly perishable at room temperature — cold storage keeps them fresh for 5–7 days.

Don't wash them yet. Moisture speeds up spoilage. Store cherries unwashed and rinse only what you're about to eat.

Let them breathe. Keep cherries in a breathable bag or open container — airtight containers trap moisture.

Keep the stems on. Cherries with stems intact stay firm and fresh noticeably longer.

Sort as you store. Remove any soft or split cherries — one spoiling cherry can affect its neighbours.

Freezing for year-round enjoyment

Cherry season is short, but frozen cherries keep for up to 12 months:

1. Wash and dry the cherries thoroughly.

2. Remove stems, and pit them if you like (easier to use later).

3. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.

4. Transfer to freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.

Frozen cherries are perfect for smoothies, pies, jams, and sauces.

Serving & spotting peak freshness

Serve at room temperature. Take cherries out of the fridge 20–30 minutes before serving — flavour and aroma are at their fullest when they're not ice-cold.

Rinse gently under cool water just before serving.

Look for firm, glossy cherries with deep red colour and green, flexible stems. A wrinkled skin or browning stem means it's time to bake or blend!