Summer brings in a variety of seasonal fruits, and one of the most loved among them are juicy, plump cherries. It’s tempting to stock up on the freshest, sweetest batch, but have you ever been in a situation where you’ve ended up with too many fresh cherries? You’re not alone. It’s easy to go overboard on the shopping when you see these beautiful, bright red fruits, but the question remains – what can you do with them all?
The good news is that you don’t need to fret over the excess cherries. In fact, there are plenty of creative ways to put them to use. Whether you’re in the mood for some baking, want to indulge in some refreshing drinks, or crave a sweet and savory combination, we’ve got some ideas to help you make the most of your cherry haul. Read on to discover some exciting ways to enjoy cherries and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Delicious Recipes to Use Up Those Extra Cherries
If you find yourself with an abundance of fresh cherries and are wondering what to do with them all, fear not – there are countless delicious recipes that make perfect use of this sweet and juicy fruit. One classic recipe is cherry pie, which uses a combination of fresh cherries, sugar, and a flaky crust to create a mouth-watering dessert.
If pie isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other cherry-based recipes to explore. Cherry clafoutis is a popular French dessert that combines cherries with a custard-like batter, while cherry compote can be used as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes. You can also try making sour cherry jam, cherry salsa for a tangy twist, or even grilled cherry skewers for a savory dish. No matter what your taste preferences, there are plenty of delicious recipes to choose from that will help you make the most of your fresh cherries.
Safe and Effective Storage Methods for Fresh Cherries
Fresh cherries are a delicious summer fruit, but they have a short shelf life and can spoil quickly. It’s crucial to store them safely and effectively to extend their freshness, especially if you have too many cherries to consume at once. Here are some safe and effective storage methods for fresh cherries.
Firstly, always store your cherries unwashed in a clean, breathable container. A paper or mesh bag is preferable to a plastic one since it allows for better airflow. Before storing, inspect the cherries and remove any that are overripe or damaged. Keep the container in a cool location away from direct sunlight, such as in the fridge or a cool pantry. If you plan to store cherries for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Place washed and pitted cherries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour before transferring to an airtight container. Now that you know how to store your cherries safely, you can enjoy their sweet goodness for days to come.
Preserving Cherries: From Freezing to Canning
Preserving cherries is an excellent way to enjoy them for a more extended period. There are various methods to choose from, such as freezing, drying, and canning. Freezing cherries is the easiest and quickest method. To preserve cherries, wash and dry them first, then remove the stems and pits. You can freeze them whole, halved or pitted. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray and put them in the freezer. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a zipper bag. Frozen cherries can be used for smoothies, baking, and other recipes.
Canning cherries is another popular method for preserving them. It requires careful preparation and sterilization of jars, lids, and equipment, but it’s worth the effort. To can cherries, clean and pit them first, then add them to a syrup mixture made of sugar and water. Boil them for a few minutes, then transfer them to sterilized jars and process them in a water bath. Canned cherries can be stored for up to a year and can be used for pies, sauces, and other recipes. Whether you choose to freeze or can cherries, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the safe preservation of the fruit.
Cherry-Based Drinks: From Cocktails to Smoothies
Cherry-based drinks are a refreshing way to beat the summer heat while using up an abundance of cherries. Whether you prefer alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, there are a variety of options to choose from. For a refreshing cocktail, try a Cherry Margarita or a Cherry Gin Fizz. The sweetness of the cherries will balance well with the tartness of the lime or the botanical flavors of the gin. For a non-alcoholic option, a Cherry Lemonade or a Cherry Limeade are great choices. The twist of the cherries will add a fruity flavor to your classic lemonade or limeade.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try making a cherry smoothie. Cherry smoothies are perfect for breakfast or a mid-day snack. For a simple cherry smoothie, blend fresh cherries with yogurt, almond milk, and honey for sweetness. You can also add other fruits such as bananas or strawberries for added flavor. For a more indulgent treat, try a cherry chocolate smoothie. Blend cherries with cocoa powder, almond milk, and ice for a refreshing chocolatey treat. Adding cherries to your drinks is an easy and delicious way to use up your excess cherries and create a variety of refreshing drinks.
A Guide to Baking with Fresh Cherries
Baking with fresh cherries is a delightful way to use up excess fruits and create delicious treats. One of the most popular ways to use cherries in baking is by making pies, tarts, and cakes. For cherry pies, you can choose to either make a lattice or crumble top. Tarts can also be made with cherries and are perfect for snacking or a dessert to share with friends.
Cherry cakes are another favorite among bakers as they are extremely versatile. You could try a classic vanilla cake with cherries as a filling or a chocolate cherry cake for a richer flavor. You could also experiment with other ingredients such as almonds, lemon, or even mascarpone cheese to create a unique and delicious cherry cake. Whatever recipe you choose, baking with fresh cherries is bound to bring a smile to your face and your taste buds.
Surprising Health Benefits of Eating Cherries
Cherries are one of the healthiest and delicious fruits available during the summer season. Eating cherries provides several health benefits as they are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One of the most popular health benefits of cherries is their anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. They also contain melatonin, which can improve sleep quality and regulate the body’s internal clock.
Cherries are also rich in fiber, which makes them an excellent choice for digestion and weight management. They can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and regulate blood sugar levels. Moreover, cherries contain anthocyanins, which have been shown to improve brain function and reduce the risk of neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, including cherries in your diet can be a wonderful way to stay healthy, fit, and happy.
Creative Uses for Cherries: Beyond the Kitchen
Aside from using cherries in the kitchen, there are endless creative ways to make use of an abundance of cherries. One option is to make cherry pit heating pads by filling a small fabric bag with cherry pits and microwaving it for a few seconds. These heating pads can provide soothing warmth for sore muscles or can be used as hand warmers during the colder months.
Another creative use for cherries is to create homemade bath and body products. By mixing cherry extract or puree with coconut oil or shea butter, you can make moisturizing lotion bars or balms. Adding cherries to homemade soap can also give it a luxurious feel and scent. These DIY projects are not only fun and practical but can also make great gifts for friends and family.
The Conclusion
So, the next time you have a surplus of fresh cherries, don’t let them go to waste. There are plenty of creative ways to use them up and enjoy their natural sweetness.
Whether you choose to make cherry jam, pie, or freeze them for later, cherries are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new ingredients and flavor combinations to find the perfect use for your abundance of fresh cherries.