Cherries are one of those delightful summer fruits that many of us look forward to all year. They’re juicy, sweet, and perfect for snacking or adding to recipes. But what happens when you’ve bought too many cherries? Naturally, you might wonder, how long do cherries last in the fridge? The key to enjoying your cherries for as long as possible lies in how you store them. Let’s find how long cherries last when properly stored and the best practices to keep them fresh.
How Long Do Cherries Last in the Fridge?
The big question: how long do cherries last in the fridge? On average, fresh cherries will last about 5-7 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. This can vary based on the freshness of the cherries when purchased and how they are stored. If you’re wondering how long cherries last in the fridge beyond that, it’s possible for them to stay good for up to 10 days, but this requires ideal storage conditions.
The sooner you get those cherries into the fridge, the longer they’ll last. Freshness starts to decline if they’re left out too long, shortening how long cherries last in the fridge when finally stored.
How to Store Cherries in the Fridge
So, how can you make sure you’re maximizing how long cherries last in the fridge? Proper storage is key. Here’s what you should do:
- Keep Them Dry: Moisture speeds up spoilage. Make sure cherries are dry when placing them in the fridge. Avoid washing them until you’re ready to eat.
- Use an Airtight Container or Plastic Bag: Storing cherries in a container with good airflow helps maintain cherries last in the fridge. Keep them sealed but not too tightly so air can circulate.
- Refrigerate in the Coldest Part: Store cherries in the coldest part of your fridge (usually the back) to extend shelf life of cherries.
By following these tips, you can help cherries stay fresh for as long as possible.
Freezing Cherries to Make Them Last Longer
If you’re not sure you’ll eat your cherries within a week and you’re concerned about how long cherries last in the fridge, freezing them is an excellent option. Freezing can extend their shelf life to up to six months or even longer.
To freeze cherries:
- Wash and pit the cherries first.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet so they don’t clump together.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag.
Now you don’t have to worry about how long cherries last in the fridge—just pop them in the freezer and enjoy them for months!
How to Tell If Cherries Have Gone Bad
Sometimes cherries might go bad before you expect it. Even if you’ve been diligent about storing them, it’s important to recognize signs of spoilage to know how long cherries last in the fridge. Here’s what to watch for:
- Wrinkling or Softness: Fresh cherries should be firm. If they’ve become soft or wrinkly, they’re past their prime.
- Mold: Mold is a clear sign that your cherries are no longer good.
- Off-Smell: Spoiled cherries may start to smell sour or off.
If any of these signs appear, it’s time to discard them, even if they’re within the expected time for how long cherries last in the fridge.
How Long Do Cherries Last Outside the Fridge?
Leaving cherries out on the counter can drastically reduce how long cherries last. At room temperature, cherries will typically only last 1-2 days. This is why it’s always a good idea to refrigerate them as soon as you bring them home. By doing this, you ensure how long cherries last in the fridge is maximized to its full potential.
How Long Do Cherries Last After Washing?
Many people make the mistake of washing cherries before storing them, thinking it’s more convenient for later snacking. However, washing them ahead of time can actually reduce their shelf life. Moisture is cherries’ enemy when it comes to staying fresh, so it’s best to wash them right before you eat them. This will help you get the most out of how long cherries last in the fridge.
Conclusion: How Long Do Cherries Last in the Fridge?
In conclusion, how long do cherries last in the fridge? When stored properly, cherries can stay fresh for about 5-7 days, with a chance of lasting up to 10 days if they are fresh. Freezing is always a good backup plan if you want to extend their life even further. Remember, proper storage and keeping cherries dry are crucial to maximizing to store in the fridge. Enjoy your fresh, sweet cherries for as long as possible by following these simple tips!
