How to dehydrate maraschino cherries? That’s a question I get all the time from friends and family. You’ve got a jar of these ruby red gems, but they’re swimming in sugar syrup and can’t last forever. Dehydrating them is the answer—it’s like turning them into tiny flavor bombs. Sweet as candy but built to last in your pantry. Think of it as sealing up a piece of summer in a jar, ready whenever you need it. Whether you’re a snacker, baker, or trail mix lover, dehydrated cherries are game changers. Stick around, and I’ll walk you through every juicy step.
Key Points:
Preparing Fresh Cherries: Start with thoroughly washing and drying cherries, then pit them using a cherry pitter or alternative tool if they are not already prepped from a jar.
Necessary Tools: Use a cherry pitter, tea towel, and either a food dehydrator or oven for dehydrating the cherries efficiently.
Dehydrating Process: Lay pitted cherries on dehydrator trays or a parchment-lined baking sheet, then dry them at 135°F for 12-36 hours or in the oven at the lowest temperature, flipping halfway.
Storage Tips for Dried Cherries: Cool dried cherries before storing in airtight containers in a cool, dark place, and condition them to avoid moisture, ensuring a shelf life of up to a year.
Uses and Benefits of Dried Cherries: Dried cherries are versatile for snacking, baking, adding to recipes, or creating trail mixes, offering a long-lasting, flavorful fruit option year-round.
Got a cherry pitter? Pit the cherries to get that pesky seed out of the middle. No cherry pitter? A sturdy straw or paper clip can work. Just don’t skip this step unless you’re dehydrating whole cherries.
Now, if you’re using maraschino cherries straight from the jar, you’re already ahead. They’re prepped and pitted, but give them a quick rinse to get rid of the extra syrup. Then dry them with a towel.
Lay your pitted cherries on dehydrator trays in a single layer. Think of them like a crowd at a concert—no overlapping! Overlapping will make them dry unevenly.
Set your machine to 135°F (or 57°C). This temp keeps the sweetness locked in.
Dry for 12-36 hours, depending on the size of your cherries. Yes, this is a lot of time, but patience packs in that rich, chewy texture.
Rotate trays every few hours to guarantee an even dry.
You’ll know they’re ready when the cherries feel leathery but not sticky.
Using the Oven Instead of a Dehydrator
No dehydrator? No sweat. Your oven’s got you.
Preheat the oven to its lowest temp—usually around 170°F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and place the cherries skin side down, cut side up.
Crack the oven door slightly open with a wooden spoon. This lets the moisture escape.
Bake for 6-10 hours, checking them every now and then. Flip them halfway through for even drying.
The drying time will vary depending on how juicy or large the cherries are.
Test one by breaking it in half—it should look dry all the way through, like a tiny leather jacket.
Storage Tips for Dried Cherries
When your cherries are fully dry, the next step is to store them properly. No one wants all that effort wasted.
Here’s the deal:
Cool them first. Warm dried cherries in a container can create condensation, which leads to mold.
Store in an airtight container like a mason jar, vacuum-sealed bag, or even a repurposed jar with a strong lid.
Toss them in your pantry, fridge, or even freezer for long-term storage.
Always condition cherries before storage. Add them to a jar and shake it once a day for a week. If you see moisture inside, pop them back into the dehydrator for another hour or two.
Properly stored, dried cherries can last up to a year or more. They’re shelf-stable, which means they’ll be there long after fresher snacks have fizzled out.
Rehydrating Dried Cherries
Need those cherries plump again for baking or snacking? Easy work.
Get creative! Combine with other dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a custom mix.
Why Dehydrating Cherries Is Worth It
Dehydrating cherries isn’t just a technique—it’s a preservation method that lets you enjoy your favorite fruits year-round. It’s simple, but the rewards are endless. You start with fresh cherries and end with a shelf-stable snack that’s loaded with flavor.
The next time you wonder how to dehydrate maraschino cherries, remember, it’s just a few steps between you and some mouthwatering dried cherries. From baking to snacking to adding them into your morning oatmeal, these gems will elevate any pantry lineup.
Now grab a jar, fill it up, seal that cherry goodness, and watch your pantry smile back at you.
FAQ’s
How can I rehydrate dried cherries for use in recipes?
To rehydrate dried cherries, soak them in water or juice overnight, or simmer them gently over low heat. This will make them soft enough to use in baking, salads, or as a snack.
What are some storage tips for dried cherries?
Allow the dried cherries to cool completely before storing them in airtight containers like mason jars or vacuum-sealed bags, in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, they can last up to a year or more.
How long and at what temperature should cherries be dried?
Cherries should be dried at 135°F (57°C) in a food dehydrator for 12 to 36 hours, or in an oven set to the lowest temperature (around 170°F) for 6 to 10 hours, checking and flipping them halfway through.
What equipment do I need to dehydrate cherries?
You will need a cherry pitter, a tea towel for drying, and either a food dehydrator with trays or a baking sheet and parchment paper if using an oven.
How do I prepare fresh cherries for dehydration?
To prepare fresh cherries for dehydration, wash them thoroughly under cool water, pat them dry with a tea towel, and pit them using a cherry pitter or a similar tool. If you’re using maraschino cherries from a jar, rinse off the syrup and dry them before dehydrating.
DannyContent Writer
Hey there, since 2016, my mission has been to provide you with the information and guides you need to make food dehydrating simple and fun. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, my site offers helpful guides, reviews, and recipes to enhance your dehydrating experience. I take pride in only recommending products I believe in, ensuring my readers' trust. As an affiliate of various programs, including Amazon Associates, your support helps me continue providing quality content. Thanks for stopping by, and happy dehydrating!
