Cherries are one of my home state of Michigan’s greatest gifts to the world! Learn more here about cherry varieties, recipe ideas, history, and health benefits too.

When you come from Michigan, there is so much to say about cherries that you practically come to a halt thinking of where to begin. In Lebanese cuisine, cherries are known for their pits as mahleb, ground and used as a flavoring in baking (learn more about mahleb in my post about it; you can buy very fresh mahleb in my shop). But in Michigan summer, we’re focused on the fresh fruit flesh we can’t get enough of. Traverse City, which is about 90 miles southwest of where I am in Harbor Springs, is the cherry capital of the world. In other words, that the cherry you just ate in your yogurt or Shirley Temple probably came from Michigan. Cherries are so abundant here that they feed the country with 75 percent of its cherries. The first cherry tree was planted on the Old Mission Peninsula in Grand Traverse in 1852. There there cherries discovered their ultimate feeding ground: Lake breezes, cold winters, and sandy soil. 

The cherry stands crop up all over the place Up North, and you can be sure I’m eating a handful of sweet cherries every day when they do! Their color is mesmerizing and their flavor sweet and juicy. And if that isn’t enough, their health qualities can compete with the best of them. They are an antioxidant powerhouse, gaining them their status as a Super Fruit.

Types and Varieties of Cherries

Cherries belong to the genus Prunus and are classified mainly into sweet and sour (tart) varieties. The sweet varieties, such as Bing, are beloved for their deep red color, sweet flavor and juicy flesh. 

Sour cherries, or Prunus cerasus, include the popular Montmorency variety. These are commonly used in cooking and baking. Their tartness makes them ideal for cherry pie fillings and other wonderful desserts, drinks, and sauces.

Growing Regions and Cherry Season

The United States is a leading producer of cherries worldwide, with Michigan and Washington state at the forefront. Traverse City hosts the National Cherry Festival each summer, celebrating its status as the cherry capital of the world!! Washington State University researches and improves sweet cherry production.

Cherry season typically begins in early June with blossoms and lasts through the summer. These juicy gems thrive in the unique climate conditions offered by regions like our Michigan’s Lake breezes, which provide the perfect setting for cherry orchards.

Culinary Uses and Recipes

Cherries are incredibly versatile and can be used in all kinds of recipes. We love them fresh, straight from the market or grocery store, or integrated into sweet and savory dishes. 

1. Cherry Salad: Try my savory Cherry Salad, or vary it using dried cherries or fresh with spinach, goat cheese, and walnuts for a refreshing summer salad.
2. Cherry Pie or Cherry Galette: Use tart or sour varieties to make traditional cherry pie filling. A cherry pitter makes the process easier.
3. Cherry Sauce: Simmer sour or tarts with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to make a fabulous topping for ice cream or pancakes.
4. Cherry Smoothie: Make a yogurt smoothie: Blend them with banana, yogurt, and apple juice for a nutritious smoothie that can be a quick breakfast or post-workout snack.
5. Cherry Syrup: Cherry syrup, made by simmering tart cherry juice as the liquid in simple syrup, is a great addition to home bars and pantries. 

The Historical Context

Cherries have been cherished since ancient times. The Romans introduced cherry trees to Britain in the first century. The fruit’s popularity spread quickly across Europe. In America, they of course have a storied past, famously linked to George Washington and the legendary tale of the cherry tree. Young George may not have actually chopped down a cherry tree, but the story underscores the symbolic importance of cherries in American culture.

Fur traders played a significant role in spreading cherry cultivation across the United States as they traveled westward. They thrived in Michigan’s unique climate. Since then, they became an integral part of our region’s agricultural heritage.

Health Benefits of Cherries

Cherries are celebrated not only for their incredible taste and alluring red blush, but also for their numerous health benefits. These ruby-red treasures are packed with antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress. They can benefit heart health, potentially lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease. Tart cherry juice is particularly famous for its anti-inflammatory properties. This can provide relief from conditions like arthritis by possibly lowering uric acid levels.

They are a great source of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), an essential nutrient that strengthens the immune system and contributes to skin health. And, studies show they may improve cognitive functions and contribute to the overall well-being of older adults.

Tips for Choosing and Storing Cherries

To enjoy the highest quality cherries, consider these practical tips:

• Selection: Look for fruit that is firm, plump, and have a glossy texture. Darker red varities typically indicate a richer flavor. Wash thoroughly before using or eating. Always remove pits before adding the cherries to recipes.
• Storage: Store Cherries in a zip-top bag in the refrigerator or frozen for later use. Keep cherries refrigerated to maintain freshness. To extend their shelf life, carefully wash and dry the cherries, then place them in a zip-top bag in the freezer.
• Preparation: A cherry pitter can be a handy tool, especially when preparing recipes that require a significant amount of pitted cherries. Simply place the cherries in the pitter, press, and easily remove the pit.