Wisconsin Cherry Season

Wisconsin, especially Door County, is known for its cherries that are abundant mid-summer for purchase at markets, roadside stands, and at U-Pick orchards.  The most common type of cherry grown in the state is the Montmorency cherry, a tart variety. Other tart varieties here are North Star and Sweet Cherry Pie.  While Wisconsin is not a major sweet cherry producer due to the climate, Lapins and Rainier sweet cherries can be successfully grown.  Cherries can be used for baked goods, sauces, marinades, jams, and salads, and so much more!

Storage

Store fresh cherries in the refrigerator.   To freeze them, wash and pit the cherries (optional, but recommended for best texture), then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags or containers removing as much air as possible.

Seasonality

Cherries are available in Wisconsin in July and August.  Sweet cherries are usually ready earlier than tart cherries.

Prep Tip

Struggling without a cherry pitter? Place a cherry on a washed, empty soda bottle and push the pit through with a chopstick for a makeshift pitter.

This content was originally created by our partners at Taste the Local Difference and has been adapted to highlight the distinct characteristics of Wisconsin’s local food system.