All About U-Pick Cherries at Draper Girls Country Farm

Cherry season is one of the most exciting times of year at Draper Girls Country Farm! Whether you're a first-time picker or a seasoned cherry enthusiast, there's nothing quite like wandering through our orchard and filling a bucket with these juicy, ruby-red gems. But there's more to cherry picking than meets the eye. Here's your guide to making the most out of U-Pick cherry season and all the delicious things you can do with your haul!

Pick 'Em Right When picking cherries, always try to leave the stems attached. Not only does this help the cherries last longer after you take them home, but it also protects the fruit and tree from damage, ensuring a healthy crop for next season. Gently pull the cherry with a slight twist, making sure the stem stays intact.

From Orchard to Kitchen Once you've picked your cherries, it's time to get creative! Eating them fresh is always a fan favorite (who can resist?), but cherries can be used in a variety of ways that make the most of their flavor and texture.

Pie Cherries vs. Sweet Cherries At Draper Girls, we grow both sweet and pie (tart) cherries. Sweet cherries like Bing and Rainier are perfect for snacking, adding to salads, or using in desserts that don't require much sugar. Pie cherries, like Montmorency, are tart and ideal for baking—think cherry pies, crisps, and jams. When baking with pie cherries, the tartness balances beautifully with sugar and heat.

Creative Ways to Use Cherries:

• Bake a pie or cobbler with fresh pie cherries.

• Preserve them by making cherry jam or jelly.

• Freeze them for smoothies or baking later.

• Infuse them into vinegar or liquor for a cherry kick.

• Dry them for snacking or adding to trail mix.

• Pair them with cheese and crackers for a summer charcuterie board.

Tips for Taking Cherries Home Bring a cooler with you to keep cherries fresh on the ride home, especially if it's a warm day. Once you're home, store them unwashed in the fridge in a breathable container. Wash them only before you're ready to eat or use them.

Cherry season doesn’t last long, and U-Pick is a great way to enjoy the freshest fruit while spending time with friends and family.

Follow us on Instagram or check our website for U-Pick cherry updates—the orchard is calling, and we can’t wait to see you!

Draper Girls