Can You Juice Cherries With The Pit? Safety & Best Methods
Juicing cherries with the pit is not recommended, as the pit can release cyanide when crushed and may affect the juice’s flavor and safety.
Juicing cherries with pits is not recommended. Cherry pits contain amygdalin, which converts to cyanide when crushed. While small amounts may not cause harm, it’s safer to remove pits before juicing. Pits can also damage your juicer’s blades or gears.
Why You Should Remove Cherry Pits Before Juicing
Cherry pits pose two main problems for juicing:
1. Toxicity Concerns
Cherry pits contain amygdalin, a compound that releases cyanide when metabolized. While you’d need to consume many crushed pits to experience poisoning, it’s better to avoid the risk entirely.
2. Equipment Damage
Hard pits can:
- Dull blender blades
- Jam centrifugal juicer mechanisms
- Damage masticating juicer gears
For cold press juicers, check our guide on the best affordable cold press juicers that handle soft fruits well.
How To Pit Cherries Without Special Tools
You don’t need a cherry pitter to remove pits. Try these methods:
Knife Method
- Wash cherries and remove stems
- Place cherry on cutting board
- Slice vertically around the pit
- Twist halves apart and remove pit
Bottle & Straw Technique
Place cherry over an empty bottle opening. Push a sturdy straw through the top to eject the pit into the bottle.
Paper Clip Hack
Bend a large paper clip into an S shape. Use the curved end to scoop out pits.
Best Juicing Methods For Pitted Cherries
Blender Method
For smoothies or thicker juices:
- Add pitted cherries to blender
- Blend until smooth
- Strain through fine mesh sieve
Need a powerful blender? See our picks for the best blenders for smoothies.
Steam Juicing
As shown in the Mossygoat Farm example, steam juicers can process unpitted cherries safely since pits remain intact. The steam extracts juice without crushing pits.
Cold Press Juicing
Masticating juicers work well for pitted cherries, preserving more nutrients than centrifugal models.
Alternative Uses For Cherry Pits
Don’t throw away those pits! Try these creative uses:
| Use | Method |
|---|---|
| Flavored Syrup | Simmer pits with sugar and water |
| Heating Pad | Dry pits and sew into fabric pouch |
| Infused Liquor | Steep pits in vodka or brandy |
According to Alpha Foodie, the residual fruit on pits can add flavor to syrups and infusions.
Health Benefits Of Cherry Juice
Properly prepared cherry juice offers:
- High antioxidant content
- Natural anti-inflammatory properties
- Melatonin for better sleep
- Potassium and vitamin C
As noted by Mossygoat Farm, tart cherry juice makes a refreshing summer drink with no added sugars needed.
