How to Make Cherry Juice from Fresh or Frozen Cherries (Easy Homemade Method)
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Updated: June, 2026
Author: Andy LaPointe - Co-Founder of Traverse Bay Farms
Quick Summary
Learn two easy ways to make cherry juice at home using fresh or frozen cherries: stovetop simmering for everyday use and steam juicer extraction for larger batches. This guide covers the best cherry varieties, step-by-step instructions, flavor tips, storage guidance, and recipe ideas.
At-a-Glance
- Methods covered: Stovetop simmering and steam juicer extraction
- Best cherry variety: Montmorency tart cherries for richest color and flavor
- Fresh or frozen: Both work equally well
- Storage: Refrigerator up to 7 days, freezer up to 3 months, canned up to 1 year
- Quicker option: How to Make Cherry Juice from Concentrate: The Simple 7:1 Mixing Guide
What You Need
Three Basic Ingredients
- Fresh or frozen cherries (tart or sweet)
- Water
- Optional: sugar, honey, maple syrup, lemon juice, or cinnamon
Montmorency tart cherries, often grown in Northern Michigan, create the boldest color and flavor. Get fresh Michigan cherries shipped to your door (Summer harvest season only).
Method 1: Stovetop Simmering
This is the most accessible approach and works whether you are using fresh or frozen cherries.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or Michigan frozen cherries
- ½–1 cup water (frozen cherries need less water)
- Optional: sweetener of choice
1
Prepare the cherries. Remove stems and pits. If using frozen cherries, they can be used directly from the bag.
2
Add cherries and water to a saucepan. Use enough water to prevent scorching, usually ½ cup for frozen and 1 cup for fresh.
3
Bring to a simmer. Heat over medium until the cherries begin to soften and release their juice.
4
Cook 20–30 minutes. Stir occasionally. The cherries will break down and create a deep red liquid.
5
Strain the mixture. Pour through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, pressing gently to extract juice.
6
Optional: Reduce for stronger flavor. Simmer the strained juice 10–15 minutes to concentrate the flavor.
7
Sweeten if desired. Add sugar, honey, or maple syrup to taste.
8
Cool and store. Refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Method 2: Steam Juicer (Best for Large Batches or Canning)
A steam juicer offers a nearly hands-free way to make large quantities of cherry juice.
1
Fill the bottom pot with water. Bring the water to a steady simmer.
2
Place washed cherries in the top basket. Stems and pits can stay, steam opens the fruit easily.
3
Allow cherries to steam 45–60 minutes. The juice collects in the center reservoir.
4
Drain juice into sterilized jars. Use the built-in hose to fill jars directly.
5
Optional: Water bath canning. Process filled jars 10–15 minutes for shelf-stable juice.
How to Adjust Flavor
Flavor Customization Tips
- For sweetness: Add sugar, honey, agave, or maple syrup.
- For brightness: Add a splash of lemon juice.
- For warmth: Add cinnamon or ginger during simmering.
- For deeper color: Reduce the juice 10–20 minutes on the stove.
How to Store Homemade Cherry Juice
Storage Guide
- Refrigerator: Up to 7 days
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (leave headspace in containers)
- Canned (steam juicer method): Up to 1 year
Ways to Use Fresh Cherry Juice
Recipe Ideas
- Smoothies and protein shakes
- Mocktails and spritzers
- Swirled into oatmeal or yogurt
- Popsicles and homemade lemonade
- Baking glazes or marinades
- Download the free Michigan Cherry Recipe Book for more ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why People Trust Traverse Bay Farms
- Recognized with 38+ National Awards for Flavor Excellence
- Family-Owned, Community-Focused Company in Northern Michigan
- Sourcing Michigan-Grown Fruit Whenever Possible
- The Only Brand with a Sediment-Free Cherry Juice Guarantee
Prefer a Faster Option? Try Our Concentrate.
Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate is made from Michigan-grown Montmorency tart cherries with our industry-first sediment-free guarantee. Mix 1 oz with 7 oz water for a perfect glass in seconds.
Shop Cherry Juice Concentrate