Rainier Cherries Delivery or Pickup

Rainier cherries are selectively bred from a cross between Van and Bing cherries. Harold Fogle developed the Rainier cherry at Washington State University in 1952. They are named after Mountain Rainier in Washington, which is fitting given their large size. Rainier cherries are so beloved that July 11th is National Rainier Cherry Day. Rainier cherries have a very short season, less than two months each summer. July is the peak harvest time for Washington growers.

These cherries are considered a premier variety and have thin skin. Some people mistakenly think Rainier cherries are unripe cherries because they have some yellow flesh, but that is part of their signature color. The Rainier cherry has quite a sweet flavor, almost like a dessert. This candy-like sweetness comes from its higher Brix content, which means it contains more dissolved sugar.

Because these cherries are so sweet, they are great for desserts. You can use them in danishes, cheesecake toppings, compotes, cobblers, tarts, and more. You can even use them in ice cream or go simple and hand-dip them in chocolate for an easy yet decadent dessert. 

Achieving this sweetness is not easy. Cherries can be challenging to grow anyway, but Rainier cherries are even more difficult. The challenge with Rainier cherries is due in part to their delicate, thin skin that can bruise very easily. Weather fluctuations affect Rainier cherries more than some other varieties, and there is also the usual risk of birds. Growers must take extra precautions to keep Rainier cherries safe, including using windscreens and nets to keep birds out. Other techniques include reflective tape on tree branches and nest boxes. 

Rainier cherries have both a yellowish and red hue. Look for cherries that have a robust color profile and aren't dull. A Rainier cherry that is entirely yellow is likely not fully ripe yet. There should be some red on the cherry, indicating it is more likely to be ripe. Look for Rainier cherries that are shiny and lack any mold. Rainier cherries are plump and firm when ripe. Avoid ones that feel squishy or have wrinkles or soft spots. Those are indicators that the cherries are overripe.

Be aware that it is normal for Rainier cherries to have some brownish spots. As long as the spot is not odd-looking or torn, it's fine. Rainier cherries are susceptible to brown spots because they have higher sugar content compared to other cherries. 

Measuring fruit can be challenging, as no two fruits are the same size. In general, Rainier cherries are larger than many other types, but most recipes will call for the same amount. The general rule is that one cup is around 21 fresh cherries. Unless the recipe specifically calls for a particular number of Rainier cherries, you can usually go with the same amount.

Whether you need Rainier cherries for a dessert you're making, or you want some fresh cherries for snacking on at home, it's easy to get exactly what you need by placing an order on the Instacart app. Your Instacart shopper will put your order together, and you could have fresh Rainier cherries at your door in as little as 2 hours!