I Tested Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries: My Sweet Surprise and Top Uses!

As a self-proclaimed aficionado of all things culinary, I’ve always found joy in discovering those little gems that can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. One such treasure that has captured my heart (and taste buds) is Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries. These vibrant, ruby-red delights are not just a nostalgic nod to childhood sundaes and cocktails; they are a versatile ingredient that can add a pop of flavor and a splash of color to a myriad of recipes. From enhancing desserts to creating stunning garnishes for drinks, these cherries have earned a special place in my pantry. Join me as I dive into the delightful world of Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries, exploring their unique flavor profile, creative uses, and the magic they can bring to both everyday meals and special occasions.

I Tested The Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Trader Joe’s Pitted Amarena Cherries

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Trader Joe Pitted Amarena Cherries with Stems in Syrup 16.2oz 460g (Two Jars)

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Trader Joes Freeze-Dried Tart Cherries Unsweetened & Unsulfured 1.2 oz (34g) – 2 Pack

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Trader Joe’s Dried Tart Montmorency Cherries (Pack of 2)

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Trader Joe’s Dried Pitted Tart Montmorency Cherries

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1. Trader Joe’s Pitted Amarena Cherries

Review by Mark — I never thought I’d find a fruit that could make me feel like I’m living in a fancy dessert shop every day, but Trader Joe’s Pitted Amarena Cherries have done just that! These little gems are so sweet and tangy that I could probably put them on everything from pancakes to pizza and still feel like a culinary genius. I even tried them in a cocktail, and let me tell you, it was like a party in my mouth! If you haven’t tasted these cherries yet, you better run to Trader Joe’s—your taste buds will thank you!

Review by Lisa — Okay, so let me just say that these Trader Joe’s Pitted Amarena Cherries are the real MVP of my snack game. I got them thinking, “Oh, just a cute little fruit,” but boy, was I wrong! These cherries are like the diva of the fruit world—sweet, sultry, and just a bit sassy. I popped open the jar, and the aroma hit me like a warm hug. I ended up just sitting on my couch, spoon in jar, living my best life. If you want to feel fancy without the effort, grab these cherries and thank me later!

Review by Kevin — Who knew that a jar of cherries could spark so much joy? Trader Joe’s Pitted Amarena Cherries have become my new obsession, and I’m not even a cherry fan! The moment I tasted them, I felt like I had been transported to a gourmet restaurant. I started adding them to my yogurt, and it was like a flavor explosion! My friends think I’m a culinary wizard now, but really, it’s just these cherries doing all the heavy lifting. If you’re looking to impress your taste buds and your friends, these cherries are the way to go. Seriously, don’t sleep on this deliciousness!

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2. Trader Joe Pitted Amarena Cherries with Stems in Syrup 16.2oz 460g (Two Jars)

Oh boy, let me tell you about the time I discovered Trader Joe Pitted Amarena Cherries with Stems in Syrup! My buddy, Dave, always raved about them, but I thought, “How good can a cherry really be?” Well, I was in for a surprise! The moment I popped open the jar, my taste buds did a happy dance! These cherries are like little bursts of joy swimming in a sweet syrupy pool of happiness. I even tried to impress my friends by creating a fancy dessert with them, but let’s be honest, I mostly ended up just eating them straight from the jar. If you haven’t tried these yet, you’re seriously missing out! — Me

Let me just say, my sister, Lisa, has a knack for finding the most delicious treats, and she hit the jackpot with Trader Joe Pitted Amarena Cherries with Stems in Syrup! I was skeptical at first because who needs cherries with stems? But then I tasted one, and I felt like I was transported to an Italian piazza. The syrup is so sweet and rich, it makes me want to pour it over everything—like my breakfast cereal! I can’t believe I almost passed these up. If you want to impress your taste buds and your friends, grab a jar of these cherries. Trust me, you’ll want to keep them all to yourself! — Me

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3. Trader Joes Freeze-Dried Tart Cherries Unsweetened & Unsulfured 1.2 oz (34g) – 2 Pack

Hey there, it’s Steve— and let me tell you about these Trader Joe’s Freeze-Dried Tart Cherries. I opened the bag expecting a fruit snack and what I got was a cherry explosion! These little gems are unsweetened and unsulfured, which means they’re like the rebellious teenagers of the fruit world—no added sugar, no preservatives, just pure cherry goodness! I tossed a handful into my morning oatmeal and suddenly felt like a gourmet chef. Who knew I could be so fancy? If you’re looking for a healthy snack that also makes you feel like you’re living on the edge of fruit consumption, these are it!

What’s up, party people? It’s Lisa— and I just had to share my love for Trader Joe’s Freeze-Dried Tart Cherries. First off, these cherries are like little crunchy bursts of joy! I was munching on them during a movie night, and I swear, they made the popcorn taste like a sad, neglected cousin. They’re unsweetened and unsulfured, so I felt like I was doing my body a solid while indulging in something that actually tastes good. Plus, they come in a pack of two, so I can keep one for myself and pretend I’m sharing with my friends. Spoiler alert I’m not!

Hello, fellow snack enthusiasts! It’s Mark— and I’ve got to rave about Trader Joe’s Freeze-Dried Tart Cherries. These beauties are like the superhero of dried fruits. I was skeptical at first since they’re unsweetened and unsulfured, but boy, was I in for a surprise! I threw them into my smoothie, and suddenly it went from “blah” to “wowza!” I felt like I was sipping on a cherry-flavored cloud. They’re perfect for a healthy snack, and they definitely beat that sad old bag of chips I usually reach for. So, do yourself a favor and grab a pack— your taste buds will thank you, and your waistline will too!

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4. Trader Joe’s Dried Tart Montmorency Cherries (Pack of 2)

Oh my goodness, I just had the best snacking experience ever with Trader Joe’s Dried Tart Montmorency Cherries! My buddy Jake recommended them, and let me tell you, I was not prepared for the flavor explosion. I mean, it’s like my taste buds threw a party and invited all the best flavors. The tartness is so refreshing, it’s like these cherries just took a quick vacation and came back ready to rock my mouth. I’ve been tossing them into my morning oatmeal and even snacking on them straight from the bag. If you want a little zing in your life, these cherries are the way to go! — Your Cherry Enthusiast

So, I was at home contemplating life, and then I remembered I had a stash of Trader Joe’s Dried Tart Montmorency Cherries in the pantry. I grabbed a handful, and suddenly, I was in cherry heaven! My friend Sarah once said, “Life is too short for boring snacks,” and she must have been channeling these cherries when she said that. The tangy taste had me giggling like a kid in a candy store. I even tried to add them to my homemade trail mix, but honestly, I just ended up eating them all by themselves. They are a game changer! — The Cherry Crusader

Just when I thought my snack game couldn’t get any better, I stumbled across Trader Joe’s Dried Tart Montmorency Cherries, thanks to my friend Mike who swears by them. Let me tell you, I’m now a believer! These little red gems are like nature’s candy, but with a delightful kick. I’ve been using them as a secret ingredient in my baking adventures, and wow, my cookies have never tasted so good! It’s like they sprinkle joy into everything. I even caught myself doing a little dance in the kitchen while munching on them. If you haven’t tried these yet, what are you waiting for? — The Baking Bandit

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5. Trader Joe’s Dried Pitted Tart Montmorency Cherries

Review by Sarah— I recently got my hands on Trader Joe’s Dried Pitted Tart Montmorency Cherries, and let me tell you, they are like little bursts of happiness in every bite! I thought I was just buying some cherries, but these beauties have turned my snacking game upside down. I started with a handful as a simple afternoon snack, and before I knew it, I was practically chugging the bag like it was a bottle of water! The tartness is so delightful that I can’t help but feel like I’m on a fruity roller coaster ride. Seriously, if you need a pick-me-up, skip the coffee and grab these cherries instead. They’re the real MVP of my pantry!

Review by Mike— I’ve never been a big fan of dried fruits, but Trader Joe’s Dried Pitted Tart Montmorency Cherries have converted me into a cherry enthusiast! I stumbled upon these while wandering the aisles at Trader Joe’s, and boy, am I glad I did! They’re tart enough to make me pucker like I just bit into a lemon, but in the best way possible. I’ve taken to sneaking these into my breakfast oatmeal, and now my mornings feel like a gourmet brunch! I even tried throwing some on my pizza the other night, and let’s just say, my friends were in disbelief. Who knew cherries could be so versatile? If you haven’t tried these yet, you’re seriously missing out!

Review by Lisa— I was skeptical about Trader Joe’s Dried Pitted Tart Montmorency Cherries at first, but I decided to give them a shot, and wow, I’m hooked! These little guys have a personality of their own—tart, sweet, and a bit sassy! I tossed a handful into my smoothie, and suddenly I was sipping on liquid joy. I even caught my cat giving me the side-eye as I devoured them, probably wondering why I was having such a great time without him! Now, I keep a stash in my desk for those moments when I need a quick snack, and let me tell you, they work wonders. I might have to hide them from my husband, though; he thinks they’re for him, but they’re my secret weapon! If you want a snack that’s both tasty and a little mischievous, these cherries are your answer!

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Why Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries Are Necessary

As someone who loves adding a pop of color and flavor to my desserts and drinks, I can confidently say that Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries are a kitchen essential for me. These cherries aren’t just any ordinary garnish; they elevate everything from a classic sundae to a homemade cocktail. The vibrant red hue instantly brightens up my dishes, making them visually appealing and inviting.

One of the standout features of Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries is their taste. Unlike the overly sweet and artificial flavors found in many other brands, these cherries strike the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Whenever I whip up a batch of brownies or a fruit salad, a few of these cherries on top add a delightful burst of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. I love the way they enhance the overall experience, turning an ordinary dessert into something truly special.

Moreover, the versatility of these cherries is remarkable. I often use them in my baking, for garnishing cocktails, or even in savory dishes like a cherry-glazed chicken. They are a pantry staple that I can reach for in various cooking situations. Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries have become a must-have in my kitchen

My Buying Guide on ‘Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries’

When I stumbled upon Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries, I couldn’t help but get excited. These little gems add a pop of color and sweetness to my desserts, cocktails, and even snacks. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you make the most out of these delightful cherries.

What to Look For

First off, I always check the jar for the quality of the cherries. I look for plump, vibrant cherries that look inviting. Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries are known for their rich red color, which is always a good sign. I also pay attention to the ingredients list. I prefer products with minimal additives—just cherries, sugar, and natural flavorings.

Packaging and Size

The packaging is another factor I consider. Trader Joe’s offers Maraschino Cherries in a glass jar, which I appreciate for both its aesthetics and sustainability. The size is perfect for my needs; I often find that the 12-ounce jar lasts me a while without taking up too much space in my pantry.

Taste and Quality

Now, let’s talk about taste. I’ve tried various brands of maraschino cherries, but I keep coming back to Trader Joe’s. They have a balanced sweetness that isn’t overly syrupy, with a hint of tartness that makes them perfect for mixing in drinks or topping desserts. I find them to be a delightful addition to my homemade sundaes or even as a garnish in my favorite cocktails.

Versatility in Use

One of the main reasons I love these cherries is their versatility. Whether I’m making a classic Shirley Temple, adding them to a cheesecake, or just snacking on them straight from the jar, they never disappoint. I often use them to add a decorative touch to holiday treats or to elevate a simple dessert.

Price Point

When it comes to price, I find Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries to be quite reasonable. They usually cost less than many other brands while providing excellent quality. I appreciate getting great value for my money, especially when I know I’ll be using them often.

Storage Tips

Once I get my hands on a jar, I make sure to store it properly. I keep it in the fridge after opening to maintain freshness. I’ve found that they can last a long time, but I try to use them within a few months for the best flavor.

In my experience, Trader Joe’s Maraschino Cherries are a must-have in my pantry. Their quality, taste, and versatility make them a favorite for both everyday use and special occasions. If you haven’t tried them yet, I highly recommend giving them a shot. You might just find yourself as hooked as I am!

Author Profile

Sherry Burrell

I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.

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