How To Serve Cherries To Babies

How To Introduce and Serve Cherries - Starting Solids

Cherries are a nutritious fruit for babies, but they do carry a higher choking risk. Preparing them correctly is essential to keep your baby safe while eating.

Can babies eat cherries?

Yes. Babies can eat cherries from around 6 months once they are ready for solids but they must always be pitted and prepared appropriately before serving.

Is cherry an allergen?

No. Cherries are not a common allergen and allergic reactions are uncommon.

Is cherry a choking hazard for babies?

Yes. Cherries are a choking hazard due to their round shape and hard pit.

To reduce risk:

• Always remove the pit completely
• Serve as puree or finely minced for younger babies
• Cut into small pieces for older babies
• Never offer whole cherries to babies

Whole cherries should not be offered until at least 3 years of age, and only when a child has the skills to manage them safely.

How to serve cherries for babies

6–9 months

• Pureed cherries
• Finely minced cherries
• Mixed into yoghurt, porridge or chia pudding

9–12 months

• Pitted and finely chopped
• Pitted and quartered (lengthways to reduce round shape)
• Mixed into meals or served as part of a snack

12+ months

• Pitted and halved
• Pitted and quartered
• Lightly squashed pieces

Nutritional benefits of cherries for babies

Cherries contain vitamin C, antioxidants and fibre, which support immune health and digestion. They can be a great addition to a varied diet.

Easy ways to offer cherries

• Stir into yoghurt
• Add to porridge or overnight oats
• Mix into chia pudding
• Blend into smoothies
• Serve alongside other soft fruits

Frequently asked questions

Are cherries safe for babies?
Yes, when pitted and prepared appropriately for your baby’s age.

Are cherries an allergen?
No, cherries are not a common allergen and reactions are uncommon.

Can babies eat cherry skin?
Yes, as long as the cherries are soft and prepared appropriately.

When can babies eat whole cherries?
This is really dependent on age and skill level but not before the age of 3. From 3-4 years (when your toddler is ready) you can teach them to eat a cherry and spit the pit out. Model this for them first. Take a bite and show them the pit and explain that "we don't eat this part because it is very hard". Spit it out and then eat the cherry. Then, get them to do it with you to practice.

Expert tip

If you’re unsure, always cut cherries smaller than you think you need to. Reducing the round shape is one of the most important ways to lower choking risk.