Calories in Cherries: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits

Cherries are a nutrient-dense stone fruit packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins that give them their deep red color. They are one of the few natural food sources of melatonin and are linked to reduced inflammation, better sleep, and faster post-exercise recovery.

Calories by serving size:

Sweet cherries (like Bing or Rainier) and tart cherries (like Montmorency) have slightly different nutrition profiles. Tart cherries are lower in sugar and higher in certain antioxidants, while sweet cherries are more commonly eaten fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a cup of cherries?

One cup of fresh sweet cherries (about 154 grams, with pits removed) contains approximately 97 calories. That serving provides 25 grams of carbohydrates, 20 grams of natural sugar, and 3.2 grams of fiber. Cherries also deliver 13% of your daily vitamin C.

Do cherries help with sleep?

Yes. Cherries, especially tart cherries, are one of the few natural food sources of melatonin — the hormone that regulates sleep. Studies have shown that drinking tart cherry juice can increase sleep duration by an average of 84 minutes and improve sleep quality. The melatonin and anthocyanins in cherries work together to support healthy sleep cycles.

Are cherries good for inflammation?

Cherries have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows that cherry consumption can reduce markers of inflammation such as C-reactive protein (CRP). Athletes who consume tart cherry juice before and after intense exercise report less muscle soreness and faster recovery. The anthocyanins in cherries work similarly to anti-inflammatory medications but without side effects.

What is the difference between sweet and tart cherries?

Sweet cherries (Bing, Rainier) have about 63 calories per 100 grams and are typically eaten fresh. Tart cherries (Montmorency) have about 50 calories per 100 grams, less sugar, and higher concentrations of anthocyanins and melatonin. Tart cherries are more commonly used for juice, dried products, and supplements aimed at reducing inflammation.

Are dried cherries healthy?

Dried cherries are nutrient-dense but significantly more calorie-dense than fresh. Dried sweet cherries contain about 325 calories per 100 grams compared to 63 for fresh — roughly five times more. Many commercial brands add sugar, which further increases the calorie count. If you choose dried cherries, look for unsweetened varieties and keep portions to about 2 tablespoons.