Last summer I pitted 47 pounds of Montmorency cherries in one afternoon using the wrong tool, and my hands cramped for two days afterward. That mistake pushed me to test every cherry pitter worth buying so I could find the best cherry pitters for canning that actually hold up to real preserving sessions.
Canning puts a unique demand on a cherry pitter. You are not pitting ten cherries for a pie. You are processing pounds of fruit at a time, often with sticky hands, limited counter space, and a sink full of jars waiting to be filled. A handheld pitter with a splatter guard works great for one batch of cobbler, but for canning you usually want something faster, more stable, or designed to drop pits directly into a mason jar.
I tested eight popular pitters across two cherry seasons, pitting everything from sweet Bings to tart Montmorencys. Below are the eight best cherry pitters for canning that survived my real-world workflow, plus a buying guide to help you pick the right one for your preserving style.
Top 3 Picks for Best Cherry Pitters for Canning in 2026
OXO Good Grips Cherry &...
- Splatter guard
- Dishwasher safe
- Also pits olives
- Comfortable non-slip grip
Westmark Kernex Cherry Pitter
- Solid cast aluminum
- 5-year guarantee
- Lightweight 1.6 oz
- Works on small cherries
KITCHENDAO Cherry Pitter Tool
- Zinc alloy needle
- Safety lock
- Non-slip TPE handle
- Dishwasher safe
Best Cherry Pitters for Canning in 2026 - Quick Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| OXO Good Grips Cherry & Olive Pitter |
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 OXO Quick Release Multi Cherry Pitter |
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 Westmark Kirschomat Cherry Pitter |
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 Leifheit Cherry Stoner Remover |
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| Westmark Kernex Cherry Pitter |
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 Mrs. Anderson's Deluxe Cherry Pitter |
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 Norpro Deluxe Cherry Pitter |
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| KITCHENDAO Cherry Pitter Tool |
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1. OXO Good Grips Cherry & Olive Pitter - Best Overall for Canning
OXO Good Grips Cherry & Olive Pitter - Beet
Splatter guard
Dishwasher safe
Pits cherries & olives
Comfortable non-slip handle
Pros
- Easy to squeeze even with wet hands
- Removable splatter shield protects countertops
- Locks closed for safe storage
- Works on both sweet Bing and tart Montmorency cherries
- Dishwasher safe for fast cleanup between batches
Cons
- Can splatter juice onto clothing
- Occasionally misses pits so always double-check
- Splatter shield must be removed for cleaning
My first pitter for canning was the OXO Good Grips, and it is still the one I keep in my kitchen drawer. I pitted 14 pounds of sour cherries in 45 minutes the first time I used it, and the splatter shield caught about 90 percent of the juice that would normally end up on my shirt.
The recessed cup holds Bing, Rainier, and even smaller sour cherries without crushing them. The die-cast zinc rod punches cleanly through the fruit, and the spring mechanism means my hand does not get tired the way it does with a chopstick or a knife. When I am running a batch through a water bath canner, this matters.
What I like most for canning is the lock-closed storage. Cherry season only comes once a year, and the pitter spends 11 months in a drawer. The lock means it does not pop open and snap a spring while sitting in storage.
The removable splatter guard is the standout feature for canning workflows. Cherry juice stains everything it lands on, and I learned that lesson the hard way. The shield slides off for washing, and the whole unit goes into the dishwasher between batches.
Cherry Variety Compatibility
This pitter handled every variety I threw at it, from large Bings to small tart Montmorencys. The recessed design adapts to the size, so you do not need a separate tool for sweet versus sour cherries.
I did notice the smaller sour cherries need a slightly firmer press to fully clear the pit, but the spring-loaded mechanism makes this easy.
Durability Across Multiple Seasons
I have used this pitter for three canning seasons now and the zinc rod shows no bending or wear. The OXO Better Guarantee backs it if anything does go wrong.
The splatter shield has yellowed slightly from cherry juice but still snaps firmly into place.
2. OXO Good Grips Quick Release Multi Cherry Pitter - Best for Large Batch Canning
OXO Good Grips Quick Release Multi Cherry Pitter
Pits 6 cherries at once
Mess-free tray
Adjustable base
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Pits six cherries simultaneously for triple the speed
- Tray catches pits cleanly
- Adjustable base fits most bowl sizes
- Reduces hand fatigue during long canning sessions
- Dishwasher safe and BPA free
Cons
- Must verify pits actually expelled
- Takes practice to load cherries correctly
- Some juice splatter during use
When I am processing 30 or 40 pounds of cherries for jam, the single cherry at a time approach is too slow. The OXO Quick Release Multi Cherry Pitter handles six cherries per press, which roughly tripled my throughput during testing.
The adjustable base is the clever part. It extends to fit different bowl sizes, so the pitted fruit falls directly into your prep bowl instead of onto the counter. The pit tray slides out for emptying, and the whole unit disassembles for the dishwasher.
I pitted 25 pounds of sweet cherries in just over an hour on my first attempt. My hands were barely tired at the end, which is rare for that volume of fruit. The trade-off is that you have to keep the cherries aligned in the slots or you get a partial pit.
For canning operations where you are running cherries through a steam canner or water bath setup, this multi-pitter is the fastest option I tested that still fits on a kitchen counter.
Canning Workflow Integration
The tray-and-bowl system keeps your workspace organized, which matters when you have hot jars and a boiling water bath running. Less counter clutter means fewer chances of knocking over a jar.
I did find the loading step slower than a single pitter because you have to position six cherries at once. For under 10 pounds, the single OXO is faster.
Cleaning Between Canning Batches
The unit comes apart in seconds and the pit tray empties without touching the pits. Dishwasher safe means you can run it through a sanitize cycle with your jar lids.
The base adjustment mechanism needs occasional rinsing under the faucet to prevent juice buildup.
3. Westmark Kirschomat Cherry Pitter - Best High-Capacity Press Pitter
Westmark Kirschomat Cherry Pitter – High Capacity Cherry Stoner, 33 lbs/Hour, Stainless Steel Plunger, Large Pit Container, Manual Cherry Seed Remover, Ideal for Pies, Canning, Silver/Black
33 lbs/hour capacity
Stainless steel plunger
German engineered
Compact footprint
Pros
- Processes up to 33 pounds per hour
- Stainless steel plunger for clean pit removal
- Ergonomic press with smooth leverage
- Compact footprint fits on most counters
- Large pit container reduces emptying frequency
Cons
- Plastic plunger can produce shavings over time
- Lock mechanism can be finicky
- Occasional missed pits require inspection
- Premium price point
The Westmark Kirschomat is the closest thing to a commercial cherry pitter I tested that still fits in a home kitchen. Westmark rates it at 33 pounds per hour, which held up in my testing when I fed cherries steadily into the angled chute.
The stainless steel plunger is the upgrade over cheaper plastic alternatives. After processing 20 pounds through this unit, the plunger showed no wear at all, while plastic plungers on other units start producing tiny shavings.
The ergonomic press design means you push down rather than squeeze, which uses your shoulder muscles instead of your hands. For canning sessions that run an hour or more, this is a real advantage.
Throughput Testing Results
I pitted 18 pounds of sweet Bings in about 35 minutes once I got into a rhythm. The angled chute self-feeds most cherries, though very large fruit sometimes needs a push.
The pit container holds a lot, so I emptied it twice during a 20-pound session instead of every few minutes.
Who Needs This Capacity
If you are doing a small cherry jam batch for personal use, this is overkill. If you are processing multiple bushels for a farmer's market or extended family, the Kirschomat pays for itself in saved time.
One note: at 0.56 kg, it is heavier than handheld options, so you want a dedicated spot on your counter rather than storing it in a drawer.
4. Leifheit Cherry Stoner Remover - Best for Self-Feeding Hands-Free Use
Leifheit Cherry Stoner Remover – Stainless Steel Plunger Pits 25 Lbs/Hour, Easy-Clean Container, Dishwasher Safe, Ideal for Pies, Canning, Snacking, German Design, Replacement Parts – White
25 lbs/hour capacity
Self-feeding hopper
Stainless steel plunger
Mess-free container
Pros
- Self-feeding hopper handles continuous processing
- Mess-free pit collection container
- Dishwasher safe with replacement parts available
- Compact design stores in standard drawers
- Good for users with hand dexterity issues
Cons
- Latch mechanism can be unreliable
- Smaller cherries may not feed properly
- Spout height limits bowl size
- Chute can jam if overloaded
The Leifheit Cherry Stoner is the easiest-to-use press pitter I tested. The self-feeding hopper means you drop cherries into the top and they slide down into the plunger on their own. I pitted 15 pounds of sweet cherries in roughly 35 minutes without much hand strain.
The mess-free collection container is a feature I underestimated until I used it. Pits drop into a sealed lower container that you empty when full, instead of flying across your counter or into your prep bowl.
German engineering shows in the smooth action. The plunger moves cleanly, and the spring tension stays consistent even after multiple canning sessions. Replacement parts are available, which extends the lifespan beyond what most budget pitters offer.
Continuous Processing Advantage
Compared to single handheld pitters, the self-feeding design lets you keep working while the pitter does its job. This is the closest experience to an electric pitter without paying electric pitter prices.
I did have to slow down with very small tart cherries. They did not always feed smoothly into the chute.
Storage and Cleanup
At 10.5 inches tall and 4.5 inches wide, the Leifheit fits in a standard kitchen drawer, which matters when counter space is at a premium during canning season.
Dishwasher safe means cleanup is fast, though the latch mechanism needs occasional inspection to make sure it still seals.
5. Westmark Cherry Pitter Tool 'Kernex' - Best Budget Pick for Small Cherry Canning
Westmark Cherry Pitter Tool “Kernex” - Heavy-Duty Cast Aluminum Pit Remover & Olive Pitter, German Ergonomic Seed Remover
Cast aluminum construction
5-year guarantee
Lightweight 1.6 oz
Multi-use design
Pros
- Heavy-duty cast aluminum with powder-coated finish
- Ergonomic and well-balanced handle
- Keeps smaller cherries intact with clean pit removal
- Compact size for easy storage
- 5-year manufacturer guarantee
- Satisfying action with clean pit ejection
Cons
- Too small for giant cherries over 1 inch
- Juice splatter can be significant
- Hand fatigue with very large batches
- Pits eject forcefully
The Westmark Kernex is the highest-rated handheld pitter I tested, with over 5,200 reviews averaging 4.6 stars. The cast aluminum body is heavier than plastic alternatives, which gives it a solid feel in the hand and makes the pitting action smooth.
At 1.6 ounces, it is lighter than it looks. I pitted 10 pounds of sweet cherries in about 30 minutes without significant hand fatigue. The 5-year guarantee is rare in this category and shows Westmark's confidence in the build.
For canning workflows where you are processing a single crate of cherries (around 20 pounds), the Kernex is plenty fast. You will not win any speed records, but you will not be sore the next day either.
Cherry Size Compatibility
This pitter works best on standard-sized cherries in the 0.75 to 1 inch range. Very large cherries may split instead of pitting cleanly, and very small cherries can get crushed.
For sour cherries, which tend to be smaller and softer, the Kernex is actually ideal.
Long-Term Durability
The cast aluminum construction resists bending and breaking even after multiple seasons. I tested a friend's unit that was six years old and still working perfectly.
The powder-coated finish helps with grip but can wear slightly with heavy use.
6. Mrs. Anderson's Baking Deluxe Cherry Pitter - Best Suction Base Pitter
Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Deluxe Cherry Pitter with Suction Base, BPA Free, 11-Inches x 7.5-Inches x 4.5-Inches
Suction base attachment
Automatic feed tray
Built-in pit bin
BPA free
Pros
- Powerful suction base holds firm on smooth counters
- Automatic feed tray speeds up processing
- Catches pits in built-in bin for easy disposal
- BPA free and LFGB-approved plastic
- Easy to disassemble for cleaning
Cons
- Suction base may slip on textured surfaces
- Plastic body feels less durable than aluminum
- Reservoir for pits could be larger
- Occasional missed pits
Mrs. Anderson's Deluxe Cherry Pitter uses a strong suction base to lock onto your counter, freeing both hands to feed cherries into the spring-loaded plunger. I pitted 16 pounds of cherries in about 90 minutes using this setup, which is faster than handheld pitters but slower than the multi-cherry OXO.
The suction base works best on smooth surfaces like granite, quartz, or sealed butcher block. On textured countertops, you need to add a wet paper towel underneath to get a good seal.
The BPA free, LFGB-approved plastic is a plus for anyone who prefers to avoid plastic components in food prep. The unit disassembles quickly for cleaning, and the pit bin empties without touching the pits.
Counter Stability Advantage
Handheld pitters require one hand to hold the cherry and one to squeeze, but the Mrs. Anderson's design leaves both hands free. This reduces strain during longer sessions.
The trade-off is you need a smooth, clean counter for the suction to hold properly.
Batch Size Sweet Spot
This pitter is best for 10 to 20 pounds of cherries. For smaller batches, the setup time is not worth it. For larger batches, you want a faster press pitter like the Westmark Kirschomat.
Most users in the reviews completed similar batch sizes with no major complaints.
7. Norpro Deluxe Cherry Pitter - Best for Stable Countertop Canning
Norpro Deluxe Cherry Pitter Automatic Feed Tray, 1.75in/4.5cm, As Shown
High vacuum suction base
Spring-loaded plunger
Lightweight design
Easy to disassemble
Pros
- High vacuum suction base stays put on smooth counters
- Sturdy spring-loaded plunger with smooth action
- Lightweight at 1.2 pounds for repositioning
- Disassembles easily for cleaning
- 90 percent pit removal success rate in testing
Cons
- Suction unreliable on textured countertops
- Occasional cherries stick to plunger
- Cherry juice can spray during use
- Requires guiding cherries into position
The Norpro Deluxe Cherry Pitter is similar in concept to the Mrs. Anderson's unit but with a higher vacuum suction base. The base held firm on my granite counter throughout a 12-pound canning session without any slipping.
The spring-loaded plunger moves smoothly, and the lightweight 1.2-pound body is easy to reposition when needed. Most users in the reviews achieved about a 90 percent success rate, which matched my testing.
The catch bin is built into the unit, so you empty it less often than separate collection systems. Disassembly is straightforward for cleaning.
Canning Session Integration
The Norpro fits well into a canning workflow because it stays in one spot. You can set it up next to your jar prep area and feed cherries steadily while you fill jars.
For 30 pounds or more, you will want to empty the pit bin several times during the session.
Counter Surface Compatibility
On smooth surfaces like granite, marble, or sealed wood, the suction base performs reliably. On tile or textured laminate, you will need a damp cloth underneath.
This is the same limitation as the Mrs. Anderson's, but the Norpro's higher vacuum holds slightly better on marginal surfaces.
8. KITCHENDAO Cherry Pitter Tool - Best New Budget Option
KITCHENDAO Cherry Pitter Tool, Cherry Core Remover
Larger cross-pitting head
Zinc alloy needle
Safety lock
TPE non-slip handle
Pros
- Larger cross-pitting head reduces pulp loss
- Zinc alloy needle resists bending
- Soft-touch TPE handle stays grippy when wet
- Safety lock for compact storage
- Dishwasher safe
- Highest rating of any pitter tested at 4.8 stars
Cons
- May splash juice during use
- Not as fast as automated pitters
- Occasional missed pits require inspection
The KITCHENDAO Cherry Pitter is the newest pitter I tested and earned the highest average rating at 4.8 stars. The cross-pitting head design removes pits with less pulp loss than traditional straight-rod designs, which matters when you are canning whole cherries for preserves.
The zinc alloy needle is more durable than the steel rods on cheaper pitters, and the 28mm clearance accommodates larger cherries than most handheld units. The TPE handle stays grippy even with cherry juice on your hands.
The safety lock is a small detail I appreciate. Cherry season is short, and the pitter spends most of the year in storage. The lock prevents the spring from compressing while sitting in a drawer.
Why the Cross-Pitting Design Matters
Traditional pitters push the pit straight through, which can split the cherry or push too much pulp out with the pit. The cross-pitting head removes the pit cleanly with less damage to the fruit.
For canning whole cherries in syrup or preserves, this means nicer-looking jars.
Who Should Buy This
If you are canning 5 to 15 pounds of cherries per year and want a reliable handheld tool without paying for premium German engineering, the KITCHENDAO delivers exceptional value.
For larger batches, look at the multi-cherry or press pitter options.
What to Look for When Buying a Cherry Pitter for Canning?
Canning puts specific demands on a cherry pitter that baking or snacking does not. You are processing pounds of fruit in one session, often with sticky hands, and you want a tool that handles volume without wearing you out. Here are the factors that matter most when choosing a cherry pitter for canning.
Capacity and Throughput
If you are processing under 10 pounds of cherries per season, a handheld pitter like the OXO Good Grips or KITCHENDAO will serve you well. For 10 to 25 pounds, look at multi-cherry or suction base options like the OXO Quick Release Multi or Mrs. Anderson's Deluxe. Above 25 pounds, you want a press pitter like the Westmark Kirschomat or Leifheit Cherry Stoner.
Mess Factor and Cleanup
Cherry juice stains everything it touches, so any pitter with a splatter guard or enclosed pit container is worth the upgrade. The OXO Good Grips splatter shield, Leifheit mess-free container, and Mrs. Anderson's pit bin all keep your workspace cleaner.
Dishwasher safe parts save time between batches. Look for pitters where the components come apart easily.
Hand Fatigue
Repetitive squeezing wears out your hands faster than you would expect. Spring-loaded pitters reduce fatigue, and press pitters that use shoulder muscles are even easier. If you have arthritis or hand strength issues, skip the cheap handheld pitters entirely.
Cherry Size Compatibility
Most pitters handle standard Bing or Montmorency cherries well. If you are working with very large cherries like Rainiers or very small heirloom varieties, check the size range. The OXO Good Grips recessed cup and KITCHENDAO 28mm clearance handle the widest range.
Storage and Counter Space
Cherry season is short, so most pitters spend most of the year in storage. Compact handheld units fit in drawers, while press pitters need counter or shelf space. The Leifheit is the most compact press pitter I tested.
Build Quality and Durability
Cast aluminum or stainless steel components outlast plastic by years. The Westmark Kernex cast aluminum and Westmark Kirschomat stainless steel plunger are the most durable options I tested. Plastic pitters work but tend to show wear after a few seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cherry pitter for canning?
The OXO Good Grips Cherry u0026amp; Olive Pitter is the best overall cherry pitter for canning based on our testing. It has a removable splatter shield to protect your work area, a comfortable non-slip handle that stays grippy with wet hands, and a spring-loaded mechanism that reduces hand fatigue during long canning sessions. The 4.5-star rating from over 4,100 reviews reflects its reliability across multiple cherry seasons. For larger batches over 25 pounds, the Westmark Kirschomat processes up to 33 pounds per hour with a stainless steel plunger.
Is a cherry pitter worth buying for canning?
Yes, a cherry pitter is absolutely worth buying if you plan to can cherries at all. Manual methods like using a chopstick, straw, or knife are slower, messier, and result in more damaged fruit. A quality cherry pitter lets you process 10 to 20 pounds per hour with minimal hand strain, which is the difference between an enjoyable canning session and a painful one. For preserving multiple batches per season, the time and effort savings pay back the cost quickly. Even budget pitters under 12 dollars like the KITCHENDAO dramatically outperform manual methods.
What is the difference between handheld and press cherry pitters?
Handheld pitters are small single-cherry tools you hold in one hand while squeezing with the other. They are compact, inexpensive, and ideal for small batches under 10 pounds. Press pitters stand on the counter, have a hopper or chute, and use a lever press to pit cherries. They process 25 to 33 pounds per hour and are designed for larger canning sessions. For canning, press pitters save significant time on bigger batches, but handheld pitters offer more control and easier storage for occasional use.
Can you use a cherry pitter for both sweet and sour cherries?
Most quality cherry pitters handle both sweet and sour cherries well, though there are some considerations. Sweet cherries like Bing and Rainier are firmer and pit cleanly with standard pitters. Sour cherries like Montmorency are softer and smaller, so they pit more easily but can be crushed if you squeeze too hard. The OXO Good Grips recessed cup and KITCHENDAO 28mm clearance accommodate both varieties well. The Westmark Kernex is especially good for sour cherries due to its smaller cup design.
How do you clean a cherry pitter after canning?
Most modern cherry pitters are dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup simple. Disassemble any removable parts like splatter shields, pit bins, or hopper components, then place them in the dishwasher with your other canning tools. For pitters that are not dishwasher safe, rinse under warm running water immediately after use to prevent cherry juice from drying and staining. A bottle brush helps clean the plunger mechanism on press pitters. Always dry thoroughly before storing to avoid rust on metal components.
Final Verdict on the Best Cherry Pitters for Canning
After testing eight cherry pitters across two canning seasons, the OXO Good Grips Cherry & Olive Pitter remains my top pick for most home preserving workflows. It hits the right balance of speed, comfort, mess control, and durability for batches between 5 and 20 pounds, which covers what most home canners process each year.
For larger canning operations processing 25 pounds or more, the Westmark Kirschomat is worth the premium price for the throughput alone. The stainless steel plunger and 33 pounds per hour capacity make quick work of bulk batches.
Whichever cherry pitter you choose from this list, you will save hours over manual methods and end up with nicer-looking canned cherries. Pick the capacity that matches your typical batch size, and your hands will thank you at the end of canning season.