The Best Homemade Cherry Jam Recipe for Sweet Summer Spreads

Sweet summer memories bloom with this homemade cherry jam that captures sunshine in a jar.

Ripe cherries transform into a luscious spread through simple magic of cooking.

Kernels and stems vanish as fresh fruit simmers gently in copper pans.

Each spoonful whispers stories of orchard adventures and lazy afternoon picnics.

Crimson depths shimmer with natural sweetness, inviting you to savor pure fruit essence.

Smooth, rich preserves promise delightful moments spread across warm toast or swirled into morning yogurt.

Come discover how easy magic happens when fresh cherries meet gentle heat and love.

Creative Additions To Change Up Cherry Jam

• Low-Sugar Cherry Delight: Replace regular sugar with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit for a diabetic-friendly version, maintaining the same cooking process.
• Spiced Cherry Preserve: Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom during simmering to create a warm, aromatic flavor profile that complements the cherries.
• Boozy Cherry Spread: Incorporate a splash of bourbon or brandy during the final simmering stage to enhance the jam's depth and complexity.
• Pectin-Free Cherry Jam: Use chia seeds or apple pectin as a natural thickening agent instead of traditional pectin, creating a more rustic, homemade texture.

Cherry Jam Spread For Breakfast Ideas

• Sweet Breakfast Partner: Spread this luscious cherry jam on warm, buttered toast or freshly baked croissants for a delightful morning treat.
• Dessert Companion: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream, cheesecake, or use as a filling between cake layers to elevate your sweet creations.
• Cheese Board Enhancement: Pair with soft brie, aged cheddar, or goat cheese for a sophisticated appetizer that balances sweet and savory flavors.
• Breakfast Yogurt Boost: Swirl into Greek yogurt or mix with granola for a vibrant and fruity breakfast parfait that adds excitement to your morning routine.

Store Cherry Jam For Many Mornings Ahead

• Store homemade cherry jam in airtight glass jars in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks. Keep jars away from direct light and temperature fluctuations.
• Transfer cooled jam to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen cherry jam stays fresh for 6-12 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
• Use proper canning techniques with sterilized jars and lids. Process sealed jars in a water bath for 10-15 minutes. Properly canned jam can last 12-18 months in a cool, dark pantry.

FAQs

• How do I know when the cherry jam is cooked properly?

When you place a small amount of jam on a cold plate and it gels or wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it means the jam has reached the right consistency.

• Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, but reducing sugar might affect the jam’s texture and preservation. If you want less sugar, look for low-sugar pectin or use a specific reduced-sugar recipe designed to maintain proper consistency.

• Why do I need to add lemon juice?

Lemon juice helps the jam set by providing natural pectin and adds a bright flavor. It also helps preserve the jam’s color and prevents bacterial growth.

• Is it necessary to pit the cherries before making jam?

Absolutely. Removing the pits ensures a smooth texture and prevents potential choking hazards. Use a cherry pitter for quick and easy pit removal.

Homemade Cherry Jam With Pure Simple Flavor

• Quick Kitchen Magic: Whip up this delightful cherry jam with minimal ingredients and simple steps, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Flavor Booster: Spread this homemade jam on toast, mix into yogurt, or use as a delicious filling for pastries, adding a burst of fruity goodness to multiple dishes.
• Preserve Summer's Sweetness: Capture the vibrant taste of fresh cherries in a jar, allowing you to enjoy their rich flavor long after the season ends.
• Customizable Comfort: Easily adjust sweetness, add spices like cinnamon, or experiment with different extracts to create a personalized jam that reflects your unique taste preferences.

Must-Have Ingredients For Fresh Cherry Jam

• Cherries: Sweet and juicy stone fruits that provide the base flavor for the jam.

• Sugar: Helps to preserve the jam and creates a thick, sweet consistency.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps with the jam's natural setting process.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, complex undertone to the cherry flavor.

• Butter: Helps reduce foam and adds a subtle richness to the jam.

Simple Steps For Homemade Cherry Jam Jars

Step 1: Prep Fresh Cherries

Carefully wash the cherries and remove all pits by splitting them in half and extracting the seeds.

Discard the pits and set the cherry halves aside.

Step 2: Combine Cooking Ingredients

• Sugar
• Lemon juice

Step 3: Heat and Bubble

Place the pot on medium heat and stir the mixture gently.

Allow the cherries to break down and start bubbling, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Simmer and Develop Flavor

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer slowly.

Stir frequently and skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

Step 5: Enhance With Extras

• Vanilla extract
• Butter

These ingredients help smooth out the texture and reduce foam formation.

Step 6: Check Jam Consistency

Continue simmering until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.

To test readiness, drop a small amount on a chilled plate.

If it wrinkles when pushed and doesn’t run, the jam is perfect.

Step 7: Jar and Preserve

Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving a small space at the top.

Wipe the jar rims clean and secure with tight-fitting lids.

Step 8: Cool and Store

Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature.

Once cooled, store in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.

Tips To Perfect Homemade Cherry Jam Each Time

• Select ripe, dark-colored cherries without bruises for the best flavor and texture.
• Add a small pat of butter to minimize foam formation during cooking.
• Use the cold plate method by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate to test if it sets properly.
• Sterilize glass jars thoroughly before filling to prevent bacterial growth and extend shelf life.
• Stir in a splash of vanilla extract for a deeper, more complex taste profile.

Homemade cherry jam Recipe

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4.6 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Sweet summer cherries dance through this classic homemade cherry jam, delivering pure seasonal delight. Rich with natural fruit sweetness and a hint of lemon, you’ll savor each spoonful of this rustic preserve perfect for morning toast or elegant dessert garnishes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 kilogram (2 pounds) pitted cherries
• 400–500 grams (1 pound) white sugar

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Ingredient:

• 1 tablespoon butter

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Instructions

1. Carefully pit and halve fresh cherries, ensuring no stems or leaves remain.
2. Transfer cherries to a heavy-bottomed pot with thick base for even heat distribution.
3. Combine cherries with sugar and fresh lemon juice, gently mixing to coat evenly.
4. Heat the mixture over medium-high temperature, stirring consistently to prevent scorching.
5. Allow mixture to reach rapid boiling point, then reduce heat to medium-low for gentle simmering.
6. Continuously stir the jam, removing any white foam that accumulates on surface using a metal spoon.
7. Add vanilla extract and small piece of butter to enhance flavor and minimize foam formation.
8. Monitor jam’s consistency, cooking approximately 20-25 minutes until mixture thickens and coats back of spoon.
9. Perform gel test by placing small amount on chilled ceramic plate; jam should wrinkle when pushed with finger.
10. Carefully ladle piping hot jam into sanitized glass containers, leaving 1/4-inch headspace.
11. Secure lids tightly and allow jars to cool completely at room temperature.
12. Store sealed jam in refrigerator for optimal preservation, consuming within 3-4 weeks.

Notes

• Choose sweet, ripe cherries for the most intense flavor and natural sweetness in your jam.
• Use a candy thermometer to ensure precise jam consistency, aiming for 220°F (soft-ball stage) for perfect setting.
• Remove pits carefully to prevent any hard fragments in the final jam, using a cherry pitter for quick and safe removal.
• Reduce sugar content by using low-sugar pectin or swapping some sugar with natural sweeteners like honey for a healthier version.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 172
• Sugar: 42 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Fat: 0.5 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0.2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 0.5 g
• Cholesterol: 1 mg