Description
This recipe guides you through making delicious homemade cherry jam, perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or using in desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted (about 2 pounds)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries: Wash and pit the cherries. You can use a cherry pitter or a small knife.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir well to ensure the sugar starts to dissolve.
- Cook the Jam: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar is completely dissolved. Then, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Test for Doneness: After about 15-20 minutes of boiling, the jam should start to thicken. To test for doneness, place a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes. Drop a small amount of jam onto the cold plate. Let it cool for a moment. If the jam wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready. If not, continue boiling and testing every few minutes.
- Add Extract (Optional): If using almond extract, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
- Remove Foam: Skim off any foam that forms on the surface of the jam during cooking.
- Can the Jam (Optional): If you plan to can the jam for longer storage, prepare your jars and lids according to canning instructions. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids, and screw on the bands. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Cool and Store: Let the jam cool completely before storing. If not canning, store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks. Canned jam can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Notes
- For a smoother jam, you can use a food mill or immersion blender to partially puree the cherries after they have softened.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste. Some people prefer less sugar, but sugar is essential for the jam’s setting properties.
- Be careful when working with hot sugar; it can cause burns.
- Always use clean jars and utensils to prevent spoilage.
- Prep Time: PT20M
- Cook Time: PT30M
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Carbohydrates: 13g