As the sun shines down and summer creates its vibrant tapestry of colors, what could be better than the taste of homemade cherry jam?
This sweet spread can elevate your breakfast toast and make even your plain yogurt feel like a gourmet dessert. Picture drizzling it on pancakes or using it as a filling for pastries — the possibilities are endless. But beyond just sweetness, this recipe is easy.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a wonderful way to capture summer’s essence and enjoy all year round.
Why This Recipe is Great for You
Let me share why I’m excited about this cherry jam. First off, it’s incredibly simple to make. Seriously, if I can do it, so can you. There’s nothing complex about the process. All it requires are a handful of ingredients and a little bit of your time.
Once it’s done, you can enjoy the delicious burst of cherry flavor alongside multiple dishes.
Being a registered dietitian, I appreciate recipes that are both tasty and healthy. Sweet cherries are not just delicious; they’re packed with antioxidants and vitamins that do wonders for your health.
They promote sleep, help reduce inflammation, and boost heart health. With this jam, you’re indulging your sweet tooth while offering your body some nutrients as well.
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients. Every element plays a part in creating a balanced and delightful flavor profile.
Growing up, I always loved the juicy cherries bursting with sweetness. My grandmother used to make cherry pies, and I find that making jam evokes those wonderful childhood memories.
Ingredients List
To make this delicious cherry jam, you’ll need the following:
- 1 cup of white granulated sugar
- 2 ½ cups of halved and pitted fresh or frozen sweet cherries
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon of almond extract
How to Make Easy Cherry Jam
Now, let’s dive into the steps. Making cherry jam is straightforward and fun. Here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you jump in, ensure your workspace is tidy. Gather your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a pot, measuring cups, a spoon for stirring, and jars for storing your jam later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherries
Start by washing your cherries thoroughly. If you’re using fresh cherries, pit them first and halve them. If they’re frozen, simply let them thaw for a little while. There’s something so comforting about working with fresh fruit. The bright red color alone is inviting.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients in the Pot
In your pot, combine the halved cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. The sugar will help draw out the cherries’ natural juices. Stir everything gently and let this mixture sit for about 30 minutes. You’ll notice how the cherries release their wonderful juices and form a beautiful syrup.
Step 4: Cook the Mixture
After the cherries have released their juice, heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking. Once it reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This part is crucial — it’s where the magic happens!
You’ll see the mixture thicken as it cooks. This is the time to add the vanilla and almond extracts. They will add layers of flavor that take this jam to the next level.
Step 5: Test the Consistency
To check if your jam has reached the right consistency, place a small amount on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it’s ready to be jarred. If not, give it a few more minutes.
Step 6: Pour into Jars
Once it’s good to go, pour the jam into sterilized jars. Make sure to leave some space at the top since it will expand a little when cooled. You can seal them with lids while they’re still hot.
Recipe Notes
- Cherries: Sweet cherries are the star here. They offer a delightful sweetness and vibrant color. You can use frozen cherries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just ensure they’re pitted first.
- Sugar: Granulated white sugar works well to balance the tartness of the cherries. You can adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and helps with preservation. It balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: This ingredient deepens the flavor profile.
- Almond Extract: Just a smidgen of almond extract adds a nutty warmth that complements the cherries perfectly.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative! This cherry jam recipe is versatile. Here are some variations you can try:
- Berry Fusion: Mix in some strawberries or raspberries for a berry medley jam.
- Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to introduce warmth.
- Bittersweet Contrast: Experiment with the addition of a little balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
Easy Cherry Jam Recipe
Equipment
- pot
Ingredients
- 1 cup of white granulated sugar
- 2 ½ cups of halved and pitted fresh or frozen sweet cherries
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon of almond extract
Instructions
- Before you jump in, ensure your workspace is tidy. Gather your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a pot, measuring cups, a spoon for stirring, and jars for storing your jam later.
- Start by washing your cherries thoroughly. If you’re using fresh cherries, pit them first and halve them. If they’re frozen, simply let them thaw for a little while. There’s something so comforting about working with fresh fruit. The bright red color alone is inviting.
- In your pot, combine the halved cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. The sugar will help draw out the cherries’ natural juices. Stir everything gently and let this mixture sit for about 30 minutes. You’ll notice how the cherries release their wonderful juices and form a beautiful syrup.
- After the cherries have released their juice, heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking. Once it reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This part is crucial — it’s where the magic happens!
- You’ll see the mixture thicken as it cooks. This is the time to add the vanilla and almond extracts. They will add layers of flavor that take this jam to the next level.
- To check if your jam has reached the right consistency, place a small amount on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it’s ready to be jarred. If not, give it a few more minutes.
- Once it’s good to go, pour the jam into sterilized jars. Make sure to leave some space at the top since it will expand a little when cooled. You can seal them with lids while they’re still hot.
Notes
- Cherries: Sweet cherries are the star here. They offer a delightful sweetness and vibrant color. You can use frozen cherries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just ensure they’re pitted first.
- Sugar: Granulated white sugar works well to balance the tartness of the cherries. You can adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and helps with preservation. It balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: This ingredient deepens the flavor profile.
- Almond Extract: Just a smidgen of almond extract adds a nutty warmth that complements the cherries perfectly.
Nutrition
FAQs
Conclusion
Making homemade cherry jam is not only a delightful activity, but it also allows you to savor summer’s sweetness year-round. This simple recipe will have you creating a tasty treat that is both versatile and healthy.
Whether you use it as a spread, a topping, or an ingredient in your favorite dessert, the flavorful cherry jam will surely please your taste buds.
I hope you give this easy cherry jam a try and share it with your friends and family. They’ll be asking how you created such a masterpiece that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Now, let’s get cooking! Happy jam-making!
