The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over my kitchen as I prepared to dive into the delightful world of homemade preserves. The moment I opened a jar of fresh cherry jam, the intoxicating aroma of ripe cherries enveloped me like a cozy blanket, promising sweetness and nostalgia. If you’ve ever tasted a spoonful of cherry jam fresh from the pot, you know what I mean. Rhubarb chutney for cheese boards Refreshing rhubarb lemonade That vibrant ruby-red hue, the tantalizing balance of sweetness and tartness—it’s like summer captured in a jar. Now, let me take you on an adventure through my favorite fresh cherry jam recipe that’ll have your taste buds dancing!
Picture this: It’s a lazy Sunday morning, and you’re slathering that luscious cherry jam on warm toast while sipping coffee. Maybe it’s an afternoon picnic with friends or a family barbecue where you surprise everyone with homemade goodies. Rhubarb galette with almond crust Trust me; this fresh cherry jam recipe is not just for breakfast—it’s versatile enough to elevate any meal or snack time!
Why You'll Love This Fresh cherry jam recipe
- This amazing Fresh cherry jam recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Fresh cherry jam recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Fresh cherry jam recipe:
- Fresh Cherries: Choose ripe, juicy cherries for the best flavor; they should be plump and vibrant in color.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar works best to balance the tartness of the cherries and help with preservation.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds acidity that enhances flavor while acting as a natural preservative.
- Pectin: Optional, but adding pectin can help achieve that perfect jelly-like consistency if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Fresh cherry jam recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Fresh cherry jam recipe:
Step 1: Prepare Your Cherries
Start by washing your fresh cherries thoroughly under cold water. Remove stems and pits—you could use a cherry pitter if you’re fancy or just get creative with your knife skills.
Step 2: Mash Them Up
In a large mixing bowl, mash your cherries using a potato masher or fork until they reach your desired consistency—chunky for more texture or smooth for that silky spread.
Step 3: Mix in Sugar and Lemon Juice
Transfer those mashed cherries into a saucepan and stir in sugar (about one cup for every four cups of mashed cherries) along with the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve.
Step 4: Cook It Down
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring everything to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens—this usually takes about 20-30 minutes. If using pectin, follow package directions at this point.
Step 5: Check Consistency
To test if it’s ready, drop a spoonful onto a cold plate; if it holds its shape after cooling briefly in the fridge, you’re good to go! If not, keep cooking for another few minutes.
Step 6: Jar It Up
Once thickened to perfection, pour your hot cherry jam into sterilized jars while it’s still hot—be careful not to burn yourself! Seal them tightly and allow them to cool at room temperature before refrigerating.
Serve this fresh cherry jam in all sorts of delicious ways—on toast, drizzled over yogurt, or even as an unexpected topping on grilled meats! Trust me; once you try making your own fresh cherry jam recipe, store-bought varieties will never taste quite as good again!
You Must Know About Fresh cherry jam recipe
- This amazing Fresh cherry jam recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Fresh cherry jam recipe Cooking Process
Start by washing and pitting your fresh cherries, then mash them slightly to release their juices. Next, cook the cherries in a pot over medium heat, adding sugar and lemon juice. Stir occasionally until it thickens, ensuring every drop of sweet goodness is captured.
Add Your Touch to Fresh cherry jam recipe
Feel free to swap out some of the sugar with honey for a twist on sweetness. You can also add spices like cinnamon or vanilla for extra depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a splash of bourbon to create a unique flavor profile. For more inspiration, check out this cinnamon pear crumble recipe.
Storing & Reheating Fresh cherry jam recipe
Once cooled, store your fresh cherry jam in sterilized jars and refrigerate for up to three weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it in airtight containers. Reheat gently on low heat while stirring if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Fresh cherry jam recipe
- This amazing Fresh cherry jam recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Using fresh cherries will give you the best taste; frozen ones may not yield the same vibrant color or texture. Also, don’t skip the lemon juice; it balances sweetness beautifully and helps with preservation! Lastly, be patient while cooking; rushing may lead to burnt flavors instead of that delightful fruity essence.
I remember the first time I made this fresh cherry jam recipe for a family gathering; everyone went crazy over it! They kept asking for more, and now it’s a staple at all our get-togethers!
FAQs About Fresh cherry jam recipe
What is Fresh cherry jam recipe?
A fresh cherry jam recipe combines ripe cherries, sugar, and lemon juice to create a delicious spread. This homemade jam captures the essence of summer, offering a burst of flavor with every spoonful. The process involves cooking the cherries until they break down and release their juices, which meld with the sugar to form a thick, sweet mixture. Rhubarb upside down cake It’s perfect for spreading on toast or using in desserts. Making your own cherry jam allows you to control the sweetness and enjoy a fresh product free from preservatives.
How do I make Fresh cherry jam?
Making fresh cherry jam is simple and enjoyable. Start by washing and pitting your cherries, then chop them into smaller pieces. Combine the cherries with sugar and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture reaches a boil. Cook it for about 20-30 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal immediately. Allow it to cool before storing in the fridge or pantry for later use.
Can I use frozen cherries for Fresh cherry jam recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries for your fresh cherry jam recipe! Frozen cherries work well because they retain much of their flavor and texture once thawed. Simply allow the cherries to defrost completely before using them in your recipe. You may need to adjust the sugar slightly, as frozen fruit can sometimes be sweeter than fresh fruit due to concentrated flavors during freezing.
How long does Fresh cherry jam last?
When properly stored, fresh cherry jam can last up to one year in a sealed jar if kept in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it’s best to refrigerate the jar and consume the jam within three weeks for optimal freshness and taste. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, like off smells or mold growth, to ensure your homemade treat is safe to enjoy.
Conclusion for Fresh cherry jam recipe
In summary, a fresh cherry jam recipe is an excellent way to preserve summer flavors year-round. By using simple ingredients like ripe cherries, sugar, and lemon juice, you can create a delicious spread that enhances many dishes. Remember that homemade jams are free from preservatives and allow you to customize sweetness levels according to your preference. Enjoy making this delightful treat at home; it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Fresh Cherry Jam
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings (1 jar) 1x
Description
Fresh cherry jam is a vibrant, homemade delight that encapsulates the essence of summer in every jar. Bursting with the bold flavors of ripe cherries, balanced by just the right amount of sweetness from sugar and a hint of acidity from lemon juice, this simple recipe transforms your kitchen into a treasure trove of nostalgic flavors. Perfect for toast, desserts, or even as a unique topping for grilled meats, making your own cherry jam is not only satisfying but also allows you to enjoy fresh flavors year-round.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon pectin (optional for thicker consistency)
Instructions
- Wash and pit the cherries, then mash them to your desired consistency.
- In a saucepan, combine the mashed cherries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to dissolve the sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens (about 20-30 minutes).
- Test the consistency by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; if it holds shape after cooling briefly, it’s ready.
- Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and allow to cool before refrigerating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Preserve
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (20g)
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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