There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade cherry jam, especially when made with fresh, organic cherries. This recipe is perfect for those who have a bit of experience in the kitchen and are ready to take their jam-making skills to the next level. Let’s dive into the delightful process of creating a jar of cherry goodness!
Cherry Jam Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups of organic cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Equipment
- Standard large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Potato masher or fork
- Sterilized jars with lids
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries: Start by washing the organic cherries thoroughly. Pit and halve them, ensuring there are no stems or pits left.
- Cook the Cherries: Place the cherries in a large pot over medium heat. Use a potato masher or fork to crush the cherries slightly, releasing their juices.
- Add Sugar and Lemon Juice: Stir in the granulated sugar and lemon juice. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
- Add Vanilla Extract: If using, add the vanilla extract and stir well. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to the jam.
- Test for Doneness: To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s done. If not, continue to cook for a few more minutes and test again.
- Jar the Jam: Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal with lids and let cool at room temperature. Once cooled, store in the refrigerator.
Tips and Tricks
- Sterilizing Jars: Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to prevent any contamination. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
- Consistency Check: If your jam is too runny, continue to cook it down. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit of water to reach the desired consistency.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding a splash of almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Making cherry jam can be a rewarding experience, filling your kitchen with the sweet aroma of simmering cherries. Enjoy your homemade organic cherry jam on toast, in pastries, or even by the spoonful!
Share your creations! If you try this recipe, snap a photo and share it with us. We’d love to see your delicious results!
Happy Jam-Making!
