Easy Homemade Cherry Jam Recipe
Last summer I ended up with more fresh cherries from our harvest than we could possibly eat. So, instead of letting them go to waste, I decided to make this easy homemade cherry jam recipe.
Table of Contents
Homemade Cherry Jam Recipe Ingredients
- 1kg fresh cherries, pitted
- 500-700g pectin sugar (depending on how sweet your cherries are)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (juice of one big lemon)
Tools Needed to Make Homemade Cherry Jam
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Homemade Cherry Jam Recipe Method
Easy Homemade Cherry Jam
- Total Time: 60
- Yield: 4 jars 1x
Description
A simple, small-batch cherry jam made with fresh garden cherries, capturing the taste of summer in every jar.
Ingredients
- 1kg fresh cherries, pitted
- 500–700g pectin sugar (depending on how sweet your cherries are)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (juice of one big lemon)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cherries:
Wash and pit the cherries, then roughly chop if you prefer a smoother texture.
-
Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice to a large heavy-bottomed pot. Stir together and let sit 10-15 minutes so the cherries release their juices.
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Cook the Jam:
Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Skim off any foam that forms.
-
Let It Thicken:
Simmer for 25-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until a spoonful on a cold plate wrinkles when pushed.
-
Fill the Jars:
Pour the hot jam into hot sterilized jars and seal immediately.
Notes
Tips: Sweet cherries create a softer, sweeter jam, while sour cherries add a brighter, tangier flavor. A tiny splash of almond extract pairs beautifully with cherries. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Jams & Jellys
- Cuisine: Swiss
Homemade Cherry Jam Video
Tips for the Best Cherry Jam
- Sweet cherries create a softer, sweeter jam.
- Sour cherries add a brighter, tangier flavor.
- A tiny splash of almond extract pairs beautifully with cherries.
- The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Use a cherry pitter tool to speed up pitting.
Ways to Enjoy Cherry Jam
This homemade cherry jam is incredibly versatile. Some favorite ways to use it:
- Spread on homemade sourdough bread
- Swirled into yogurt
- Spoon over pancakes or waffles
- Added to cheesecake or desserts
- Layered into cakes
- Paired with soft cheeses on a snack board
How Long Can You Store Homemade Cherry Jam?
Stored in a cool cellar, this jam keeps well over a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a few weeks. Make sure the jars have sealed properly before storing.
