Cherry Jam Makes A Perfectly Flavored Dessert Topping
Living in a small house on a commercial orchard for a couple of years was an adventure filled with learning and discovery, especially when it came to the cherry harvest. I remember strapping on a harness with a big silver bucket attached, feeling both excited and a little apprehensive as I climbed those tall ladders. The highest branches always seemed to hold the juiciest cherries, but reaching them was no easy feat. Balancing on the ladder, I’d carefully pick the fruit, each cherry gently being placed into the bucket. By the end of the day, my arms were tired, my hands were stained red, the bucket had been filled many times in order to fill the big wooden bin below. But the effort is always worth it with fresh fruit—there’s nothing quite like the taste of freshly picked cherries, especially when they’re turned into a rich, sweet jam which of course I would make! The smell of the bubbling fruit in the pot, the sight of the jars lined up and ready to be filled, and that satisfying pop of the lids as they sealed—all of it was part of the magic.
Did You Know?
Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and dietary fiber. They have been enjoyed for their flavor and health benefits since ancient times. The dark, sweet cherries and the tart red cherries both make excellent jams.
Yield: 5 cups (approximately 10 half-pint jars)
Traditional Cherry Jam
Ingredients:
- 4 cups pitted and mashed cherries
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) fruit pectin
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cherries:
Wash, pit, and mash the cherries. Measure 4 cups of mashed cherries into a large saucepan. -
Add Lemon Juice and Pectin:
Stir in the lemon juice and fruit pectin. Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly. -
Add Sugar:
Add the sugar all at once. Return the mixture to a boil and boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and skim off any foam. -
Fill Jars:
Ladle the hot jam into prepared, sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe jar rims and cover with lids. -
Process:
Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool. Check seals after 24 hours. Store in a cool, dark place.
Low-Sugar Cherry Jam
Ingredients:
- 4 cups pitted and mashed cherries
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) low-sugar pectin
Instructions:
Follow the same steps as the Traditional Cherry Jam, but gradually add the sugar during the cooking process.
Cherry Freezer Jam
Ingredients:
- 4 cups pitted and mashed cherries
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) instant fruit pectin
Instructions:
Follow the same steps as the Traditional Cherry Jam, but after mixing in the sugar and pectin, ladle the jam into freezer-safe containers. Store the jam in the freezer for up to a year.
Nutritional Information (Per Tablespoon):
- Traditional Cherry Jam: Calories: 50, Protein: 0g, Carbohydrates: 13g, Fat: 0g, Sugars: 12g
- Low-Sugar Cherry Jam: Calories: 25, Protein: 0g, Carbohydrates: 6g, Fat: 0g, Sugars: 5g
- Cherry Freezer Jam: Calories: 35, Protein: 0g, Carbohydrates: 9g, Fat: 0g, Sugars: 8g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Choosing Cherries: For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe cherries. Local farmers' markets often have the freshest options, and buying in bulk during peak season can save money.
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Sterilizing Jars: To ensure your jars are properly sterilized, boil them in water for at least 10 minutes before filling. This step is crucial for food safety.
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Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavor and helps the jam set. If you don't have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works just as well.
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Using a Food Processor: For a smoother texture, use a food processor to mash the cherries. Just be careful not to puree them completely; a bit of texture is desirable.
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Reducing Foam: A small pat of butter added to the boiling jam can help reduce foaming, making the process easier and the final product clearer.
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Testing for Set: To check if your jam is set, place a small amount on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it's ready.
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Storage Tips: Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator and use it within a month.
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Reuse and Recycle: Save money by reusing jars from store-bought products. Just ensure they are properly sterilized before use.
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Gift Idea: Homemade cherry jam makes a wonderful gift. Decorate the jars with ribbons and homemade labels for a personal touch.
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Experiment with Flavors: Add a twist to your cherry jam by incorporating other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, or spices like cinnamon or vanilla for a gourmet touch.
Let's Learn About The Different Varieties of Cherries
Cherries come in many varieties, each offering its unique flavor and texture. Sweet cherries, like Bing and Rainier, are often eaten fresh and make for a rich, flavorful jam. Tart cherries, such as Montmorency, are commonly used in baking and preserves because of their bright, tangy taste. Each variety has its own peak season, with sweet cherries typically available from late spring to mid-summer, and tart cherries a little later in the season. Whether you prefer the deep sweetness of Bing cherries or the sharp zing of Montmorency, understanding the different varieties can help you choose the best cherries for your jam-making adventures.