Cherry Jam

Cherry jam is a beloved homemade delight that brings the vibrant, sweet flavor of cherries to your table. Perfect for spreading on toast, filling in cakes, or gifting to loved ones, this jam is easy to make and incredibly rewarding. Follow this simple guide to create your own delicious cherry jam and enjoy a taste of summer all year round.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cherry Jam

To make a batch of this delightful cherry jam, you will need:

• 2kg cherries, pitted (half roughly chopped, half halved)
• 1.2kg jam sugar (with added pectin)
• 2 lemons, juiced

These ingredients will yield around 4 x 450g jars of jam, perfect for sharing or storing.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cherry Jam

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Before you start, place two saucers in the freezer. These will be used later to test if your cherry jam has reached the right consistency.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large, heavy-based saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, jam sugar, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture well to ensure all the sugar dissolves.

Step 3: Cook the Jam

Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 35-50 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent the cherry jam from sticking to the bottom of the pan. The mixture will gradually thicken and become glossy.

Step 4: Test for Doneness

After 35 minutes, take one of the chilled saucers from the freezer and spoon a little of the jam onto it. Let it sit for a minute, then gently press your fingertip into the jam. If it wrinkles, the jam is ready. If it slides or is too runny, continue boiling the jam for another 10 minutes and test again with the second saucer.

Step 5: Jar the Jam

Once your cherry jam has reached the desired consistency, spoon it into sterilized jars while still hot. Seal the jars tightly and allow them to cool. Store unopened jars in a dark, cool place for up to six months. Opened jars should be kept in the fridge and consumed within three months.

Tips for the Best Cherry Jam

• Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor. Avoid overripe or bruised cherries as they can affect the taste and texture of the jam.
• Sterilize your jars properly before filling them with jam to prevent spoilage.
• Experiment with flavors by adding a touch of vanilla extract or a splash of your favorite liqueur to the cherry mixture during cooking.

Cherry jam is not only a delicious way to preserve the essence of cherries but also a versatile ingredient in many recipes. Whether you’re new to jam-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe will guide you to creating the perfect batch every time.